Hello, here is more about the Jiko Kenya and Nguvu Nyeusi stoves used in the Virunga National Park, popularised by Aide Kivu with the support of the Gorilla Organization.
So, how do you use one?
1. Open the door and direct the opening in the opposite way to the wind direction
2. Put a small quantity of charcoal into the stove
3. Light the fire in the usual way
4. Place the saucepan on the supports
5. After cooking, remove the embers and extinguish the fire (do not extinguish embers with water, but cover them with the saucepan or use mud or sand)
How can the stoves be used to the best effect for cooking?
Prepare the food to cook before actually lighting the fire to save energy. Calculate the correct amount of water to use to save water. Hard or dry foods (like beans) will need to be soaked in water for four hours in advance. You can use this same water for cooking to save further water.
Large food items will be cut in small pieces (meat, potatoes, sweet potatoes) to reduce the cooking time.
How are the stoves more economical?
The fire compartments are small and made of clay, a material which preserves the heat for a very long time. All of the heat is concentrated on the saucepan so heat is not lost into the atmosphere. The intensity of the heat can increased or reduced by adjusting the direction of the opening depending on the wind direction.
What are the advantages to Jiko Kenya or Nguvu Nyeusi stoves?
The amount of charcoal needed is much less than with other methods (a reduction of at least 55%). The length of cooking time is reduced. There is less danger from billowing smoke. Ashes can be collected and used for other things. The heat is not so dangerous because it is all directed towards the saucepan.
As well as these advantages in the home, the use of these fuel-efficient stoves also promotes the preservation of the forest and fights against global warming.
