DFID - UK Department for International Development
From builder to biogas engineer - Ombeni Urio, Arusha, Tanzania
Ombeni Urio is a builder based near Arusha in Tanzania. But in 2010 he received training in how to build and install domestic and agricultural bio-gas systems, thanks to a project being implemented by the Dutch NGO SNV, with support from UK aid.
The bio-gas systems consist of brick-built tanks buried in the ground, into which animal or human waste is flushed, which then produces natural gas as it decomposes. The gas can then be piped off and used for cooking fuel, and the residue waste becomes slurry that can be used as fertiliser for crops.
Ombeni now employs 8 people and has built over 250 domestic and small agricultural use bio-gas systems around Arusha. At first the programme provided him with subsidised labour and materials, as well as marketing and business training. Now he's established a sustainable business, he gets a financial incentive based on the number of systems he sells and installs.
Picture: Russell Watkins/Department for International Development
From builder to biogas engineer - Ombeni Urio, Arusha, Tanzania
Ombeni Urio is a builder based near Arusha in Tanzania. But in 2010 he received training in how to build and install domestic and agricultural bio-gas systems, thanks to a project being implemented by the Dutch NGO SNV, with support from UK aid.
The bio-gas systems consist of brick-built tanks buried in the ground, into which animal or human waste is flushed, which then produces natural gas as it decomposes. The gas can then be piped off and used for cooking fuel, and the residue waste becomes slurry that can be used as fertiliser for crops.
Ombeni now employs 8 people and has built over 250 domestic and small agricultural use bio-gas systems around Arusha. At first the programme provided him with subsidised labour and materials, as well as marketing and business training. Now he's established a sustainable business, he gets a financial incentive based on the number of systems he sells and installs.
Picture: Russell Watkins/Department for International Development