Farmers embrace solar energy

16 October 2025, 4:36 pm

By Philip Onyango 

Farmers in Nakaseke North are embracing renewable energy technologies through the Distributed Renewable Energy Ecosystem Model (DREEM) hub project, led by Heifer International. 

The DREEM project is a three year program implemented by Heifer International with support from Mott Foundation, aimed to enhance the resilience of smallholder farmers to climate change impacts by promoting the productive use of solar energy services (PUSE).

The initiative is transforming lives by improving access to clean energy and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Speaking during media tour, Rwakyaka Benon, a farmer and chairperson of Kijjumba Dairy Farmers Cooperative Society Limited in Buwankuvillage, Ngoma subcounty, Nakaseke North shared how solar-powered solutions have revitalized his dairy farming operations. 

With the ability to pump water, power a chaff cutter, and preserve milk using a solar chilling system, he now collects over 75 litres of milk daily.

According to Edna Nyamwaka, project Manager, Heifer International Uganda, the DREEM project aims to support 20,000 smallholder farmers across Uganda, focusing on the productive use of solar energy to create economic opportunities for underserved youth and women.

” We have trained over 1,000 women and youth in agribusiness, introducing 30 plus university students to agricultural technology applications.” Said Edna Nyamwaka.

The project has established public learning centres for solar-powered agricultural practices, supporting seven model farms with solar and water systems. She added

Edna adds that the project has helped three cooperatives install commercial-scale solar units at milk collection centres.

The DREEM project has also established the Nyakalongo Water Supply System, providing clean water to over 700 households, and solarized over 1,500 families and six cooperatives. Plans are underway to equip over 20 additional milk collection centres.

Grace Nuwatekateka, a farmer from Kalyaburo Village, disclosed that she received solar-powered equipment from Heifer International, enabling her to irrigate crops, pump water to her farm, produce silage, and preserve milk effectively. 

However, she encourages more farmers to adopt renewable energy technologies to strengthen their dairy businesses and secure sustainable livelihoods.