Monitoring the schools and kitchens to ensure the institutional improved cook stoves (IICS) are in optimal efficiency operation means we get to meet many of the school staff, and eventually make good friendships.

Our visits are not a one-off, but we go to the schools once a month, from the time the IICS are installed.

Today we received the sad news that Vincent Jemba, the cook at St. Paul Nsambya, had passed yesterday. We have known Vincent since June 2017 when we first installed their IICS at the school.

I would like to write a short story in memory of our friend. I remember very well the day of the IICS delivery and training. Vincent was angry with us because he believed the new IICS would not be able to prepare the posho and beans on time. He was very used to his old stoves and was not ready to change nor use the new ones. The Deputy Head Teacher back then, Ms. Jane (today the HT at Bukasa primary School) told me not to worry, she would speak to him later that day to discuss about the school’s decision.

Two days later I pay a visit to St. Paul Nsambya to check on the cooks and the IICS. As I am approaching the kitchen, there was Vincent standing with a plate of food in his hands, offering me a meal in appreciation for the IICS, as he was feeling comfortable with his new kitchen.

The picture below is from February this year, during the fourth verification visit for our Gold Standard registered project activity. Vincent is on the far right, signing the training sheet. You will be missed.