Information Gaps and High Costs Hinder Solar Technology Adoption by Ugandan Farmers

Despite the availability of solar-powered equipment like water pumps and dryers that could significantly boost agricultural productivity and reduce post-harvest losses, adoption rates among smallholder farmers in Central Uganda remain disappointingly low. A two-year study conducted by Makerere University in collaboration with the Partnership for Economic Policy (PEP) revealed that a critical lack of information about these technologies, coupled with their substantial cost, are the primary reasons for this low uptake.

Researchers interacted with over 1,400 farmers across several districts, including Mpigi, Masaka, Mubende, and Kiboga. They found that only a handful of farmers were aware of and had managed to acquire these technologies, largely due to government subsidies. Dr. Florence Lwiza, a research fellow involved in the study, highlighted that while farmers express interest, the complexities of accessing the technology and the requirement for co-funding present major obstacles. “The subsidies are there but farmers are not going ahead to take up these products,” Dr. Lwiza stated, emphasizing that “information is still scanty on the ground.”

The cost remains a significant deterrent. Solar water pumps can range from Shs1.2 million to Shs5 million, and solar shellers cost around Shs10 million. Although the government subsidizes 60% of the cost, the remaining 40% contribution is still too high for many farmers, pushing them towards less environmentally friendly options like diesel and petrol-powered equipment.

Professor Edward Bbaale, the principal investigator, acknowledged the government’s efforts in subsidizing clean energy equipment but stressed the need for more affordable solutions. He suggested that creating economic policy instruments to incentivize local fabrication of these technologies could improve affordability and accessibility.

Additionally, the study pointed to high inspection fees (around Shs200,000) and the limited proximity of agri-tech firms as further barriers. Dr. Aisha Nanyiti, a co-investigator, recommended reducing these fees and improving farmer trust and understanding of the inspection process. Engaged district agricultural officers and engineers are also crucial for disseminating information to farmers at the grassroots level, according to Jennifer Oyo from the Ministry of Agriculture.

This research was published in the Daily Monitor.