Ugandan musician Eddy Kenzo has defended his wife, Minister Phiona Nyamutoro, amid criticism surrounding the government’s proposed ban on charcoal use in northern Uganda, arguing that gas offers a more convenient alternative for households.
Kenzo said charcoal production and use involve several demanding steps, from cutting down trees and burning wood to making charcoal to transporting and purchasing the finished product.
According to the singer, these challenges make charcoal an undesirable option when alternative cooking fuels are available.
“No one wishes to use charcoal. From the cutting of trees, they are tiring to cut, burning the charcoal isn’t easy either, buying sacks and moving them, all this isn’t easy and they make you dirty, so if we get a better option, it’d be better,” Kenzo said.
His remarks come amid debate over the proposed restrictions on charcoal use in northern Uganda, with the issue raising questions about cooking costs, access to alternatives and the implications for communities that depend on charcoal.
Kenzo Makes Case for Gas
The musician argued that the government should do more to encourage the use of gas as part of efforts to reduce dependence on charcoal.
He also raised concerns about the potential effects of charcoal use on people’s lungs, reinforcing his position that households should have access to alternative cooking methods.
Kenzo questioned why advocating for different energy sources should attract criticism, arguing that discussions about changing established practices are part of the country’s development.
“We talk about all this and when we advocate for a better solution, is that something bad? All countries aren’t using charcoal. If we want to take our country to the next level, there are conversations we have to start even if some people don’t want to hear them,” he added.
His comments amount to a defence of the proposed shift away from charcoal, although the practical impact of such a change would depend on whether households can access affordable and reliable alternatives.
Affordability Remains a Key Question
While Kenzo has made the case for gas, moving households away from charcoal involves more than encouraging people to change their cooking habits.
The cost of gas cylinders, refills and cooking equipment can affect whether families are able to make the transition. Access to reliable supplies and the financial circumstances of affected communities are also important considerations.
For households that depend on charcoal because of its availability or affordability, restrictions without accessible alternatives could create additional challenges.
The debate therefore extends beyond the environmental and health arguments surrounding charcoal to include the practical question of how families would meet their everyday cooking needs.
Kenzo’s intervention has added a public voice to the discussion, with the singer maintaining that Uganda should consider alternative energy sources even when proposals for change attract criticism.