Abstract:
Domestic energy crisis due to woodfuel scarcity is complex and
imposes a serious burden on many rural and urban households in Kenya. One
of the strategies outlined by the Kenya Government in its energy policy on the
present domestic energy problem is the introduction of improved stoves. The
adoption rate of these stoves has however not been impressive both in urban
and rural areas. Similarly variation in the use of energy within urban and rural
areas has received less attention. Moreover, the discrepancies between rural
and urban areas equally require examining given the policy implications
thereof.
This study is (a) an analysis of socio-economic variables which
influence the adoption and/or non adoption of improved stoves within and
among selected localities of Kisumu District and (b) a description of the
patterns and implications of domestic energy use in Kisumu.
The study is a cross-sectional survey consisting of male and female
heads of households in the District. The sample -- drawn by proportionate
stratified random sampling and systematic sampling -- consisted of 666
respondents with 500 respondents from Urban (Migosi Estate) subsample and
166 from rural (West Kano Irrigation Scheme, WKIS) subsample. The
research instrument consisted of interview-administered questionnaire of open
and closed ended questions. In addition, qualitative techniques (case histories,
key informant interviews, observation and focus group discussions) were used
to collect indepth information. The data was analysed by cross-tabulation, chi-
square, correlation, regression and time series analysis whilst some statistical
tests were performed.
The theories of diffusion of innovation, definition of the situation and
cultural lag, Necessity, Natural-circumstantial, Individual attribute, Power and
communication model were utilised in the interpretation of the research
findings. The study established that besides woodfuel scarcity, the adoption
of improved stoves is dependent on household education level, occupation,
income, awareness about innovation, orientation to the future, and personnal
efficacy. Conversely, non-availability and/or lack of awareness about
improved stoves, inability to afford improved stoves and lack of expertise and
materials to build improved stoves on individual basis hinders the rate of
adoption.
The study recommends that institutions concerned with improved
stoves promotion should adopt method(s) aimed at understanding the structure
and culture of the target group so that these energy conserving devices can
have an impact. There is need to incorporate strong feedback component in
the extension network to facilitate monitoring, coordination and the delineation
of the programme's strengths and weaknesses. The promotion of wood energy
conservation requires awareness, public education, understanding, political
will, and collaboration of Government and Non-Governmental agencies