Rwanda and Saudi Arabia’s Forward7 initiative have launched a pilot project to distribute 50,000 affordable LPG cooking kits to low-income households, the Ministry of Infrastructure announced Wednesday.
Implemented by Bboxx, the 18-month program will provide two-burner stoves, 12 kg gas cylinders, and pay-as-you-go smart valves to families in Kigali, Musanze, Muhanga, Rwamagana, and Huye who have not received prior clean cooking subsidies.
Biomass, mainly wood fuel, accounts for most of Rwanda’s energy use, contributing to indoor air pollution and health risks. The project aims to reduce biomass dependence, improve health outcomes, and support economic development.
The initiative will also generate carbon credits, with proceeds reinvested to expand clean cooking access nationwide.
Started in Kigali in February 2025, the program has reached over 6,000 households and is now expanding to Rwamagana and Musanze, with further districts planned within a year.
Bboxx will conduct community awareness campaigns to promote eligibility and benefits.
The partnership aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Middle East Green Initiative and Rwanda’s goal of carbon neutrality and climate resilience.
