Songhor-soba: Residents of Maraba and Tinderet suburbs in Songhor-Soba ward are increasingly abandoning liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in favour of cheaper cooking alternatives following a sharp rise in gas prices linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran. A spot check across the two suburbs reveals a growing reliance on charcoal, firewood, and traditional three-stone fireplaces, as households struggle to cope with the escalating cost of living. Many residents say the price hike has disrupted their daily routines, forcing them to rethink how they prepare meals.
According to Kenya News Agency, local gas dealers report a significant drop in sales, with customers either delaying refills or opting for smaller cylinders. A dealer in Maraba trading centre, Peter Kiprotich, noted the immediate and severe impact, stating, “We have seen a sharp decline in customers coming to refill their cylinders. Most people are saying the price is too high and they cannot afford it at the moment.” Kiprotich highlighted that customers who previously relied on 13-kilogram cylinders are now shifting to 6-kilogram options, while others are pooling resources to share a single cylinder among several households.
In Tinderet township, another dealer, Jane Chepkemoi, said the rising costs have disrupted the supply chain and reduced purchasing power among residents. “Even those who used to refill regularly are now hesitating. Some come and inquire about prices but leave without buying,” she explained, adding that the international crisis has driven up import costs, which are ultimately passed on to consumers.
Residents say the shift away from gas has not been easy but is necessary under the circumstances. Mary Jelagat, a resident of Maraba, mentioned that her family now reserves gas for quick tasks such as making tea, while heavier cooking is done using firewood. “We cannot afford to use gas for everything anymore. For foods that take long to cook like beans, we use firewood because it is cheaper,” she explained.
Daniel Kimeli, a resident of Tinderet suburb, echoed these sentiments, noting that the rising gas prices have compounded an already difficult economic situation. “Everything is expensive right now. Transport, food, and now gas. We have gone back to charcoal because it is what we can manage,” he said.
Charcoal vendors in the area are reporting increased business as more households turn to alternative fuels. Esther Chebet, a charcoal seller in Maraba, said demand has nearly doubled in recent days. “People who had stopped using charcoal are now coming back. Some buy small amounts daily just to get through the day,” she reported. Similarly, firewood suppliers say they are experiencing a surge in demand, with some struggling to keep up with orders.
The renewed reliance on biomass fuels is raising concerns among local leaders about the potential environmental impact, particularly increased tree cutting. Community elder Joseph Sang warned that while the shift is understandable, it could have long-term consequences. “If more people continue to depend on firewood, we risk depleting our trees. There is a need for a balance even as people look for affordable options,” he said.
Despite the challenges, residents say they are adapting as best as they can, with some households also embracing energy-saving practices such as cooking in bulk, using pressure cookers, and sharing meals among extended family members.
