Women in Mangochi have commended the Changu-Changu Mbaula project, describing it as efficient and economical due to its reduced firewood consumption.

The remarks were made during a two-day inspection visit to various villages in Mangochi District, where residents are using the Changu-Changu mbaula, a project being implemented by Ripple Africa.

Magret Esawu, a user from Kasankha Village, hailed Ripple Africa for introducing the initiative, saying it has significantly eased her household expenses.

“Before the Changu-Changu mbaula, I used to spend about K16,000 per week on firewood, but now I only spend K4,000 for the same period because the Changu-Changu mbaula uses less firewood,” Esawu said.

Felesi Chikoko, another woman from Kamphande village echoed the sentiments, saying that the project has reduced the long distances they used to walk to collect firewood, while also cutting household costs.

Geoff Furber, Chief Executive Officer of Ripple Africa said the project not only helps conserve the environment but also lessens the financial burden on families.

“As CEO of Ripple Africa, I felt it was important to personally inspect and witness the impact the Changu-Changu mbaula has had on households in the districts where we are operating,” he said.

Launched in 2003, the Changu-Changu mbaula project has so far reached 250,000 households across six districts, namely Mangochi, Rumphi, Mzimba, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota and Salima.