Muenzer Kenya Welcomes Momentum for Biofuels and Highlights Role of Used Cooking Oil

Muenzer Kenya welcomes the growing momentum in Kenya to strengthen local biofuel development and reduce dependence on imported fuel. Recent discussions among Members of Parliament have renewed attention on ethanol blends and biodiesel as part of the country’s broader energy strategy. At the same time, Muenzer Kenya emphasises that the discussion around biofuels should not focus on energy alone. The way used cooking oil is handled also has direct consequences for public health and the environment.

“Biofuels can play an important role in strengthening Kenya’s energy security and supporting a more sustainable economy,” says Olivier Meganck, CEO of Muenzer Kenya. “But there is another equally important issue that deserves more attention: used cooking oil that is not collected properly does not simply disappear. It can re-enter the food chain or end up in drains and waterways, with long-term consequences for public health and the environment.”

A public health issue with an immediate solution

Muenzer Kenya, established in Nairobi in 2021, specialises in the collection and responsible management of used cooking oil from restaurants, hotels and food businesses across the country. The company ensures that this oil is safely collected, removed from the food chain and directed into renewable energy production.

When cooking oil is reused too often or disposed of improperly, it can harm public health, pollute waterways and damage drainage systems. According to Muenzer Kenya, this is not only an environmental challenge but also a preventable health risk that requires more awareness and more consistent action.

“The good news is that the solution is already available,” Meganck explains. “Used cooking oil can be collected safely, grease traps can be maintained properly, and businesses can take action immediately. It is simple, it does not require public spending, and it is the right thing to do.”

Turning waste into renewable energy

As Kenya explores ways to strengthen its biofuel sector, Muenzer Kenya highlights the importance of building the value chain on safe, traceable and sustainable feedstocks. Used cooking oil is one of the most practical and immediately available resources in this regard.

Through structured collection systems and hygienic containers, Muenzer Kenya helps prevent used cooking oil from returning to the food chain while enabling its conversion into sustainable biodiesel within the broader Muenzer Group’s international production network.

“Used cooking oil is not waste without value,” says Meganck. “If it is handled responsibly, it becomes part of a circular system that protects public health, keeps cities cleaner and contributes to renewable fuel production.”

Supporting Kenya’s biofuel ambitions

Kenya’s renewed discussion around biofuels creates an opportunity not only to strengthen energy resilience, but also to address a solvable waste and health challenge through practical action.

Muenzer Kenya believes that progress in this area does not depend on large public investment alone, but on consistent participation by the hospitality sector, food processors and private businesses. Restaurants, hotels and other food operators can already make an immediate contribution by ensuring proper disposal of used cooking oil and responsible grease trap management.

Expanding responsible collection

Muenzer Kenya continues to expand its nationwide network for collecting used cooking oil from restaurants, catering companies and hospitality businesses. The company is also supporting household collection initiatives that encourage communities to dispose of cooking oil responsibly. By doing so, used cooking oil can be transformed from a public health and environmental risk into a valuable resource for renewable energy.

“As Kenya continues to explore its biofuel potential, we should also recognize that the collection solution already exists,” Meganck says. “What is needed now is broader participation, stronger awareness and immediate action.”