Home News Sun Power, Dual Harvest: East Africa Trials Agrivoltaics for Land and Food Security

Sun Power, Dual Harvest: East Africa Trials Agrivoltaics for Land and Food Security

by Grace Kisembo

In a region often synonymous with scorching sun and arid landscapes, a new agricultural technology is harnessing the very power of the sun to achieve a surprising feat: boosting food production. Enter agrivoltaics, a revolutionary concept that integrates solar panels with farmland, creating a win-win scenario for both energy generation and food security.

Pioneered by the Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) in collaboration with local stakeholders, agrivoltaics pilot projects are taking root in Kenya and Tanzania. “The panels are installed several meters above the ground, allowing farmers to cultivate crops and raise livestock underneath,” explains Dr. Margaret Muriuki, a researcher at CIFOR. “The shade provided by the panels not only protects crops from the harsh sun, but also reduces heat stress, leading to increased productivity and lower water loss.”

This is a welcome change for East African farmers grappling with the harsh realities of climate change. Reduced rainfall and scorching temperatures have severely impacted crop yields, threatening food security in the region. “For years, droughts have forced me to plant less and harvest even less,” says Joseph Otieno, a Kenyan farmer participating in the agrivoltaics project. “But with the shade from the panels, my maize is thriving, and I’m hopeful I can even try new crops that wouldn’t have survived the full sun.”

The benefits extend beyond immediate crop yields. The agrivoltaic systems also offer a vital source of clean energy for rural communities. “The panels generate electricity that can be used for lighting, irrigation, and even powering small appliances,” says Dr. Muriuki. “This not only improves the quality of life for farmers but also opens up new economic opportunities.”

However, challenges remain. The initial investment costs for setting up agrivoltaic systems can be high. “We’re working with governments, NGOs, and the private sector to develop financing models that make this technology accessible to more farmers,” says Dr. Muriuki. Additionally, research is ongoing to optimize panel placement and design for maximum agricultural benefit.

Despite the hurdles, the potential of agrivoltaics in East Africa is undeniable. “This is a groundbreaking approach that has the potential to transform our agricultural landscapes,” says Marcella Akumu, a sustainability expert based in Nairobi. “By harnessing the power of the sun for both food and energy, agrivoltaics can empower farmers, boost food security, and pave the way for a more sustainable future.”

The pilot projects in Kenya and Tanzania serve as a beacon of hope, demonstrating the potential of agrivoltaics to unlock a new era of land and food security in East Africa. With continued research, collaboration, and investment, this sunshine-powered solution could revolutionize agriculture in the region, ensuring a brighter future for both farmers and the environment.

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