A field practitioner gives practical guidance on testing fuel efficiency.

The article describes the design and testing of the first version of the Berkeley Darfur Stove, an improved stove based off another fuel-efficient metal stove called the Tara. Alterations were made to the original design to improve performance in windy conditions and stability during vigorous stirring typical of food preparation in Darfur. Additionally, a cooking test protocol was designed to better simulate cooking situations in Darfur during stove testing. Step-by-step directions to implement the Darfur Cooking Test Protocol and detailed descriptions and diagrams of stove modifications are included, along with fuelwood efficiency data. 

A technical report discussing the environmental situation of Darfur.Based on a mission by the study team, Tearfund’s project experience and collaboration with other environmental initiatives in Darfur, the study introduces a framework of sustainable resource management in order to mitigate environmental degradationin the context of relief efforts. Practical recommendations are made tointegrate environment and resource management in relief projects and programs.

This report reviews outcomes of a participatory workshop on fuel efficient stoves (FES) for 30 displaced women from three camps in the el Fasher-area of North Darfur. Participants discussed the use and impact of the FES as well as made comparisons between the traditional 3-stone fire and the FES. Part II, directed towards the service providers, discusses the key messages and recommendations on replication, design changes, improving livelihoods and promoting alternative fuels.

In times of crisis, the need to generate income may force women and children to engage in activities of heightened risk to support their families. In particular, CHF found that women and girls participating in the collection and sale of firewood in Darfur were at increased risk of gender-based violence.  Based on their experience in Darfur implementing alternative income-generating activities (IGAs), CHF’s manual introduces and discusses general concepts and tools for strengthening basic business skills of participants and community structures around IGAs. The manual uses case studies to facilitate learning and decision-making regarding the development of a sustainable IGA.  It is designed for trainers and practitioners working in the field on community development, especially in areas transitioning from conflict to post-conflict environments.

This study tested three different fuel-efficient stove (FES) designs in Darfur IDP camps as well as the FES that was being promoted in the camps. Surveys were conducted on household parameters such as family size, food, fuel, cooking habits and expenditures on fuel. Descriptions of traditional dishes and cooking tools and techniques are detailed for better understanding of actual cooking situations in Darfur, allowing for informed and suitable improved stove modifications. The study found that the metal Tara stove performed best of the stoves tested and recommended the implementation of the Tara with appropriate improvements.

This report summarizes current literature focusing on the link between women’s roles in fuel provision and their vulnerability to GBV. It reviews relevant international guidelines and principles on fuel provision and GBV, identifying gaps in the policy and practice of fuel provision and GBV prevention. The article makes recommendations on how to better develop firewood conservation protocols, increase use of policing strategies, use capacity building as a response strategy, and foster collaboration between local research, community organizations and national institutions.