Oct 14, 2025
New Study Reveals Strong Demand for Clean Cooking Solutions in DRC and Zambia
A new multi-country research study has highlighted a significant gap and opportunity in access to clean cooking technologies across rural communities in Democratic Republic of the Congo and Zambia .
The Rapid Needs Assessment, conducted between June and July 2025, was led by Cornerstone International in collaboration with Center for Environmental Justice and Save Congo . The study forms part of the broader Eco Flame project and is intended to inform the design of a large-scale clean cooking initiative focused on solar and electric solutions.
Surveying 430 respondents, 67% of whom were women, the study found that firewood and charcoal remain the dominant cooking fuels in both countries. Notably, none of the respondents reported using solar or electric cooking technologies, underscoring a major gap in access to clean energy alternatives.
Despite relatively short fuel collection times for many households, reliance on traditional fuels continues to carry health, environmental and financial costs. Smoke-related illnesses emerged as the top concern among respondents, followed by deforestation and other environmental impacts.
One of the study's most striking findings is the lack of awareness around clean cooking technologies. Over 90% of respondents had never heard of eCooking solutions and none reported a clear understanding of how they work.
Yet, among those with some awareness, there was strong recognition of the health and environmental benefits, particularly reduced smoke exposure and forest protection. However, economic benefits such as cost savings or income opportunities were largely unrecognized, pointing to a critical need for education and awareness campaigns.
The data highlights a clear gender dynamic: cooking responsibilities fall overwhelmingly on women and girls. At the same time, 97% of respondents reported that women are not currently involved in energy-related businesses.
Encouragingly, nearly all respondents expressed interest in training programs that would enable women to lead clean cooking enterprises, such as managing eCooking cooperatives or local distribution networks. Researchers say this presents a powerful opportunity to link clean energy adoption with women's economic empowerment.
Contrary to common assumptions, affordability was not identified as the primary barrier to adoption. Instead, respondents cited lack of availability in local markets and limited information as the biggest challenges.
The majority of households indicated a willingness to contribute small amounts, typically under $25 toward acquiring clean cooking solutions, suggesting that innovative financing models could unlock adoption at scale.
The study also found overwhelming support for integrating clean cooking technologies into schools. All respondents agreed that schools would be strong partners in promoting solar eCooking, with suggested activities ranging from demonstration kitchens and climate clubs to technical training and awareness campaigns.
Experts say schools could play a pivotal role in driving long-term behavior change, particularly among young people.
Overall, the findings confirm both the urgent need and strong demand for clean cooking solutions across the two countries. With no current adoption of eCooking technologies, the study identifies a clear opportunity to introduce scalable, sustainable alternatives that address health risks, environmental degradation, and gender inequality.
The consortium behind the research is now calling for targeted investments in awareness campaigns, women-led business models, improved market access, and school-based programs. Proposed interventions include solar stove distribution, micro-financing schemes, and the development of local supply chains.
As momentum builds around clean energy transitions in Africa, the study positions the Eco Flame project and its partners, as key players in advancing solutions that are not only environmentally sustainable but also socially transformative.