Conserving the environment: Briquette-making initiative empowers women and men in Kotido district
KOTIDO,10, 2025 – A transformative initiative is underway in Kotido district, where selected women and men are being trained in briquette-making under the supervision of Green Leaf Consulting Services. This innovative project is designed to economically empower the local community while promoting environmental sustainability through the use of waste materials.
The briquettes are produced using locally available waste such as groundnut husks, sorghum straw, cow dung, charcoal dust, and bones, materials that would otherwise go unused or contribute to environmental degradation.
Joel Olal Okello, the District Environment Officer and Team Leader at Green Leaf Consulting Services, welcomed the initiative, recognising its dual potential to benefit both the environment and the community.
“This project is a great example of community-led sustainable development,” he said. “By promoting environmental sustainability and economic empowerment, we can create a brighter future for the community.”
The briquette-making process involves collecting and processing waste materials, which are then compressed into compact, fuel-efficient briquettes. Olal explained that these briquettes serve as a sustainable alternative to traditional fuels, helping reduce the community’s reliance on wood and charcoal. This, in turn, lessens deforestation and contributes to a cleaner, healthier environment.
The project is also expected to deliver substantial economic benefits. By creating a sustainable business model, it offers income-generating opportunities and improved livelihoods for participants. Additionally, it creates employment for trained individuals, enabling them to support themselves and their families.
Betty Napio, one of the project beneficiaries, expressed her optimism: “This project will save women the time spent walking long distances in search of firewood. It will also help us reduce our reliance on charcoal and promote a cleaner environment.”
Calisto Lojok, another beneficiary, highlighted the importance of men’s participation in the project:
“With men involved, we’ll be able to advocate for the initiative and raise awareness about its benefits. It’s also a practical alternative to charcoal burning, which helps reduce deforestation and supports forest conservation.”
Akore John Bosco, Secretary of the Elders’ Council, called for the training to be extended to elders:
“Elders play a vital role in promoting community development initiatives. Training them ensures they are equipped to act as ambassadors for the project within the community.”
Akore described the initiative as a “shining example of community-led sustainable development,” emphasising that with strong leadership and active community participation, it could serve as a model for other regions.
The environmental benefits of the project are significant. By offering a sustainable fuel alternative, it contributes to reducing deforestation and encouraging forest conservation. The use of waste materials also lessens landfill pressure and supports a cleaner environment. Moreover, the briquettes provide a cleaner, more efficient energy source, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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