Kwara State Governor, AbdulRaman AbdulRazaq, has introduced Eedu Ramoni, an innovative organic charcoal designed to provide a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative for domestic cooking in both urban and rural areas. This launch, which took place in Ijagbo, Oyun Local Government Area, marks a significant step toward addressing the rising costs of kerosene and cooking gas in Nigeria, with prices currently hovering around N1,350 per kilogram and N1,500 per litre, respectively.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the governor, represented by the State Commissioner for Environment, Nafisat Buge, highlighted the multiple benefits of Eedu Ramoni. He explained that this charcoal, produced from organic materials such as maize, rice, and banana husks, will empower local communities, reduce cooking costs, and promote environmental sustainability. The initiative was part of a broader program organized in collaboration with the Universal Climate Initiative (UCI) and the Federal Government’s Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes project.

Sustainable Energy for All
AbdulHafiz Alao, the project lead of UCI, described Eedu Ramoni as a revolutionary product made entirely from agricultural waste, including biodegradable materials like orange and banana peels, rice husks, and corn husks. He emphasized its role in reducing deforestation by offering an alternative to traditional charcoal, which is often derived from cutting down trees.

“This product not only preserves our forests but also ensures cleaner and healthier cooking by significantly reducing harmful smoke and pollutants associated with conventional charcoal,” Alao said.

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Economic and Environmental Benefits
Beyond its environmental advantages, Eedu Ramoni is set to provide significant economic opportunities. Alao noted that the initiative will create jobs, especially for women and youth in rural areas, through training programs on how to produce these briquettes. This training enables individuals to earn a sustainable income while contributing to environmental conservation.

With its affordability and accessibility, Eedu Ramoni is positioned to ease the financial burden on households, particularly in remote areas where traditional charcoal is either expensive or scarce. The program also includes the introduction of energy-saving stoves, further enhancing its impact on local communities.

Protecting Forests and Boosting Livelihoods
By promoting the use of agricultural waste for charcoal production, Eedu Ramoni offers a dual benefit: conserving forest resources and supporting industrial applications of preserved trees. This initiative underscores Kwara State’s commitment to sustainable development, environmental protection, and economic empowerment for its residents.

The unveiling also coincided with the state government’s plan to plant 160,000 trees across its 16 local government areas as part of a broader land reclamation and environmental conservation effort.