Summary:

• Hoima City addresses environmental and health concerns caused by street food vendors using charcoal stoves by introducing clean energy food carts, benefiting 15 vendors and promoting a healthier, eco-friendly approach.

Amidst a surge in people preparing fast foods on charcoal stoves, contributing to environmental and health concerns, Hoima City authorities, in collaboration with partners, have launched an initiative. This effort involves providing 15 street fast food vendors, including both women and men, with food carts to address the issue of smoke emissions.

These food carts, equipped with a natural gas system and solar energy for cooking and lighting, aim to replace charcoal stoves and reduce emissions, promoting cleaner energy on the streets. Hoima City Mayor, Mr. Brian Kaboyo, underscores the importance of adopting environmentally friendly facilities like food carts for preparing fast foods such as chips, roasted chicken, meat, and chapattis.

The mayor highlights the environmental benefits of food carts, emphasizing that they eliminate the need for charcoal or firewood, reducing smoke and ash production. He calls on all street fast food vendors to use facilities that preserve the city’s trees, maintain clean roads, and ensure a healthier environment.

Mr. Achilles Kiiza, the Hoima City Secretary for Health and Education, believes that the initiative will help street fast food vendors provide services that align with city health standards. He urges beneficiaries to handle the food carts responsibly, as they represent a significant investment.

Mr. Ramathan Mugarra and Ms. Madrine Nyanjura, beneficiaries from Hoima and Bujumbura cell, respectively, appreciate the initiative for reducing expenses on charcoal and firewood. They believe the food carts will enhance their work and financial efficiency.

The initiative, supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife, and Antiquities and the United Nations Development Programme, involved a three-day training for 60 youth and women. Fifteen outstanding trainees were awarded food carts to facilitate their street food vending activities.