Given that the up-front cost of the fuel efficient stoves is the single most important impediment, the organisation has developed local credit schemes which turn the cost of the stove into an operating cost. In the six years since war, the country of Rwanda has been slowly rebuilding itself. One of the few organisations with the mandate of promoting renewable energy technologies in the country is the Kigali Institute of Science, Technology and Management. A key factor recognised by the Government in raising the standard of living, eradicating poverty and improving health care is the supply of energy. Provision of cheap, affordable and reliable food is a vital aspect of rebuilding Rwanda.
Bread is a staple food in Rwanda, cakes are especially important in local ceremonies.
The bread oven developed by KIST produces 320 small loaves every 20 minutes. The oven has so far been designed for use in schools, hospitals and other institutions. The fuel saved will help slow the rapid deforestation seen in Rwanda since the war. While the oven can use wood fuel, but it is also designed to use biogas. KIST has developed a method of recovering biogas from its anaerobic waste water treatment plants.