Humanity for Development and Prosperity Organization (HDPO) conducted a comprehensive market assessment and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) across 20 villages in Western and Eastern Galabat in Al Gedaref state, under the DRR Project, to inform the introduction of fuel-efficient cooking solutions.
The activity applied a mixed methodology, including 143 household surveys, 9 FGDs, key informant interviews, and market observations, engaging women, community leaders, youth, farmers, pastoralists, and committee members. The findings highlighted widespread reliance on traditional cooking methods, particularly three-stone fire systems, leading to high firewood consumption, smoke exposure, and environmental degradation.
The activity is implemented by HDPO with partner and support from IOM Sudan and funded by The United Nations Peacebuilding Fund, providing an evidence-based foundation for selecting appropriate stove models that support environmental protection, improved household health, reduced fuel costs, and conflict mitigation.
Participants emphasized the need for improved stoves that reduce smoke, lower fuel consumption, and accommodate local cooking practices, while also being affordable and repairable. The discussions further revealed a strong awareness of the link between natural resource scarcity, deforestation, and local conflict, with communities recognizing the role of sustainable energy solutions in reducing tensions.
The assessment also identified market gaps and opportunities, including limited availability of improved stoves and the potential for local production and artisan training, alongside the need for awareness campaigns and pilot testing prior to scale-up.