KOKO Networks, a climate technology company operating in Kenya and other parts of Africa, has announced the closure of its operations in Kenya, sending shockwaves across the country.
The announcement was communicated to customers through mass text messages sent by the company’s founder, Greg Murray, who described the decision as “unavoidable” and asked users to bear with the situation.
In the message, the company informed customers that it had ceased operations and promised to communicate the next steps in due course, while expressing gratitude to millions of households that have relied on its services over the years.
“Samahani KOKO customer, we regret to inform you KOKO is closing operations today. We will share next steps soon. Asante for being a part of this journey,” read part of the message.
KOKO Networks has been serving millions of households nationwide by providing clean cooking fuel through its innovative ethanol-based cooking solution, commonly known as the KOKO cooker.
Since the current administration took office, the company has reportedly faced significant challenges in maintaining a steady fuel supply. These difficulties stem from regulatory and policy constraints that require #KOKO to source ethanol locally, despite claims that local producers are expensive and unable to meet the company’s nationwide demand efficiently.
As a result, customers across the country have experienced prolonged fuel shortages. Just last week, the company sent another message to subscribers acknowledging the disruption and apologizing for the inconvenience.
“Tunawashukuru kwa subira yenu. Bado tunajitahidi kurejesha #KOKO fuel yenye imeisha across the country na tunatumai tutaweza kuwahudumia karibuni. Samahani for the interruption,” the message stated.
The closure has come as a major shock to millions of households and small businesses that depend on #KOKO for affordable and clean cooking energy. Families are now faced with the difficult choice of switching to conventional cooking gas, which remains largely unaffordable for many.
The announcement marks a significant setback for clean energy adoption and climate-focused innovation in Kenya. #KokoFuelShortage