In many Kenyan households and small businesses, charcoal remains the primary source of cooking fuel. However, its heavy reliance on trees continues to accelerate deforestation and environmental degradation. For low-income families, the rising cost of charcoal also makes it an unsustainable option.
Zaji Power Limited is providing a practical alternative.
Founded by Peter Mwembe Mafunza, Zaji Power is a briquette-making business that provides affordable cooking fuel while promoting environmental conservation. The enterprise serves low-income households, farmers who breed chicken, schools, and other institutions seeking a cleaner and more affordable alternative to charcoal.
Before joining the GreenBiz programme, Zaji Power began as a small initiative driven largely by passion. At the time, briquette production was still at a very basic level. The business could only produce about 100 kilograms, and at best 300 kilograms of briquettes in two weeks.
The challenge was not demand, but production capacity.
With limited machinery, production was slow and unreliable. The machine they had frequently broke down, causing delays and inefficiencies. Drying the briquettes was also a major challenge, as they had to spread them on the ground and hope the weather would cooperate.
Zaji Power’s turning point came when they joined the GreenBiz programme, implemented through the Kenya Climate Innovation Center (KCIC). Through the support, the enterprise received training in briquette production and record keeping, helping them build stronger business systems and improve operational efficiency.
Within a few months after the training, Zaji Power was able to scale its output significantly, increasing production to one tonne per week. This growth was supported by improved record keeping and better production planning.
With continued business support, Zaji Power later secured funding from the GreenBiz programme to purchase a much-needed machine. This investment dramatically improved their efficiency and enabled faster, more consistent production.
As a result, the company’s production capacity rose even further, reaching up to seven tonnes per week.
In the early days, Zaji Power primarily sold briquettes to neighbours and nearby customers, who often purchased it only once a week. But as their capacity improved, the business gained confidence in its ability to supply larger and more consistent orders.
Once customers realised Zaji Power could reliably meet demand, sales increased rapidly. Customer numbers grew from about four customers per week to a minimum of 20 customers per month, signalling a strong and growing market for alternative cooking fuel.
“The farmers would make 300kg per order. We would end up selling at least 3 tonnes of briquettes per week,” said Peter.
The impact of this growth has extended beyond production. With increased demand and scaling operations, Peter was able to employ 10 people to support and manage production. This job creation has contributed to local livelihoods and strengthened the business’s operations.
The financial growth has also been remarkable. Zaji Power’s revenue has grown from around Ksh 5,000 before GreenBiz to a current minimum of Ksh 200,800 per month.
Beyond business growth, Zaji Power is also making a positive difference in the community. Through profits earned from briquette sales, the company has been able to support 100 girls with sanitary pads, helping improve menstrual hygiene and keeping girls in school. Looking ahead, the enterprise is also exploring the establishment of an athletics club aimed at nurturing and supporting local talent.
Reflecting on the journey, the founder shared: “Our business advisor assigned by KCIC advised us to invest in the machinery once we got funding. That was the best decision I made for the business, and we are grateful for all the support that has been accorded to us.”
Today, Zaji Power stands as a strong example of how green enterprises can create meaningful economic impact while addressing environmental challenges. By providing an alternative to charcoal, the business is contributing to reduced pressure on forests and promoting cleaner cooking solutions across communities.
With continued support, innovation, and market expansion, Zaji Power is positioned to grow even further, proving that sustainable businesses can thrive while delivering real solutions for people and the planet.
Peter Mwembe, founder of Zaji Power (left), poses for a photo with business advisors from KCIC