Kenya was among the first countries in Africa to adopt biogas technology in the early 1950’s. However, uptake remained low until the Kenya National Domestic Biogas Programme (KENDBIP) rolled out a biogas programme in 2010. Under Kenya National Federation of Agricultural Producers (KENFAP) as the implementing agency, a total of 1884 plants had been constructed by June 2011. Production of biogas plants has been on a steady increase since inception and on target. About 2200 plants are earmarked for construction in 2011, with a flat subsidy of Ksh. 25,000 (approximately 200 Euro).
Gender mainstreaming in the programme is on course with women taking the bulk of the biogas plants loans (100% in Jan-Apr, and 61% in May), while the number of female masons trained and retained in the programme continues to rise. Equally, over 456 female users have been trained on efficient use and maintenance of biogas, against 258 male users.
Use of bio-slurry for improved agricultural production has increased due to enhanced training and awareness among users.
And since the programme is designed on development of a commercially viable and market-oriented biogas sector, KENDBIP is working with 9 biogas construction enterprises (BCEs) that are involved with biogas construction around the country. The Association of Biogas Contractors of Kenya (ABC-K), with about 30 BCEs is the umbrella body for biogas enterprises in Kenya. The association also offers assistance to biogas masons willing to register companies.
About 10,000 plants are earmarked for construction by the end of the year. The programme supports the KENDBIM model due to its relatively low cost of construction and a long life expectancy of over 20 years. Production of locally assembled stoves and lamps is undergoing which is expected to drastically reduce installation costs.
Various credit partnerships have been signed with several financial institutions to enable as many eligible clients take up biogas technology. KENDBIP has been involved in negotiations to ensure customers get the most favorable credit terms.
With a network of countrywide offices and support staff, KENDBIP is able to reach as many farmers and clients as possible.
For more information visit http://www.kenfapbiogas.org/
