In rural areas of Burundi, where 90% of the population lives, cooking is still done almost exclusively with firewood on traditional three-stone stoves. This inefficient method poses serious risks to both health and the environment.

In poorly ventilated homes, indoor smoke leads to severe health problems - especially for women and children. Common consequences include respiratory and lung diseases, eye irritation, and an increased risk of burns. According to the WHO, millions of people die each year from indoor air pollution, particularly in developing countries.

AgrarKontakte International (AKI) e. V. promotes the construction of low-smoke, energy-efficient stoves in Burundi, using locally available materials such as clay and bricks. These stoves reduce firewood consumption by up to 50% - bringing tangible benefits for health, safety, and the environment:

• Improved indoor air quality – reduced respiratory illnesses and eye irritations
• Reduced fire risk through enclosed combustion
• New income opportunities through stove construction and knowledge transfer.

By supporting the construction of clean and efficient stoves, AKI improves the health and quality of life of many families in Burundi - especially women and children - while also strengthening environmental protection, household income, and local skills in the long term.

This project is implemented with financial support from the State Parliament and the State Ministry of Baden-Württemberg through the Foundation for Development Cooperation Baden-Württemberg (SEZ).