Quick Info

Business Description

Centre for Innovation, Science and Technology – Africa (CIST Africa) began as a school-based initiative in 2009. The enterprise deals with the manufacture and sale of bio ethanol fuel from water hyacinth feedstock blended and stabilized for cooking and lighting. It is located in Siaya County

Problem/Solution

Households in Kenya spend at least Ksh. 85 to purchase kerosene or charcoal daily. At least 3 hours are wasted on cooking an average meal using biomass, 2 hours lost in fetching wood fuel, denying girls a chance to remain in school and women to pursue productive work. In addition, water hyacinth covers more than half of Lake Victoria, impairing all economic activities in the lake. Few tangible commercial uses of this weed have been identified and it therefore remains to be seen as a curse by the locals. There is a need to sustainably manage it. Green bio-fuel is an eco-friendly, clean, reliable and affordable alternative aimed at addressing these challenges to meet household energy needs.

Products/Service

Thebiofuel produced by CIST is Ksh.15 cheaper than kerosene and charcoal and cooks faster and for longer (boils one liter of water in 3 minutes; burns continuously for 5 hours on high power knob) emitting neither soot nor smell. It will also save the women and girls time that would otherwise be spent on fetching wood fuel.

Traction to Date

CIST-Africa has purchased equipment and is currently producing biofuel leading to an income estimate of 1.8 million in 2017. 12 people have been employed in the business. 200 households (about 1000 people) are directly benefiting from the use of clean energy. Currently the business has a test certificate, and is undergoing legal business registration process with assistance from legal services from National Environmental Trust Fund.