Paul Intwari, an engineer working with ETS Construction Company in Kigali, told IGIHE during a recent interview that farmers in various parts of the country are increasingly adopting solar-powered pumps.
Intwari is one of the experts helping farmers adopt new farming techniques by designing and installing solar-powered pump systems. He primarily works with farmers engaged in irrigation farming.
'We start by designing the system and support the farmers through installation and training on how to use it,' Intwari said.
IGIHE caught up with Intwari at the 17th Rwanda Agriculture Show, where ETS Company is showcasing various tools and machines that farmers can use to take their farming to a new level.
A civil engineer by training, the 31-year-old revealed that most of the farmers buying their equipment are engaged in fruit, vegetable, and bean farming.
According to him, most of the farmers embracing solar-powered pumps have done so due to the low maintenance costs. While the initial cost of purchasing a solar system is high, it is relatively inexpensive to maintain in the long run compared to fuel-powered pumps.
"We recommend that clients use solar because it has minimal maintenance costs. Additionally, the pumps reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon emissions," he said.
To meet the growing demand for solar-powered pumps, ETS Construction Company has partnered with Lorentz, a Germany-based company renowned for manufacturing a wide range of solar pumps.
"We offer various types of pumps. We have small pumps suited for small-scale farmers involved in livestock and irrigation, as well as larger pumps that can serve over 10 hectares, including submersible pumps," the engineer explained.
The prices for a complete kit comprising a solar panel, pump, and its accessories, including pipes, start from Rwf2 million. Advanced pump systems suitable for large-scale commercial farming range between Rwf100 million and Rwf120 million.
Government Subsidies
Claude Rugirangoga, an irrigation engineer with Open Construction and Related Services Ltd, said that subsidies offered by the government have significantly contributed to the uptake of solar-powered pumps.
The government has been actively promoting solar energy and sustainable agricultural practices, including providing subsidies and financial support for solar-powered technologies.
Rugirangoga noted that the Rwanda Agriculture Board (RAB), in collaboration with development partners, supports farmers with up to 75% financing to purchase solar kits.
'Farmers interested in the subsidy are required to visit their sector offices and fill out forms to apply for it. If approved, they pay only 25% of the cost for the kits, while the government covers the remaining amount,' Rugirangoga explained.
The grants are also available to farmers seeking to buy tractors to improve their farming. Farmers can access up to 70% financing, according to Didier Nahayo, the Commercial Director at Rwanda Motor.
Rugirangoga, like Intwari, agrees that farming with solar-powered pumps is more profitable compared to petrol or diesel-powered pumps.
'Solar pumps are cost-effective as you make a one-time payment when buying,' he said.
However, he observed that the main disadvantage of the pumps is the limited number of technicians available.
The 17th Rwanda Agriculture Show kicked off at Mulindi/Gasabo Showground on July 31, 2024. The exhibition will close on August 9, 2024.
The show provides farmers and companies with an opportunity to showcase their products and services, while also facilitating extensive networking opportunities.
Many people attend the expos to connect with industry experts, explore the latest technologies and innovations, and engage in meaningful discussions that could lead to new collaborations and business ventures.
"I am here to learn the best farming practices from big farmers," Francois Bizimana, a pig farmer from Musanze, revealed.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
