By Our Reporter
Vivo Energy Uganda, the marketer and distributor of Shell fuels and lubricants, has announced a strategic partnership with educational institutions across the country to install Shell Gas facilities as a modern, safe, and sustainable cooking solution for schools.
This initiative aligns with the directive by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals to phase out traditional fuels such as firewood and charcoal in response to the pressing challenges of deforestation and environmental degradation in the country. The directive is part of broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions, promote cleaner cooking methods, and safeguard public health.
Prolonged exposure to smoke from firewood and charcoal has been linked to respiratory illnesses and other health risks. By switching to Shell Gas, schools can drastically minimise these risks, creating a safer and healthier environment for students and staff. Additionally, Shell Gas’s cleaner combustion reduces deforestation and helps lower the carbon footprint of institutions, contributing to broader environmental conservation efforts.
As part of this initiative, Vivo Energy Uganda has introduced a comprehensive Shell Gas package tailored to the needs of primary, secondary, and tertiary educational institutions. The package includes a high-capacity Shell Gas tank, a complete installation system with piping and meters, gas cylinders, burners, cookers, and critical safety equipment such as fire extinguishers, emergency shut-off valves, and protective fencing. Additionally, the programme offers free training for school support staff on the safe use and handling of Shell Gas, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
King’s College Budo, one of Uganda’s most prestigious schools, has taken the lead in this transition, becoming the first institution in the country to fully integrate Shell Gas for its cooking needs. This move underscores the school’s commitment to sustainability, safety, and setting a positive precedent for other educational institutions.
Moreover, the transition significantly reduces the financial burden associated with purchasing firewood and charcoal, which are often expensive and unreliable. The cost savings can be redirected towards critical areas such as infrastructure development, academic resources, and student welfare.
Beyond economic benefits, Shell Gas enhances operational efficiency. Unlike traditional fuels that require longer preparation time, Shell Gas allows for quicker and more efficient cooking, freeing up valuable time for students and staff to focus on academic and extracurricular activities.
Speaking during the College’s Founder’s Day event, Alvin Bamutire, Shell Gas Manager at Vivo Energy Uganda, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative, saying: “Our Shell Gas solutions provide schools with a reliable, cost-effective, and safer alternative to traditional fuels. This initiative is crucial in reducing health risks associated with firewood and charcoal while significantly contributing to environmental conservation. It aligns with our Sustainability Framework, which prioritises the wellbeing of people, the protection of the planet, and impactful partnerships that drive long-term positive change. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless installation process and providing ongoing support to schools for a smooth transition.”
Joanita Menya Mukasa, Managing Director of Vivo Energy Uganda, emphasised the importance of this partnership, stating: “We are proud to collaborate with schools across Uganda to introduce safer and more sustainable cooking solutions. At Vivo Energy Uganda, we are committed to delivering high-quality energy solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also promote sustainability and community wellbeing. This partnership is a testament to our commitment to driving positive change in Uganda’s education sector and beyond.”
Canon John Fred Kazibwe, Headmaster of King’s College Budo, expressed his enthusiasm for the school’s pioneering role in this transition: “We are honoured to be the first school in Uganda to adopt this safer, cleaner cooking solution. As an institution that values both academic excellence and the wellbeing of our community, it is our duty to lead by example. This transition from charcoal and firewood to Shell Gas not only enhances the health and safety of our students and staff but also reinforces our commitment to environmental sustainability.”
Vivo Energy Uganda remains committed to delivering innovative energy solutions that support local communities and businesses while promoting sustainability. This partnership with schools is part of the company’s broader vision to drive positive environmental and social impact across Uganda.
