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In July of this year I am going to be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for the Smokeless Stove Programme. At over 5,800 metres high, Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain and so it is certain to be both physically and mentally challenging.

The Smokeless Stove Programme has previously carried out projects in several countries, making a difference to the lives of women and children around the world. The money I raise will directly benefit the women and children in seven villages in Tanzania.

At present, food is cooked over open, indoor fires and seriously harms the lungs and eyes of those who use them. Due to the lack of awareness on the effects of pollutants from wood smoke to the eyes, elderly women have become victims of superstitious beliefs which signify that those with red eyes are witches. This has caused more than 196 elderly women to be killed in six regions of the country last year alone. Furthermore, the women have to walk substantial distances to collect wood to burn and this prevents them from having the time to participate in educational activities or activities which generate an income for themselves or their families.

The programme that I am a part of aims to provide 140 smokeless stoves to villages in the IIhanamilo ward of Tanzania as well as providing training for 70 local people.

For more information on the Smokeless Stove Project please visit http://www.exodus.co.uk/responsible-travel/our-projects/tanzania-smokeless-stove-project

This will be my first attempt at anything quite like this and am looking forward to the challenge! Please give what you can, it will be much appreciated.

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