We Are Women, Yes We Can!

Women leading in the clean cooking field are true pioneers. They are changing not only the way we cook but also the very fabric of our communities. For many, clean cooking is not just about changing to a new technology (It's not just moving from LPG to electric cooking or from the 3-stone method of cooking to an improved cookstove) It is instead a big change that improves health, safety, and our care for the environment. In countless households, women have managed cooking with outdated, inefficient fuels that pose significant health risks and environmental hazards. It is exactly because of this that women bring a firsthand understanding of the challenges at hand, positioning themselves uniquely to drive innovations that resonate deeply with the communities they serve.

The move toward clean cooking takes hard work, requiring a delicate balance between technical expertise and an empathetic approach to community needs. Women in this sector are expected to deliver solutions that are both scientifically sound and that fit well with local cultures. Their success is seen in their ability to develop sustainable practices that improve health outcomes and reduce environmental impact, all while navigating a complex landscape with limited resources and systemic barriers.

Becoming a leader in clean cooking is not easy. Many women face big challenges, like finding funding, overcoming gender bias, and balancing work with family duties. There are also problems with institutions and fewer chances to build networks. Even with these obstacles, the strong spirit and determination of these leaders shine through. Their journey shows how hard times can become opportunities when driven by passion and personal commitment.

One common question that arises in discussions of female leadership in clean cooking is whether success in this arena requires the support of male allies. While women have proven they can lead on their own, the active engagement and support from male colleagues, investors, and decision-makers can speed up progress. Male support in this context is not about dependence but about creating a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives converge to dismantle long-standing obstacles and foster innovation. When men and women work together, the result is a more robust, inclusive approach that benefits everyone involved. In short (what I am trying to say is that) it’s about working together to break down old barriers and encourage fresh ideas. When everyone joins in, the effort becomes stronger and more inclusive for all.

To truly benefit from clean cooking, the whole industry needs to be set up to include everyone. This means even rethinking policies to ensure equal opportunities for women, creating funding options for projects led by women, and building mentorship programs that share both technical and leadership skills. A shift toward flexible work environments wouldn’t hurt as well, as it allows women to pursue professional excellence without sacrificing personal well-being. These changes can go a long way as they can turn into a model for innovation and community growth, where every new idea is a step toward a more sustainable and equitable future.

Today, the role of women leaders is more important than ever. Their vision, resilience, and innovation are the driving forces behind a movement that promises to illuminate homes and communities alike. This is a call for all of us, be it women, men, investors, and leaders to support these change-makers. We must push for policies that remove obstacles, invest in projects led by women, and build networks that help every woman lead with confidence.

Join this movement for change. Stand with women leaders in clean cooking, support fair policies, and help make every home a place of sustainable progress. Together, we can shape a future where leadership is defined not by obstacles, but by the limitless potential of empowered, visionary women.

(We are Women, Yes We Can!)

Mama Rachel Ruto , Dr. Faith Wandera-Odongo , Linda Davis, PhD , Venice Makori (Msc. OD, Bsc. Energy Studies, Bcom) , Yvonne Nyokabi Gachugi - Nzomo , Hanna Salian , Valerie Ostheimer , Jacqueline Kimeu , Lorraine Njeri , Joy Nzue , Joy Mugambi , Mariam Karanja , Philomena Mitalo , Ruth Wambui Wambugu , Evelyn Munihu , Sophie Odupoy , Eng. Madrin Maina , E. Nicole Karimi , Biyaki Bosire , Emily Naliali Ochanda , Emily Bolo , Awuor Dorothy Otieno , Bernadette Mwende , Patricia Mbogo , Purity Ndereba , Teddy Nalubega , Annahstacia Kasyima , Saida Wanga , Joy Kwamboka , Prudence Lihabi , Monicah Gathuna , Diana Rotich - MPRSK , Rukia Khamis , Myra Mukulu , Jackbed Gakii Mugo , Lorraine ( LOLAINE) Kirigia , Ruth Gichuhi , Tracy Gakii , Syprose O. , Beryl Onjala , Catrine Shroff , Finorah Manyala , Josephine J. , Lilian Kagume , Marion Ambani , Anne Wacera Wambugu , Anne Songole , Karlijn Groen , Carol Makonnen , Esther Wanza , Béatrice Despioch , Grace G. , Maureen Njagi , Joy Otieno , @Maureen Odhiambo, Sheila Chepkorir , Diana Kosgei , Lucy Chege , Yvonne Mose , Martha Nasipwondi Wakoli , Joyce Kibe , Irene Wanjohi , Danette Morara , Diana Masika .