In an effort to revolutionize access to clean cooking solutions in Kenya, Safaricom and M-Gas have partnered to launch a groundbreaking prepaid gas service. This innovative solution is set to empower millions of Kenyan households by providing access to affordable and reliable cooking gas. With the flexibility to purchase gas based on individual needs and financial capacity, this service marks a significant step towards transforming the lives of many Kenyans.
Tackling Barriers to Clean Cooking
M-Gas is addressing the existing barriers to clean cooking by eliminating the high upfront costs typically associated with purchasing a gas cylinder and cooker. These costs often exceed KES 6,000, with refill expenses reaching KES 2,000 per cylinder. By removing these financial obstacles, M-Gas is making it easier for households to transition from traditional cooking methods to cleaner and healthier alternatives.
Michael Joseph, CEO of Safaricom, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “For more than 19 years, we have maintained our commitment to our purpose of transforming lives by exploring new innovations that create opportunities for our customers and uplift their lives. Safaricom’s partnership with M-Gas will, for the first time, empower millions of Kenyans with affordable access to clean cooking gas, an opportunity we believe has been previously underserved.”
The M-Gas Prepaid Gas Model
Each M-Gas setup includes a gas cylinder and a two-burner gas cooker, provided to customers at no upfront cost. The gas cylinder is equipped with an innovative smart meter that displays the amount of gas paid for and the remaining balance. Payments are made conveniently through M-PESA, and the gas supply automatically disconnects once the paid amount is consumed.
Volker Schultz, Head of M-Gas, remarked, “M-Gas is proud to be working with Safaricom on this pioneering effort to bring affordable, convenient, and clean cooking solutions to millions of low-income households in Kenya. Safaricom is a leader in both technology and customer service, and we look forward to building on this exciting new partnership.”
Innovative Features and Benefits
- Smart Meter Technology: The smart meter technology, powered by Safaricom’s digital and payment capabilities, gives customers complete control over their gas usage and payments. This technology aligns with the daily earning and spending patterns common in Kenya.
- Affordable and Flexible Payments: Customers can purchase gas for as little as KES 1 via M-PESA, with the cost of providing three meals for a household totaling less than KES 70 per day.
- Convenient Delivery Service: The smart meter sends alerts to M-Gas when gas levels are low, prompting the dispatch of a refilled replacement cylinder directly to the customer’s home at no additional cost.
- Health and Environmental Benefits: By offering a smoke-free cooking alternative, M-Gas helps eliminate health challenges associated with smoke-emitting fuels. According to the World Health Organization, household air pollution from traditional fuels contributes to over 15,000 premature deaths in Kenya annually.
Launch and Expansion Plans
The prepaid gas service is initially being launched in the Mukuru kwa Njenga area, with plans for expansion based on input from Safaricom and Community-Based Organizations. This strategic rollout aims to maximize the impact and reach of the service across Kenya.
Contribution to Sustainable Development
The partnership between Safaricom and M-Gas contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including goals related to poverty reduction, health improvement, gender equality, clean energy access, innovation, sustainable cities, climate action, and partnerships for development.
Safaricom’s NB IoT Network
The M-Gas solution is powered by Safaricom’s Narrow Band Internet of Things (NB IoT) network and M-PESA. This robust 4G network provides low-power mobile connectivity across the country, enabling remote monitoring and management of devices like gas meters and even beverage coolers.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Safaricom and M-Gas is a game-changer for clean cooking in Kenya. By leveraging advanced technology and innovative business models, they are making clean and affordable cooking accessible to millions, ultimately improving health outcomes and environmental sustainability in Kenyan communities.
