PäikesEST goes to Uganda

Crazy traffic in the capital and tranquility in the outskirts, red sand, exotic fruits, friendly faces – this was Uganda, an experience that amazed, surprised, and offered eye-opening moments.

We've initiated a joint project, financed by the Republic of Estonia, in partnership with the NGO Mondo. Our mission is to bring PäikesEST solar dryers to agricultural communities in Uganda, Kenya, and Georgia. As part of this initiative, we recently visited Uganda to engage with local farmers, understand the unique conditions they face, and, of course, firsthand experience the diverse and delicious farm produce that our solar dryers will help preserve. 

Uganda features an exceptionally rich natural and farming landscape, showcasing diverse crops. From coffee and jackfruit to banana trees mingling with mangoes and other delightful fruits, the country unfolds an array of agricultural wonders.

Notably, Uganda has a long history of diverse traditional farming practices. Many communities engage in mixed farming, cultivating multiple crops together. This traditional approach not only adds to the scenic variety but also serves as a strategic response to climate change. In the face of shifting climatic conditions, the practice of diversifying crops becomes a strategy for adaptation.

All that richness that agriculture and nature provides, can simply vanish when the rainy season arrives. Numerous fruits ripen, and farm produce becomes abundant. It is quite common for farmers to be unable to sell all their produce during this time, leading to quick spoilage. There can be many reasons why food  loss occurs. At times, a shortage of labor coincides with peak harvest, causing a surplus that cannot be efficiently managed. Additionally, the economic viability of harvesting may diminish due to a market price drop during the peak season. Insufficient storage facilities contribute to contamination by mold and pests, while the challenges of transportation on bumpy roads pose a risk of damaging the produce. It is the opposite during the dry season and then people suffer from food scarcity. 

The problem with the traditional sun-drying 

The rainy season brings about challenges in the traditional method of drying agricultural products, a key preservation technique. The heightened humidity and rain pose obstacles for farmers attempting to sun-dry their crops efficiently. The excess moisture can spoil the produce and result in uneven drying, causing variations in texture, taste, and nutritional content in the dried food.

Furthermore, there are concerns related to hygiene and contamination. Exposure to dirt, dust, insects, and animal droppings, coupled with the increased risk of fungi and molds, leads to the production of toxic chemicals like mycotoxins and aflatoxins. This not only jeopardizes the safety of the dried food but also poses a risk of foodborne illnesses and compromises its overall quality.

Drying food on the ground heightens its vulnerability to pests such as rodents and insects, which can compromise the quality by introducing pathogens and causing damage. Even common pets might find a cozy spot for a nap amidst the crops. 

Additionally, direct sunlight exposure can result in the produce being "sunburned," leading to undesirable browning and loss of color and nutrients.

Potential of solar drying 

While solar drying is not a novel idea in regions like Africa, its widespread and common usage is not prevalent. Initially, the concept seems logical, but it comes with its set of challenges.

Primarily, the drying process in Uganda adheres to a deeply traditional approach. Produce such as coffee, cassava, and fish is traditionally spread on the ground and left to dry directly under the sun—an age-old method passed down through generations. Altering these ingrained practices might necessitate comprehensive education and awareness programs.

PäikesEST solar dryers can help to preserve farm produce also during the rainy season. These innovative dryers operate efficiently without the constant need for direct sunlight, ensuring the safety of the produce during rainfall. This capability plays a crucial role in minimizing post-harvest losses.

In Uganda, a diverse range of farm produce can benefit from solar drying. Examples include sweet bananas, jackfruit, papaya, fish, chili, insects, herbs, and teas like hibiscus and cocoa.

Beyond preservation, solar dryers contribute to food security, long-term profitability, and a more flexible selling strategy for farmers. This means they don't have to sell all their produce during the high season, allowing them to maintain a nutrient supply for their families when food is scarce. This innovative approach can empower small-scale farmers to initiate agribusinesses and achieve higher incomes.

Beyond technology

When it comes to solar drying, the technology might not always be sufficient. There could be limited information on how solar dryers work, their potential to improve shelf life, and concerns about hygiene, etc.

Additionally, drying equipment is not affordable, as many families and farmers operate with very little money. There are worries about maintenance and the availability of technical support for solar drying equipment, which may discourage farmers from investing in such technologies. Farmers also need access to maintenance know-how.

These are all aspects that we keep in mind while carrying out the project. We offer training tailored to local needs and establish a local technical support system and access to the market. None of this can be achieved without our partners, NGO Mondo and MCAFS (in Uganda).

Hopefully, this pilot helps us gain a better understanding of how to bring more solar dryers to the market in an affordable and most useful way. It marks a promising beginning, and pioneers in the Nakaseke community will emerge to set an example of how drying can significantly impact the well-being of families. All the various farm produce that can be solar-dried, contributing to a better life for small-scale farmers and their families, is waiting to be harvested and preserved.

Author: Ingrid Kullerkupp

Project is financed by the Republic of Estonia