Nairobi, Kenya – President William Ruto has instructed the Ministry of Energy, under the leadership of Cabinet Secretary James Opiyo Wandayi, to facilitate the installation of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) systems in all schools across the country. The initiative forms part of the government’s broader agenda to combat deforestation, promote clean energy solutions, and contribute to the ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Speaking at Jamhuri High School in Nairobi during the launch of the LPG Programme for public institutions, President Ruto stressed the importance of transitioning schools away from firewood and charcoal dependence. He expressed full confidence in CS Wandayi’s capacity to implement the program within a one-year timeframe.
“I trust that James Opiyo Wandayi and his team at the Ministry of Energy will deliver on this project, ensuring every school in Kenya has access to clean, affordable gas. This initiative will not only conserve our environment but also protect the health of school kitchen staff,” said President Ruto.
The President invited private sector partners to play a pivotal role in the program through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), minimizing the financial burden on the government. “This initiative will be largely financed by the private sector. Just as these companies supply vehicles, they will also help install LPG tanks in schools. I urge the private sector to collaborate with us on this critical mission to provide clean energy to our learning institutions,” he added.
President Ruto underscored the multi-faceted benefits of the initiative, citing its role in environmental conservation, improved health standards, and revenue generation through carbon trading mechanisms. “By transitioning all schools to LPG, we achieve a win-win outcome – saving trees, improving health conditions, and unlocking carbon trade resources.”
The rollout will commence with a pilot program in 20 public schools, including Jamhuri High School, Isiolo Girls High School, Ogande Girls High School, and Machakos Technical Institute for the Blind. Each participating institution will be equipped with two LPG tanks, four 50kg backup cylinders, tank cages, piping, and fire safety equipment. The government plans to expand the program to 5,000 schools by 2028, with 10 additional institutions set to join the pilot phase by the end of the current financial year.
In a move to make clean energy more affordable, President Ruto announced that LPG procurement would transition to an Open Tender System (OTS) to ensure competitive pricing and accessibility. “We are shifting to an open tender system for gas procurement to bring down costs, ensuring that clean energy becomes a reality for all schools,” he stated.
This initiative reflects the government’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development, environmental conservation, and the overall well-being of students and school staff. By prioritizing clean energy, the program aligns with Kenya’s mission to protect its natural resources while improving the lives of its citizens.
