TITLE:
The role of Government and Non-Governmental Actors in the Adoption of Improved Cooking Stoves in Rural Households: A Case of Kisarawe District, Coastal Region, Tanzania
AUTHORS:
Adolfu T. Assenga, Patrick M. Ndaki, Anthony P. Opiyo, Godbless S. Matowo
KEYWORDS:
Improved Cooking Stoves, Adoption, Government and Non-Governmental Actors, Rural Households
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Forestry,
Vol.16 No.4,
October
30,
2026
ABSTRACT: Traditional cooking stoves that burn biomass fuels have significant negative impacts on both the environment and human health. Globally, over 50% of the population, especially in developing countries, depends on biomass fuels for cooking, heating, and lighting. To address these challenges, governments and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have intensified efforts to promote Improved Cooking Stoves (ICS) and clean cooking technologies, which offer benefits such as reduced indoor air pollution and environmental preservation. However, despite these initiatives, ICS adoption remains low, particularly in rural areas. This study examines the roles of government and non-governmental actors in facilitating the adoption of ICS in Kisarawe District. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 166 household respondents and 13 key informants through interviews, two focus group discussions, and direct observations. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS version 29, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. Findings reveal that while governmental and non-governmental actors actively facilitate capacity building, stove production, and awareness, only 46% of households have adopted ICS, with the majority still relying on traditional stoves. Factors driving adoption include family size, education level, and income source; smaller households, those with higher education, and those engaged in business or formal employment are more likely to adopt ICS. The study recommends that governments and NGOs continue to foster a supportive environment by developing relevant policies, providing technical assistance, subsidizing raw material costs, and investing in research to enhance ICS adoption. Additionally, targeted training and awareness campaigns in rural communities should emphasize the health, economic, and environmental benefits of ICS to shift perceptions and encourage broader acceptance. Strengthening these efforts can accelerate the transition to cleaner cooking technologies and improve community well-being.