Factors Influencing Adoption of Cleaner Cooking Solutions in Parklands Sub-County Households, Nairobi, Kenya

Purpose: The purpose of the study was to evaluate the factors driving the adoption of cleaner cooking solutions by households in Parklands Sub-County, Kenya. The study specifically aimed at determining the social factors, economic factors and technological factors affecting the adoption of cleaner cooking solutions by households in Parklands Sub-County, Kenya. Methodology: The research design was descriptive research design. The target population was households using traditional ways of cooking, narrowed down from all households. Sampling involved simple random sampling, ensuring equal representation. The Yamane formula determined a sample size of 96. Data analysis encompassed descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS. Findings: From the results, social factors demonstrated a statistically significant positive correlation with adoption of cleaner cooking solutions (r = 0.722, p < 0.01). The regression coefficient (β = 0.722, t = 10.061, p < 0.001) indicated that for each unit increase in social factors, adoption increases by 0.630 units. Economic factors showed a stronger positive correlation with adoption of cleaner cooking solutions (r = 0.808, p < 0.01). The regression coefficient (β = 0.808, t = 13.203, p < 0.001) demonstrated that each unit increase in economic factors improves adoption by 0.765 units. Technological factors exhibited a very strong positive correlation with adoption of cleaner cooking solutions (r = 0.850, p < 0.01). The regression coefficient (β = 0.850, t = 15.411, p < 0.001) indicated that each unit increase in technological factors enhances adoption by 0.758 units. In conclusion, the study revealed statistically significant positive relationships between social factors, economic factors, and technological factors with the adoption of cleaner cooking solutions in Parklands Sub-County. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommended that stakeholders strengthen adoption of cleaner cooking solutions by conducting community awareness campaigns, leveraging opinion leaders, and providing educational workshops. Robust economic support mechanisms should be prioritized through targeted subsidies, innovative payment models like pay-as-you-cook, and microfinance options to overcome initial cost barriers. Improving technological accessibility through user-centered design, compatibility with local cooking practices, and reliable after-sales support is also advised. Additionally, manufacturers and distributors should focus on products that align with user preferences while ensuring ease of operation, maintenance, and cleaning to facilitate wider adoption of cleaner cooking solutions in urban settings.