Abstract: A descriptive qualitative case study methodology was deployed to explore baking as a method of cooking and dry heat ovens in Sierra Leonean. The study was a project to partially fulfill the requirements for the award of an associate degree in food science at Njala University College, University of Sierra Leone. The study focused on baking using low-cost, dry heat, efficient ovens as an income-generating enterprise, highlighting the challenges faced by local bakers, and alleviation strategies to help bring about social change in Sierra Leone. Data collection and analysis included content analysis of articles, interviews with community members, observations, and hands-on participation. The Social Enterprise Theory, Appropriate Technology, and Heat Transfer concepts were the conceptual frameworks that guided the study. Meta-analysis of articles and interviews of participants yielded themes or phrases such as food, economic benefit, land, labor, prices, ingredients, satisfaction, and career. These themes were part of the coding and analysis that facilitated discussions regarding baking as a social enterprise, its health and economic benefits, challenges faced by local bakers within the community, and an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon. Results indicated that the use of dry heat oven for baking were easy to prepare with low-cost materials and are capable of functioning efficiently. Furthermore, results indicated that many bakers would prefer baking as a career but are hindered by financing options and would need help as they could not meet microfinancing requirements. Baking has a great potential for communities in Sierra Leone for social entrepreneurship and illuminates appropriate technology in contributing to social change in Sierra Leone. The current global economic crisis was also a critical factor impacting bakers as the prices of supplies and cost of production have doubled.
Keywords: Baking, Dry Heat Ovens, Food Science, Appropriate Technology, Oven Designs, Social Change.
Title: Baking, Local Dry Heat Mud Ovens, and Appropriate Technology: Implications for Social Change in Sierra Leone
Author: Mariatu Kargbo, Dr. David A. Bull
International Journal of Thesis Projects and Dissertations (IJTPD)
Vol. 10, Issue 4, October 2022 - December 2022
Page No: 65-78
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published Date: 17-November-2022
