Solar-Powered Irrigation Sparks Agricultural Transformation in Ganze Sub-County, Empowering Farmers and Boosting Yields
Over the years, farmers in Ganze Sub-County have faced significant challenges due to ongoing drought and frequent crop attacks by stray elephants. Reliant on scarce and often contaminated water supplies, they have struggled to practice sustainable farming through irrigation. However, a collaborative effort to address these issues has led to the establishment of a solar-powered irrigation system in Milore, marking a turning point for the local farming community.
Solar-powered system established at Milore water-pan, Ganze sub-county
Innovative Solutions for Sustainable Farming
To combat the effects of climate change and build resilience, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), in collaboration with PlantVillage, Pwani University, and the Rotary Club, with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Current and Emerging Threats to Crops (CETC IL), successfully implemented a solar-powered irrigation system. This innovative project is managed by the Milore Muungano Community-Based Organization (CBO), consisting of 34 dedicated members.
Milore irrigation site in Ganze sub-county
The system utilizes advanced agricultural techniques, including, wick capillaries, moist beds, drips, and biochar to cultivate okra covering a quarter-acre piece of land. The techniques ensure efficient water distribution to the plants, retention of moisture and controlled water delivery to crops minimizing wastage.
Irrigation techniques utilized at the Milore irrigation site
From Water-Intensive Methods to Efficient Irrigation
Before adopting the solar-powered irrigation system, the farmers in Milore practiced farming using shallow basins, which consumed a significant amount of water. Given that the area receives little rainfall and the community relies on one water source (Milore water-pan), this method was not sustainable and often led to poor yields. The transition to the new irrigation system has brought about a remarkable change in the farming practices and outcomes.
Shallow basin technique
Jackson Chome, the chairperson of the Milore Muungano CBO, expressed the positive impact of the new system. "The solar-powered irrigation system has motivated the farmers since it’s working so well, and the yields have increased in the three months that we have practiced it," he said.
Economic and Social Impact
The increased yields have not only improved food security but also provided economic benefits to the farmers. “Since we started harvesting in June to date we have managed to collect a total of 811 kilograms of okra,” Chome stated. He further noted that the group sells their produce at nearby marketplaces and to the local community at 60 shillings per kilo. The profit has enabled members to pay school fees for their children, significantly improving their quality of life.
The chairperson also advised fellow farmers to keep up the good work to ensure success of the project and provide a learning hub for other smallholder farmers in the region. “ I commend the parties involved in setting up this project here, it has provided hope to the farmers and we wish to receive more support to keep the system going.”
Moreover, the project has played a vital role in women empowerment. Out of the 34 members, 23 are women who have actively participated and learned about the new irrigation system. This participation has provided them with valuable skills and a sense of empowerment, contributing to gender equality in the community.
Milore Muungano CBO members posing for a photo at the irrigation site
"Since 2022, I have been farming vegetables after elephants destroyed our maize farms. Due to the lack of adequate water supply, I have been using shallow basins for farming, which retain water much longer than traditional methods," said Santa Julius, a member of the Milore Muungano CBO.
She observed that after participating in the built irrigation system using capillary wicks, moist beds and drips she realized little water was used compared to the shallow basins and the yields were relatively high. “This technology is good, it best suits our challenging environment. I cannot wait to implement it in my farm through the skills I have attained,” Santa noted.
Santa Julius harvesting okra at the Milore farm
A Model for Future Projects
The success of the solar-powered irrigation system in Milore serves as a model for similar initiatives in other drought-prone regions. By leveraging sustainable farming practices and innovative technologies, communities can build resilience against climate change and improve their livelihoods.
Prof. John Wesonga addressing Milore Muungano CBO farmers at Milore
John Wesonga, an Associate Professor in the Department of Horticulture and Food Security at JKUAT, highlighted the importance of incorporating climate-friendly initiatives into the project. "We installed a solar pump to promote environmentally sustainable irrigation while making work easier for the farmers," he explained. The project also emphasizes organic practices, including the use of neem tree solution for pest control and enhancing plant health.
“This project has helped farmers in the region and made their activities easier,” said Agnes Kadzo PlantVillage officer. She noted that accessing fuel had been a major challenge, forcing farmers to rely on water jerry cans to transport water from the water-pan for irrigation. Kadzo also commended the group for their dedication and hard work in ensuring the project's success.
Agnes Kadzo, PlantVillage officer during a field visit at the Milore irrigation site
Looking ahead, there are plans to introduce the farming of cowpeas, which will enrich the soil with essential nutrients, and to place beehives strategically to deter elephants from invading the farms. Professor Wesonga lauded the farmers for their dedication and success so far and mentioned that there is a future plan to grow high-value crops and fruit trees to ensure the community continues to reap profits and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Similar pilot-phase irrigation systems were also constructed in Chumani and Kaya Godoma, Kilifi County, benefiting an additional 24 farmers.