Nairobi — Kenya has launched oil dispensing machines as part of its efforts to lower the cost of cooking oil that has been on the rise in the country.

The initiative will be carried jointly between Kenya and Indonesia.

Speaking Monday during the launch of the dispensing machines christened "Mama pima" in Nairobi's Dagoretti South Constituency, Trade Cabinet Secretary Moses Kuria said that the move will enable Kenyans access cooking oil at affordable rates from as low as Sh 10.

Kuria highlighted the significant financial burden that Kenya incurs through the importation of edible oils, which currently amounts to over Sh 100 Billion annually.

He underscored the need to reverse this situation, noting the collaborative efforts being undertaken with governors from oil-producing counties to bolster palm oil cultivation.

"Together with Governors from counties that can grow oil, we have embarked on empowering farmers to plant palm oil," he said.

To empower the youth, Kuria said that he had instructed, the Kenya National trading corporation to make sure all the dispensing machines and containers are manufactured by the local Jua kali artisans.

On his part, Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Co-operatives & Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Simon Chelugui said the joint venture demonstrates the commitment of both Indonesia and Kenya to supporting their citizens and promoting economic development.

Chelugui urged women and youth groups to apply for group hustler fund and be able to purchase the dispensing machines and set up businesses in their areas.