Abstract
This is a review paper written with the intention to
shed light on continued reliance on high polluting energy sources
in the Southern Africa. Tn developing countries the use oflow cost
fuels including coal, wood, pellets, charcoal and cow dung
remains an obstacle in ensuring the right to clean air. Tn this study,
several stove to fuel combustion technologies researches, were
reviewed for similarities/ commonalities and differences. The
review highlights on critical health and environmental effects
associated with burning of solid fuels using inefficient
cookstoves. The review deepens the understanding on various
clean energy interventions and policy formulation in several
countries within the Southern Africa Development Communities
(SADC) region. Studies indicated the development of stove alone
will not be enough in enhancing or reducing air pollution, but
emphasis shall be put on stove to fuel combination. Findings also
suggest a lack of clear or practical policy intervention to restore
household indoor air quality, while single policy intervention
proven inadequate in many studies. In sub-Saharan region, policy
intervention focuses on energy switch thus from traditional solid
fuels to modern energy resources namely electricity and liquid
petroleum gas (LPG). This approach is not feasible given the
difficulties in electricity generation and supply system, housing
infrastructure and cost implication. Tn conclusion, policies which
support energy stacking present a viable solution to improved
indoor air quality.