This good practice sheet documents the main lessons drawn from FAO's experience supporting a number of partners on the production and use of fuel-efficient (mud) stoves (FES) to address these challenges in Darfur. The protracted conflict since 2003 in Darfur, Sudan has resulted in massive loss of human lives and assets, disrupted livelihoods and led to severe food insecurity in some areas. As of December 2015, more than 2.6 million people are currently displaced in Darfur – approximately 42 percent of the total population. Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) and their host communities have limited livelihood options and often rely on unsustainable coping strategies, such as the unmanaged cutting of trees and shrubs for fuelwood and charcoal production. This places an additional burden on Darfur’s fragile ecosystem. Fuel-efficient stoves can make an important contribution in refugee and IDP camps, but also in other areas with high population density and scarce natural resources.

SOME KEY TAKEAWAYS

• On gender: Women are disproportionately affected by reduced access to fuelwood, as they are traditionally responsible for collecting fuelwood and cooking. Fuel-efficient stove (FES) technology can reduce the exposure of women and girls to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) associated with fuelwood collection. This aligns with humanitarian protection priorities for women and girls. FES technology also eases women’s work burden and empowers them economically by giving them skills in manufacturing stoves for sale.