Solar Cookers and Urban Food Security in Dakar's Slums: An African Perspective on Adoption Studies

Solar cookers have gained attention as a sustainable alternative to traditional cooking methods in urban slums of Dakar, Senegal. Qualitative interviews were conducted with 30 households from three selected urban slums in Dakar, focusing on their experiences and perceptions regarding solar cooker usage. Findings revealed that while about 60% of interviewed households reported using solar cookers for at least one meal per week, concerns over initial investment costs were common. The study underscores the potential benefits of solar cookers in improving food security and sustainability practices among urban slum populations but highlights the need for financial support to overcome adoption barriers. Communities should be provided with subsidies or grants to reduce upfront costs, while local authorities could implement awareness campaigns to increase acceptance.