Firewood Collection

In the rural areas, women spend a lot of their time walking and searching for firewood, the only source of energy available for them. With them are the children on their backs. Whether it is a rainy or sunny day it does not make a difference. They have to collect enough firewood for the household energy needs and even for sale if they are involved in informal businesses. There are risks involved in this process. For example, in the forest they may meet snakes; and since they are in the bush and are unshod, a thorn or dried stick may pierce their feet or legs.