SCI Participates in Landmark Clean Cooking in Africa Summit in Paris
Solar Cookers International (SCI) was invited to attend the Clean Cooking in Africa Summit on May 14, 2024, organized by the International Energy Agency (IEA) at the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Paris. This groundbreaking event aimed to create a transformative momentum for improving clean cooking access across Africa. According to the IEA, nearly 1 billion people in Africa cook using open fires and traditional stoves that burn wood, charcoal, and other harmful fuels. This practice has devastating effects on health, gender equality, and the environment, particularly impacting women and children.
The Summit, co-chaired by leaders from Tanzania and Norway, along with the African Development Bank and the IEA, mobilized an impressive USD 2.2 billion in pledges from both public and private sectors. Representatives from almost 60 countries and over 1,000 delegates convened to commit resources to this critical issue. President Emmanuel Macron hosted a special session for heads of state further emphasizing the high-level commitment to clean cooking initiatives. The gathering marked a significant milestone, bringing unprecedented financial support and global attention to this pressing issue.
As the leading advocate for solar cooking solutions, SCI provides clean cooking solutions to communities in need, empowering women and girls worldwide and promoting environmental sustainability. Transitioning to no-emission solar energy for cooking and safe drinking water not only improves health but also breaks the cycle of poverty, boosts local economies, and supports the advancement of all 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The outcomes of the Clean Cooking in Africa Summit signal a promising shift towards a future where clean cooking is accessible to all, and SCI remains committed to working alongside global partners to turn pledges into action.