The end of April saw a new public/private partnership between EcoZoom and SCOPE International. We are looking forward to a fruitful relationship that provides lasting benefits to the community.

School Communities Offering Projects that Empower (SCOPE) International is a community based non-government organization that seeks to empower residents in Kisii County, just outside Kisii town in Kenya. The NGO trains Community Health Workers (CHWs) who are mostly women on five key areas: Water management, Education, Health, Environmental Conservation and Economic Empowerment.

Last week, EcoZoom partnered with SCOPE international to train 35 CHWs on the product benefits and how selling them helps both the CHWs’ livelihoods and the community receiving the clean, energy-saving lights and jikos. EcoZoom was amongst other stove companies that approached SCOPE international for a partnership. The CHWs chose EcoZoom stoves not only because of the 60% fuel savings, but also because of their beautiful appearance.

CHWs from SCOPE International digging their new jikos and lights

The CHWs complained of the smoke from the three stone fire that uses firewood. With the EcoZoom stoves, they are excited about fewer headaches and burning eyes because of 70% less smoke than the three stone fire.

Douglas Makori, a member of SCOPE international, says he is hopeful for a long partnership with EcoZoom, as it is a means of empowering the CHWs. These CHWs will now be sales agents and will be selling the stoves to other members of the community.

Lillian Samuel, country director of SCOPE Kenya is very pleased with the successful partnership and is looking forward to working closely with EcoZoom. Lillian works alongside the Kisii County Government to improve the living standards of the residents of the Kisii community.  

Photo and Story by Wangui Mungai, EcoZoom Communications Intern