Turning Food Waste into Clean Energy—How MOMA is Tackling Energy Poverty

In 2019, Yvonne Nyanduko set out to solve one of Africa’s biggest challenges—energy poverty—by harnessing a resource often overlooked: food waste. She founded MOMA Renewable Energy, a tech startup in Kenya, to transform discarded organic matter into affordable bioethanol cooking fuel, providing a clean alternative to traditional fuels.

Based in Kisii County, MOMA’s innovation comes at a crucial time. Despite Africa’s vast renewable energy potential, the continent receives only 2% of global investment in renewables, leaving 600 million people without electricity. Yvonne saw an opportunity to bridge this gap, tackling energy access, environmental sustainability, and economic empowerment in one go.

Innovating for Impact

MOMA Renewable Energy isn’t just about fuel—it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem. The company partners with food processors to repurpose waste into biofuels like bioethanol for clean cookstoves and biodiesel for small-scale industries. This model benefits both the environment and the economy, helping businesses reduce waste while generating a sustainable fuel source.

Yvonne, who holds a background in Natural Resource Management, is committed to uplifting communities. Her vision extends beyond energy—she focuses on mentoring women, reducing waste, and fostering inclusive economic opportunities.

Breaking Barriers in a Male-Dominated Industry

As a woman entrepreneur in renewable energy, Yvonne has navigated gender bias and limited access to funding with resilience. Through technical excellence and a strong team, she has built MOMA into a recognized leader in Africa’s biofuel sector. Now, she’s paying it forward—mentoring women in energy and breaking down barriers for future female innovators.

Scaling with Standard Chartered’s Support

In 2024, MOMA Renewable Energy was selected for the Women in Tech Incubator Program Cohort, a joint initiative of Standard Chartered and iBizAfrica at Strathmore University. As part of the program, Yvonne’s startup received $10,000 in seed funding, fuelling further growth.

Driving Change: MOMA’s Impact So Far

MOMA’s efforts have led to significant social and environmental outcomes, including waste reduction, lower emissions, job creation, and improved energy access. Additionally, the company has contributed to economic growth, community empowerment, and support for gender-based violence survivors by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities.

• Job Creation: Directly employs 22+ people, while supporting 100+ individuals through partnerships.

• Energy Access: Provided clean cooking fuel to 1,000+ households, improving indoor air quality and health.

• Community Empowerment: Trained waste aggregators, enhancing livelihoods while promoting sustainability.

• Support for GBV Survivors: Employed and empowered 20+ gender-based violence survivors, offering dignified work and financial independence.

A Vision for the Future

Yvonne believes that unlocking Africa’s renewable energy potential requires investment, policy support, and collaboration.

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