Schools are likely to benefit from a recent announcement by the State Department for Petroleum that it plans to use KSh2.5 billion from the fuel anti-adulteration levy to build gas facilities in schools and public institutions.
During a recent appearance before the National Assembly Committee on Energy, Mohammed Liban, Principal Secretary in the State Department for Petroleum under the Ministry of Energy and Petroleum, said he has written to the Treasury requesting approval to use the anti-adulteration levy for constructing liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) facilities in public schools, health facilities, prisons, and the National Youth Service (NYS).
The PS stated that his ministry has identified 7,000 public schools interested in installing LPG facilities.
“More than 7,000 schools have expressed interest,” Liban said. “Approximately 70% of these schools currently rely on firewood for cooking. Our plan prioritizes public schools, followed by public institutions, hospitals, prisons, and the NYS.”
Liban further stated plans to construct LPG facilities in 300 to 500 schools annually using the allocated budget for Fiscal Year 2024/2025.
The PS also mentioned that his ministry has advertised for LPG procurement for public institutions. He added that NEMA is conducting an Environmental Impact Assessment to ensure the safety of the LPG facilities.
“These facilities aim to replace mattresses students sometimes burn during riots,” Liban explained. “We will install perimeter fences around the facilities to prevent unauthorized student access.”
He added that they will conduct safety and security training for students and school management.
As per the law, payment of the anti-adulteration levy is required on all illuminating kerosene imported for home use in the country. The Finance Act of 2018 introduced the levy through an amendment to the Miscellaneous Fees and Levies Act of 2016.