Chapter Two
About Mud Stoves
Mud stoves do not need to be fired before use. They are usually made by the user and do not require
special skills. They are cheap to make since all they require is the person’s time, water and soil. They
are therefore very appropriate for use by different communities. The main difference between clay-
lined stoves and mud stoves is the need for resources to make or possess. In almost all cases mud
stoves require mud and the skills of moulding and mixing. The technology for this can be easily
adopted and adapted.
Figure 2.1 Mud stoves are appropriate for use in many communities
Mud stoves provide the alternative technology in biomass energy use where ceramic stoves
are not appropriate or accessible. Where the communities are not financially endowed or where
transfer of skills is difficult or costly, mud stoves are a feasible alternative.
Appropriateness of mud stoves
Mud stoves are the most accessible type of biomass energy technology in the region. This is because
the materials used to make them are easily available and the cost is minimal. Consequently, they are
used by many community members, unlike clay-lined ceramic stoves which are expensive. Mud
stoves can be designed to suit the needs of the users. The technology is simple and easy to transfer
from one region to another, from one individual to another and from one generation to another.
Figure 2.2 Even the young can make mud stoves
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