Govt distributes 2,000 free gas cylinders, burners in Gulu city

In a bid to promote clean energy and curb deforestation, the Ugandan government on March 25, 2025, distributed 2,000 free gas cylinders and cookers to residents of Gulu city.

The distribution, held at Stabex Filling Station in partnership with the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, is part of a 2022 initiative aimed at providing one million LPG cylinders and burners to encourage cleaner cooking alternatives.

Gulu city mayor Alfred Okwonga emphasised the need for a transition from firewood and charcoal to sustainable energy sources.

He cautioned recipients against selling, renting, or using the gas cookers as collateral for bank loans.

“I am warning you in advance not to attempt to either sell or hire out the gas cookers in search of money. Their purpose is to help us protect the remaining forests and improve our environment,” said Okwonga.

Stephen Olanya, the longest-serving LC1 chairperson of Green Valley in Gulu, praised the government under the National Resistance Movement (NRM) for its commitment to environmental conservation through the introduction of gas cookers to reduce deforestation for charcoal production.

Martha Acen, the LC1 chairperson of the Industrial Area in Gulu city, welcomed the initiative but appealed for a reduction in gas refill costs.

“At least the government should lower the high cost of refilling gas from sh100,000 to sh40,000 to enable more residents to afford it. This would encourage people to adopt gas cookers and reduce tree cutting for charcoal,” Acen said.

Edward Nuwamanya, the principal petroleum officer at the Ministry of Energy, explained that each LPG kit consists of a 13kg gas cylinder, a hosepipe, a regulator, and a double-plate cooker, valued at sh500,000.

He confirmed that 2,000 kits were dispatched to Gulu, with a portion sent to Kitgum Municipality.

“The government has subsidised the starter kits to enable citizens to transition to gas without the burden of high initial costs. This move is expected to curb rampant deforestation for charcoal, which contributes to climate change,” said Nuwamanya.

Gulu city deputy resident commissioner for Pece-Laroo Division, Peter Banya, warned residents against misusing the gas cylinders, cautioning that they are highly flammable and can cause serious destruction, including fatalities.

“Parents should never expose children to gas cylinders to prevent accidents. Selling them is also a criminal offence, and anyone caught will be arrested. This government initiative should be taken seriously, as it can help lift you out of poverty,” Banya stated.

He also urged the Ministry of Energy to push for a reduction in gas refill costs, suggesting a price drop from sh100,000 to sh45,000 or sh50,000 to make gas a more affordable alternative to charcoal.