Deadline: 31-Dec-2025
The Worthington Companies Foundation is inviting applications for its West Africa Clean Cooking Fund, aiming to transform cooking practices in the region. This initiative targets areas where over 267 million people still rely on traditional biomass fuels for cooking. These outdated methods cause serious health issues—especially for women—and contribute to deforestation and increased greenhouse gas emissions.
The fund, supported by a US$1 million investment, is designed to back projects that promote cleaner, safer, and more sustainable cooking alternatives using LPG (liquefied petroleum gas). It seeks to replace harmful cooking practices with modern solutions that improve public health and reduce environmental damage.
Eligible projects may include behavior-change campaigns that promote sustainable cooking through engaging activities like cooking classes and food demonstrations using LPG. Consumer education efforts are also welcome, focusing on spreading awareness of the health, economic, and environmental benefits of clean cooking solutions.
Another key area of funding is consumer financing, which aims to expand access to LPG through microfinance and flexible loan options, helping households afford and adopt cleaner fuel alternatives. Projects that support women’s empowerment are also eligible—especially those that train and uplift women as clean cooking advocates, giving them leadership roles and tools to influence household energy decisions.
The fund will support projects across several West African countries, including Benin, Burkina Faso, Cabo Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, The Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, and Togo. Beneficiaries include households, community groups, and organizations promoting clean cooking technologies and practices.
To be eligible, applicants must be registered NGOs or local organizations with strong financial stability and a track record in community outreach or clean energy work. While direct funding for governments is not allowed, collaborative efforts with public agencies are encouraged to improve community access and amplify impact.
Organizations selected must provide quarterly reports on project progress, including distribution data, training sessions, and community involvement. Regular audits may also be conducted to ensure transparency and proper use of funds.
All project costs must stay within the budget limits set by the fund. Additionally, all LPG equipment used must meet both national and international safety standards. Implementers must also adhere to all ethical and regulatory guidelines throughout the life of the project.
For more information, visit Worthington Companies Foundation.
