Policy Analysis on Clean Cooking in Malawi: Case of Improved Cookstoves

¹ Faculty of Applied Sciences, Physics and Biochemical Sciences Department, Malawi University of Business and Applied Sciences, Private Bag 303, Chichiri Blantyre 3
² Faculty of Science Technology and Innovation, Department of Energy Systems, Mzuzu University, Private Bag 201, Luwinga, Mzuzu 2
³ Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Mzuzu University, Private Bag 201, Luwinga, Mzuzu 2.

^* Corresponding author: tmlowa@poly.ac.mw, tmlowa@mubas.ac.mw
Chitawo.m@mzuni.ac.mw

Abstract

Transition from cooking with traditional biomass to clean cooking is a persistent challenge in Malawi. The underlying technologies in clean cooking are improved cookstove. Improved cook stoves are designed to reduce fuel consumption per meal and to curb smoke emissions experienced in traditional three-stone cookstove. However, promotion adoption and utilisation of clean cooking requires coordinated policy and regulatory framework. This study analysed the Malawi policy regulatory framework on clean cooking by benchmarking with relevant literature. The following policy gaps were identified: (i) the lack of clear cookstove rating by Malawi Bureau of Standards; (ii) uncomplimentary policies and regulations in the energy and forestry sectors on clean cooking fuels and technologies; (iii) the lack of empirical data on adoption and utilisation of clean cooking technologies and fuels in Malawi; (iv) predicaments in adopting and using international standards for testing cookstoves; and (v) the value chain of improved cookstoves and other forms of clean cooking fuels and technologies that is not adequately analysed. Coordinated development and harmonious implementation of clean cooking regulations in the key sectors of energy and forestry can promote adoption and utilisation of clean cooking methods and technologies in Malawi.