Equity Group Foundation (EGF) is proud to support Tenwek Hospital’s transition from firewood to Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), marking a major milestone in promoting clean and sustainable cooking solutions for institutions. The switch benefits students and staff at the School of Health Sciences at Tenwek Hospital College in Bomet County, providing a healthier, more efficient cooking environment.
Through the efforts of Equity Bank Bomet Branch, the hospital has successfully installed a one-tonne LPG cylinder and piping system, aligning with EGF’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions that enhance health and environmental well-being.
Health and Environmental Benefits of the Transition
For years, Tenwek Hospital relied on firewood for cooking, which posed serious health risks to kitchen staff. Speaking at the commissioning of the new system, Vincent Langat, a cook at the hospital, highlighted the significant impact of the switch.
“Smoke from firewood was a major problem, especially when it was wet. Many of us suffered from eye irritation, chest pain, and the physical strain of chopping wood. Now, cooking is much easier and healthier,” Langat said.
Beyond improving indoor air quality, the shift to LPG helps reduce deforestation and carbon emissions, making it a sustainable choice for institutional cooking.
Equity’s Commitment to Sustainable Energy Solutions
Tenwek Hospital CEO, Benjamin Siele, expressed gratitude for Equity Bank’s role in the transition, emphasizing how long the institution had been searching for an alternative energy solution.
“Through Equity, we have accessed the energy solutions we needed. We are truly grateful, not only for this support but also for linking us with Heatmax Energy, the LPG installation vendor. We look forward to even greater collaboration with the bank, including our upcoming Hearts in Motion Marathon,” Siele said.
He also recalled Equity’s longstanding partnership with the hospital, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Equity Group CEO, Dr. James Mwangi, personally delivered Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) and essential medical supplies to support frontline healthcare workers.
Equity’s Role in Promoting Environmental Conservation
Equity Bank Bomet Branch Manager, Richard Koech, emphasized the bank’s commitment to environmental sustainability, noting that the switch to LPG has far-reaching benefits for both health and conservation efforts.
“By shifting from firewood to LPG, Tenwek Hospital is not only improving the health of its staff and students but also playing a role in preserving our forests. We can support more institutions in adopting clean cooking solutions, and Tenwek Hospital’s leadership in this transition sets an example for others in Bomet County,” Koech stated.
The Efficiency of LPG in Institutional Cooking
Shellemiah Ouma, Director of Heatmax Energy, highlighted the advantages of LPG for large-scale cooking, stating that it is faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective for institutions serving large numbers of people.
“We have partnered with Equity to install similar systems in other schools and hospitals across the Rift Valley, including Tenges and Turbo Girls Schools. We also provide ongoing after-sales service at no extra cost to ensure continued efficiency,” Ouma added.
Jackson Mosonik, a representative from Tenwek Hospital College, expressed appreciation for the smooth and efficient transition, noting that the entire installation was completed within just ten days.
“Equity enlightened us about the benefits of LPG, and after a benchmarking visit, we were fully convinced to make the switch,” Mosonik said.
A Step Toward Sustainable Development
Equity Group Foundation remains committed to fostering sustainable development through strategic partnerships that promote clean energy, environmental conservation, and improved health outcomes. By supporting institutions like Tenwek Hospital, Equity continues to drive positive change for communities across Kenya.