Overall Sector Shifts:  

1. DeepTech will move from concept to application  

DeepTech, those breakthrough innovations at the intersection of technology and science, is no longer the exclusive domain of Silicon Valley. With the launch of the Uganda DeepTech Centre of Excellence in late 2024 by the Future Lab and its partners, a bold step towards fostering applied research and commercialization, we anticipate that 2025 will be the year DeepTech startups take the centre stage in Uganda. 

Agritech solutions (leveraging artificial intelligence), Climate Tech innovations (aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change), and FinTech platforms (designed to deepen financial inclusion) will all gain traction. This shift will not just attract global investors but also position Uganda as a hub for solving Africa’s most pressing challenges through innovation.   

2. The gig economy will mature  

With platforms like Mavens Talent Network and Flip Africa leading the charge, the gig economy in Uganda will transition from an emerging trend to a structured market segment. By addressing the critical challenges of skills development, labour policies, and reliable income streams for freelancers, 2025 will see the gig economy mature into a vital pillar of Uganda’s labour market. 

During the Freelancer’s Summit last year, it became evident that partnerships between platforms, governments, and educational institutions hold the key to success. This year, we predict an uptick in these collaborations, which will enable freelancers to thrive in a digital-first economy.  

3. Youth-led innovations will define the narrative 

Uganda is one of the youngest nations globally, with 70% of the population below 30 years, and its youth are the heartbeat of its startup ecosystem. In 2025, we will see this demographic assert its influence even more boldly. From young innovators creating solutions that tackle unemployment to community-driven solutions addressing urgent challenges, youth-led initiatives will set the tone for what’s possible.  

The rise of youth-focused programs, mentorship opportunities, and funding pools tailored for young entrepreneurs will further amplify their potential. At The Village, we’re proud to champion initiatives like the Future of Work, which empower young people to shape their futures.  

4. Africa’s story will be told by Africans  

2025 will mark a pivotal moment in narrative ownership. For too long, the story of African innovation has been told from an outsider’s perspective. This year, Ugandan startups will harness the power of storytelling to share their successes and challenges authentically. Platforms like Tech Cabal Insights, with whom we partnered to release the Digital Economy Outlook report, are setting a precedent for data-driven narratives that centre African voices. 

Expect to see Ugandan entrepreneurs take to global stages, not as underdogs but as equals contributing to the global knowledge economy. 

5. Renewable energy will power new markets  

Access to affordable and sustainable energy remains a significant challenge for rural communities. Yet, 2025 will bring an exciting shift as renewable energy solutions, particularly solar, expand their reach. Our roundtable discussions with WWF in 2024 highlighted the potential of renewable energy in unlocking opportunities in key agricultural value chains like fisheries and dairy. This year, we foresee these interventions scaling, with startups leveraging renewable energy to power off-grid operations and enable smallholder farmers to access modern tools and markets. 

Funding: 

6. Investors will double down on Impact  

Gone are the days when venture capitalists prioritized returns above all else. In 2025, the narrative around funding will be increasingly tied to impact. Global shifts in investment priorities spurred by climate change, economic inequalities, and social inclusion will resonate within Uganda’s borders. At Innovation Village, we’ve observed this firsthand in our programs where impact metrics now form a core part of the evaluation criteria for startups. 

We expect to see more impact funds, blended finance models, and corporate venture initiatives targeting startups with a clear social and environmental value proposition. And as the startup ecosystem grows more adept at communicating impact, Uganda will attract a diverse range of funders.  

7. A shrink in the climate and gender lens investing  

The anticipated policy shifts suggest potential funding challenges in the climate and gender lens space. Reduced international climate finance, changes in sustainable investing trends, and the de-prioritization of gender equity initiatives could collectively affect Uganda’s capacity to attract and sustain investments aimed at fostering environmental sustainability and gender inclusivity. However, Trump administration’s full impact on climate and gender lens investing in Uganda continue to unfold with time.  

Policy and Ecosystem Development:  

8. Policy will finally catch up  

In 2024, we laid the groundwork for a long-overdue conversation around regulatory frameworks for startups. While there’s still a gap between policy and practice, 2025 promises significant progress. The Uganda Startup Act, expected to take shape this year, will provide much needed clarity on taxation, intellectual property, and access to capital. 

Startups, especially in highly regulated sectors like FinTech and HealthTech, will benefit from this streamlined regulatory environment, spurring innovation and reducing the friction that has stifled growth in the past.   

9. Collaborative ecosystems will outperform isolated efforts  

One of the greatest lessons from our journey has been the power of collaboration. Whether it’s co-developing solutions with entrepreneurs at the Innovation Village or partnering with global organizations like Heifer International to build value chains, 2025 will highlight the importance of ecosystem building. Innovation hubs, coworking spaces, and accelerators will increasingly become melting pots for cross sectoral collaboration. This trend will not only support startups in accessing resources but also drive partnerships that create solutions with far-reaching impact.  

Creative Industries:   

10. CreaTech | The intersection of technology and Creative industries   

In 2025, the creative industry in Uganda will increasingly integrate technology into their processes, from production to distribution. Platforms like MoTIV will play a pivotal role in driving this transformation by providing access to tools, training, and marketplaces that empower creatives to leverage digital tools for scaling their work. This will include innovations such as 3D printing for product design, augmented reality for immersive storytelling, and NFTs for intellectual property protection.  

11. Global Market access for creatives   

With initiatives like the Africa Creatives Alliance, African creatives will see expanded opportunities to access global markets. Digital platforms and curated collaborations with international networks will enable creatives to position themselves as key contributors to global trends in design, fashion, music, and film. Expect significant growth in the export of cultural and creative products.

12. Sustainability-driven creativity   

The creative sector will lean into sustainability practices, with many supported artisans and designers prioritizing eco-friendly materials and production methods. This shift will align with global consumer trends favouring ethical products, giving Ugandan creatives a competitive edge in environmentally conscious markets. 

Research to Industry Integration:  

13. Applied research centres as catalysts for commercialisation  

The establishment of initiatives such as the Uganda DeepTech Centre of Excellence will result in a need for a bridge between research institutions and industry players. This year, there will be a stronger emphasis on translating research into viable products and solutions, particularly in areas like AgriTech, mobility, and ClimateTech. This will be driven by collaborations with innovators at the Village and research hubs across Uganda.  

14. University Industry partnerships for local solutions   

Expect more targeted partnerships between academia and industry players to address pressing local challenges. These partnerships will foster innovations like drought-resistant crop varieties, renewable energy solutions tailored for off-grid communities, and scalable fintech platforms. The research to industry pipeline will be supported by knowledge-sharing events, funding opportunities, and mentorship programs provided by innovation ecosystems. 

In conclusion, as 2025 unfolds, the momentum within Uganda’s startup ecosystem is undeniable. We are standing on the cusp of transformative growth, fuelled by innovation, collaboration, and resilience. At The Village, our commitment remains steadfast: to nurture this ecosystem, support entrepreneurs, and champion the bold ideas shaping our future. 

The future is not something to predict, it is something we create. Let’s get to work!  

The post Our 2025 Predictions for Uganda’s Startup Ecosystem  appeared first on Innovation Village.

In 2002, at the age of 16, Grace’s schooling at Keyo Primary School was abruptly cut short when she was abducted by LRA rebels and forced into marriage with a soldier. For three years, she endured the harrowing jungles with her captors, bore a son, and suffered injuries from crossfire. Her eventual rescue by Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) was only the beginning of her recovery. 

With bullet wounds on her leg that left her mobility impaired, Grace spent months under medical care before joining a Child of War Centre managed by World Vision. There, she was introduced to tailoring skills but found herself physically unable to operate a sewing machine. 

Undeterred, she focused on rebuilding her life, marrying a fellow former abductee and transitioning to subsistence farming near St. Mauritz Catholic Mission. The couple raised goats and chickens, cultivated staples like cassava and groundnuts, and leveraged her husband’s driving skills to eventually secure a boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) on hire purchase. 

Turning the Tide with Soap-Making  

For Grace, true transformation began when she heard a radio announcement from Gulu Women Economic Development and Globalisation (GWEDG) about capacity-building programs. She enrolled in a soap-making initiative facilitated by the Innovation Village, drawn to the accessibility of raw materials and the potential to sell her products locally.  

With determination and guidance, Grace learned the craft of making liquid soap using basic ingredients such as sulphonic acid, caustic soda, and urea—all available in Gulu’s local shops. Water, another key component, was in ample supply thanks to a nearby borehole. 

With her homemade equipment—a basin, a long wooden stirring stick, and jerrycans for packaging—Grace created her brand, “Lubanga Matwero” a local word for (God Knows). She packaged her soap in measures ranging from small, recycled bottles to larger containers of up to 20 litres. Selling her products at UGX 10,000 for 5 litres, UGX 20,000 for 10 litres, and UGX 40,000 for 20 litres, Grace secured a steady income. 

GWEDG together with the Innovation Village provided reliable market platforms for her larger quantities of products, while she personally distributed smaller packages in her community, despite the challenges of her disability. 

Grace takes pride in her branded record books, which demonstrate the profitability of her venture. But for her, the rewards go beyond financial gain. “Apart from the profits, I have now achieved community recognition for providing a service,” she says. Her liquid soap has become a staple for cleaning floors, utensils, and other household tasks, filling a gap in her community and enhancing her sense of purpose. 

A Light in the Darkness 

Grace’s story is emblematic of the broader struggles faced by former war victims in northern Uganda’s post-conflict recovery impact. During that period over 30,000 children were abducted by the LRA, according to ActionAid Uganda, subjected to unspeakable atrocities, and left grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and socioeconomic alienation.  

For most rehabilitation has been a long, complex, and costly process, marked by frustrations and setbacks. Economic statistics paint a stark picture of the region’s struggles. The Uganda National Household Survey (UNHS) of 2016/17 and 2019/20 reported that while national consumption per capita grew modestly, northern Uganda experienced a decline, with subsistence farming rising from 31.6% to 40% in the Acholi subregion. 

Yet stories like Grace’s highlight the potential for survivors to rise above their circumstances. Amid these challenges, Grace’s narrative stands as a beacon of hope, demonstrating how skills training and community-driven initiatives can help individuals transition from subsistence to sustainable livelihoods. 

Her ability to transition from a war victim to a subsistence farmer then a small-scale entrepreneur is a testament to the power of resilience and targeted capacity-building initiatives.  

As northern Uganda continues to grapple with post-conflict reconstruction and deep economic disparities, Grace Anena’s journey serves as a powerful testament to the transformative potential of grassroots empowerment. Her resilience demonstrates how investing in individual capacities can rebuild lives, inspire others, and catalyze social and economic change. No longer defined solely as a war survivor, Grace has become a mother, a businesswoman, and a beacon of hope for her community. While her scars narrate a history of pain, her life now embodies courage, determination, and the promise of a brighter future. 

The post Rising from the Shadows of War Abduction to Entrepreneurship  appeared first on Innovation Village.

According to the International Energy Agency, this lack of access continues to stall progress in sectors critical to the continent’s future, such as agriculture, manufacturing, and health. Women, who contribute roughly 50% of Africa’s GDP, also remain underutilized, and the growing disparity between funding needs and availability further compounds the problem. 

Yet, amid these challenges lies an immense opportunity, one that can be unlocked through the power of collaborative ecosystems, adoption to renewable energy, and innovative funding models. As African economies navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing world, strategic partnerships and purposeful investment are proving to be essential levers in driving the continent’s sustainable growth. 

Catalyzing change through Distributed Renewable Energy Ecosystems 

Since the early 2000s, the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation has been at the forefront of initiatives designed to expand energy access in Africa. Their Distributed Renewable Energy Ecosystem Model (DREEM) presents a collaborative approach that can drive profound change. This model connects stakeholders across East Africa, particularly in agriculture, to boost the Productive Use of Solar Energy (PUSE) in hard-to-reach communities. By integrating aquaculture, dairy, and horticulture value chains, DREEM fosters innovation, economic opportunity, and environmental sustainability. 

According to Robert Ddamulira, Mott Foundation’s Program Officer for Advancing Climate Change Solutions, “The DREEM model exemplifies the power of building a collaborative ecosystem to boost the productive use of solar energy in rural Sub-Saharan Africa. This approach fosters innovation and resilience, particularly in sectors where individual actors may struggle to effect meaningful change by forging strategic connections among stakeholders across the agriculture value chain.” 

Ddamulira said, “The model not only addresses energy challenges but also aligns itself with climate action, reducing reliance on diesel generators and cutting harmful environment emissions. We focus on last-mile users ensuring that marginalized communities, often excluded from national development agendas, can access and benefit from clean energy solutions. This inclusivity strengthens local economies, improves health outcomes, and accelerates progress toward a sustainable, climate-resilient future.” Ddamulira emphasized.  

Strategic Collaboration: The Backbone of Sustainable Solutions 

One of the key insights emerging from the recent DREEM partner engagement, held by Innovation Village in collaboration with Heifer International, is the pivotal role of strategic partnerships in bridging Africa’s energy gap. Attendees, including prominent figures like Neal Hegarty, Vice President of Programs at the Mott Foundation, and representatives from Ashoka, Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC), EED Advisory, Worldwide Fund for Nature and Africa Centre for Media Excellence (ACME), emphasized that effective collaboration across the ecosystem is essential for scale. 

Joyce Irungu, Director at EED Advisory pointed to the significant funding gap in Africa’s renewable energy sector, highlighting that only 10% of the $250 million needed is currently available. More concerning, much of this funding is going to foreign entities. To change this, African organizations must be empowered to absorb and manage funds. 

 “We need to equip local organizations with the frameworks and support necessary to utilize available funds effectively,” says Irungu. This includes tailoring funding requirements to local contexts and offering long-term technical assistance to entrepreneurs. 

According to Joseph Murabula, Executive Chief Officer at Kenya Climate Innovation (KCIC), “The work of KCIC, has supported over 3,500 renewable energy entrepreneurs, emphasizing the importance of this approach. KCIC’s efforts focus on building the capacity of entrepreneurs, especially in underserved remote areas. Adding, mentorship is often more critical than immediate capital. “Entrepreneurs must understand that expert guidance and support are key to long-term success.” Murabula added.  

Energy Access: A catalyst for Agricultural Transformation 

In Uganda, Heifer International has for the past years demonstrated how energy access can accelerate agricultural productivity. Alternative Solar energy solutions introduced by Heifer to dairy farmers have improved milk preservation, reduced emissions, and enhanced productivity. With only 22% of Ugandans connected to the national grid, these off-grid solutions are transformational. William Matovu, Country Director for Heifer Uganda, emphasizes that “the introduction of solar energy centers has allowed farmers to increase productivity and improve their livelihoods.” 

“Beyond solar, Heifer is also exploring biogas as a renewable energy alternative, further empowering farmers in the country where access to main power grid remains limited. This holistic approach aligns with Heifer’s mission to end hunger while caring for the planet, showcasing how energy access can act as a powerful enabler for broader socio-economic development” Matovu said.  

Empowering Africa’s Women and Entrepreneurs 

Africa’s economic future cannot be unlocked without tapping into its greatest potential, its women and young entrepreneurs.  

Arthur Mukembo, Lead, FutureLab at Innovation Village, stresses that women, who contribute around half of Africa’s GDP, remain underutilized. Empowering them, along with fostering entrepreneurial talent across the continent, is crucial to achieving sustainable growth. Highlighting the four interconnected pillars needed to foster an entrepreneurial ecosystem, Mukembo said, the Innovation Village is committed to developing productive talent, ensuring enterprise viability, stimulating markets, and ensuring accessibility in rural areas as it orchestrates change to unlock the Africa’s potential.  

Mukembo said, “By embracing a corporate entrepreneurship mindset and leveraging deep technology, Africa’s innovators can shape a future where sustainable, scalable solutions are the norm. Through DREEM, we are connecting innovative solar entrepreneurs with the capital and resources they need to create lasting impact in underserved communities.” 

Mukembo added that fostering collaboration across policy, markets, and talent is key to ensuring that Africa architects its own future. 

In a nutshell, the recently concluded DREEM partner engagement serves as a powerful reminder of the role collaborative ecosystems play in shaping Africa’s future. By connecting diverse stakeholders from government and NGOs to entrepreneurs and financiers such initiatives drive inclusive development, create market-ready solutions, and foster sustainability. 

As Africa continues to grapple with complex challenges, it is through the convergence of innovation, partnership, and a shared commitment to inclusive growth that the continent’s potential can truly be unlocked. Whether through renewable energy solutions or the empowerment of local entrepreneurs, the path forward is clear and can be powered by collaboration, sustainability, and bold, innovative thinking. 

The post Unlocking Africa’s Potential through Collaborative Ecosystems  appeared first on Innovation Village.

Gifted with rich biodiversity, natural resources, and breathtaking landscapes, and backed by a comprehensive National e-mobility strategy and proactive government policies, Uganda is positioning itself as a pioneer in creating sustainable transportation solutions, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and promoting domestic value addition. 

Spearheading this transformation is Kiira Motors Corporation, an entity driving the nation’s bold move towards sustainable and cutting-edge automotive innovation by manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs) tailored to the needs of Ugandans, with support from the Science, Technology, and Innovation Secretariat (STI) under the Office of the President, alongside other partners. 

E-mobility, or electric mobility is defined as the use of electric vehicles (EVs) powered by batteries or hydrogen fuel cells. The sector encompasses a wide range of vehicles, from light-duty automobiles to medium- and heavy-duty electric vehicles, as well as electric micro-mobility devices and transit vehicles or motorcycles.   

To date, the global e-mobility sector is rapidly expanding, with the market projected to surge from USD 280 billion in 2021 to an astounding USD 1.5 trillion by 2030, reflecting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 27.2%. However, this growth comes with significant environmental costs, as the mobility sector is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In Africa, transportation accounts for about 10% of total emissions, and as sub-Saharan Africa’s vehicle market expands—from 25 million vehicles in 2021 to over 58 million by 2040—the need for sustainable alternatives becomes increasingly urgent. 

Why the adoption of e-mobility? 

Traditionally, the urban public transport landscape in Uganda is dominated by two-wheeler boda-bodas (motorcycles) and aging 14-seater Matatus (repurposed cargo vans). While these vehicles are integral to the country’s transport system, they present challenges, including high energy costs, maintenance expenses, limited product safety and quality, and low ownership rates.  

Hence the adoption of e-mobility offers a promising solution, presenting an opportunity to transition to non-polluting, efficient, and cost-effective transportation options.  

In his State of the Nation Address on June 6th, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni emphasized the need for this shift, highlighting that moving from petrol to electric vehicles as the most sustainable path forward, with Uganda’s goal to fully transition to electric vehicles within the next 20 years, marking a significant step toward a greener future. 

This financial year, the government of Uganda made a decisive move to prioritize e-mobility as a key driver of economic development. This strategic focus includes a substantial allocation of UGX 32.5 billion to Kiira Motors Corporation, aimed at fully operationalizing the electric vehicle (EV) plant. 

Alongside this financial support, the government has introduced significant tax exemptions for suppliers of electric motorcycles, vehicles manufactured or fabricated in Uganda, as well as their respective charging stations and batteries. This policy shift is designed to facilitate the growth of e-mobility and make electric cars and motorcycles more affordable for Ugandans.  

Benefits and opportunities for this transition  

Uganda’s widespread adoption of e-mobility is positioned to catalyze a significant transformation in the nation’s economy and social fabric. By embracing this shift, Uganda can substantially contribute to its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) and reduce its carbon footprint by up to 25% by 2040. Moreover, transitioning to cleaner energy solutions will lessen the country’s dependence on fuel imports and fossil fuels.  

Research indicates that even at low penetration rates, the uptake of electric vehicles can improve air quality and reduce asthma-related or other respiratory emergency room visits, helping mitigate the high health burden of  in Uganda and reducing the over 13,000 deaths attributed to air pollution annually. 

Additionally, developing a robust domestic e-mobility value chain is expected to spur green industry growth, creating over 42,000 direct jobs for Ugandans. These jobs will span the entire value chain, from research and development (R&D) to product development, manufacturing, sales, and maintenance, requiring new skills to support the rollout of electric vehicles.  

For vehicle owners and operators, the transition to electric vehicles offers lower maintenance and operational costs. To put this into perspective, the total cost of ownership of an electric vehicle, including the purchase price, maintenance, and operation costs, is approximately 60% of that of a diesel equivalent. The cost of energy for electric vehicles is 20-22% of the petrol or diesel equivalent, though the initial purchase cost remains higher. However, as e-mobility technology advances and the adoption of electric vehicles increases, purchase costs are anticipated to decline rapidly. 

Despite these numerous benefits and efforts, adopting e-mobility in Uganda is not without challenges. Key hurdles include policy alignment, establishing operating standards and regulations for electric vehicles and related technologies, infrastructure development, and the need for strategic frameworks to promote domestic manufacturing and facilitate nationwide uptake of electric vehicles continue to deter Uganda’s efforts towards achieving a fully functioning e-mobility sector.  

Uganda’s journey toward e-mobility is poised at accelerating pathways for a sustainable green future. The National E-Mobility Strategy represents a transformative shift in transportation and energy consumption, with the potential to contribute to national development. Through coordinated efforts between the government and the private sector, it is essential to create reliable public charging points and fast-charging stations across the country, catalyzing the growth of electric vehicles and reducing their prices.

The post UGANDA’S JOURNEY TOWARDS BUILDING THE E-MOBILITY SECTOR  appeared first on Innovation Village.

Today, Daily Monitor, KPMG, and partners including Innovation Village, Equity Bank, and Uganda Securities Exchange, launched the 16th edition of the #Top100SMEs survey under the theme “Empowering SMEs for a Monetized Uganda: Catalyzing Growth through Innovation, Sustainability, and Market Access.” 

Peter Kyambadde, partner at KPMG Uganda, said that the Top 100 SME Survey aims to gain a deeper understanding of Uganda’s SME landscape and explore ways to help indigenous SMEs expand their brands beyond local boundaries. “The survey is designed to create a comprehensive industry database, facilitate access to critical market growth opportunities, assist policymakers in informed decision-making, and provide a platform for collaboration and interaction among industry partners and other stakeholders.” 

In her opening remarks, Susan Nsibirwa, Managing Director of Nation Media Group, highlighted the importance of building business resilience through innovation. She stressed that in today’s uncertain global economic environment, businesses must continually adapt and innovate to stay competitive.  

“Innovation goes beyond creating new products or services; it involves improving business processes, enhancing customer experiences, and finding more efficient ways to operate. By integrating innovation into core strategies, SMEs can better withstand market fluctuations, respond to evolving consumer demands, and seize new growth opportunities,” she Said  

Nsibirwa further noted that fostering an innovative mindset is crucial for overcoming barriers such as limited market access and financial constraints, ensuring that SMEs not only survive but thrive and contribute to the country’s economic development and stability. 

Arthur Mukembo, Future Lab Lead at Innovation Village, emphasized that while innovation is essential for business scalability, it is not sufficient on its own. Access to markets beyond local boundaries is vital for SME growth and sustainability. 

 “While innovation drives business development and competitive advantage, market access is what sustains and scales these businesses. Without the ability to reach customers beyond their immediate environment, SMEs miss out on vital opportunities for revenue growth and diversification,” Mukembo said.  

Mukembo said enhancing market access requires improvements in physical and digital infrastructure, navigating regulatory environments, and fostering partnerships that open doors to regional and international markets. Today the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) offers a significant opportunity for Ugandan SMEs to reach a global audience, overcoming geographical limitations and unlocking new revenue streams. 

The path toward monetizing Uganda’s SME sector demands a collective effort from all ecosystem stakeholders, starting with policymakers. 

According to Edgar Mukasa, Associate Director, Tax and Regulatory Services, KPMG Uganda, “This financial year, the government has outlined four strategic economic drivers including Agro-Industrialization Development and Value Addition, Tourism Development, a Knowledge-Based Economy through Science, Innovation, and Technology, and Mineral-Based Industrial Development. By focusing on these areas, Uganda aims to build a resilient economy capable of handling global economic uncertainties, creating sustainable jobs, and improving the quality of life for its citizens. SMEs are encouraged to align their business strategies with these national growth priorities to contribute to the country’s economic prosperity, Mukasa emphasized. 

The post SMEs Urged to Build for Sustainability Through Innovation  appeared first on Innovation Village.

Almost 12 years later, he’s now a fully-fledged businessman and runs Harbby Products Services- Uganda, a business specializing in the industrial formulation and processing of mosquito repellents in form of body jelly for smearing and candles for lighting. 

His products- Mos-guard candles and Mos-guard jelly provide protection from mosquitoes and ultimately, more hours of uninterrupted sleep.  

His story epitomizes resilience, determination, grit and the relentless pursuit for success.

The passionate 24-year-old Ugandan entrepreneur ditched his charcoal business because it was environmentally unsustainable and decided to join a skills hub in his home district to acquire industrial formulation skills to continue earning an income, but also make a positive impact in his community through skilling – a subject we shall return to later!

Kiyimba used his savings and support from family to start a production line in 2020, first with Harbby Jelly- a product targeting people with skin challenges such as black spots, severe pimples, skin rushes and those that needed skin protection and nourishment without bleaching agents. He later diversified into Mos-guards!

“Through ideation, I came up with another product that could provide with all the above mentioned uses but also offer protection to the users against mosquito bites. In this ideation, we formulated Mos-guard Jelly, and this was later followed by Mos-guard candles,” he explains.

Market scale

In the last three years, his business has grown to serve major markets through selling agents within the central and western regions in the districts of Mukono and Entebbe (Abaita Ababiri), and in Ntungamo and Mbarara. He also runs two production lines in the cities of Entebbe and Mbarara.

“Our market size is still small; however, we are trying to create awareness about the product’s existence through marketing. Those who have tested our products testify about their effectiveness and have joined our clients’ cue,” he says. 

Kiyimba’s typical day in production begins with preparing the production tools; the heaters, pans, melting dishes, measuring tools, and the production protective equipment for safety; formulations are gauged, and production begins.

He says a total weight of inputs estimated at about 40 kgs worth UGX 332,000 can yield output valued at a gross revenue of UGX 867,300 and this makes a gross profit of UGX 535,300. His product pricing ranges from as low as Shs 1,000 for a 60-gram Mos-guard jelly tin to 500 grams at Shs 17,000, while his candles are priced at Shs 8600 for a sachet of 12 pieces, and Shs 5,000 for a sachet of 8 pieces.

Joining the Next Wave program

Kiyimba attributes his innovation success to the Next Wave programme at the Innovation Village in Ntinda where he pursued knowledge and skills to improve his product branding and packaging.

He explains that while his product was still in the testing phase of collecting clients’ feedback. He learnt how to draft questionnaires and record responses through feedback surveys and forms, a skill he acquired under the Next Wave programme.

“It is through this that I got to improve my product in terms of quality appearance and effectiveness, packaging and label information, while putting into consideration the environmental impacts,” he says.

Kiyimba notes that other aspects of improvement came in the context of team building and formation of a high-performance team that could accelerate project growth.

“Before joining the program, I had challenges with product brand names, packaging design and general product quality consistency. However, by the end of the program, we could formulate meaningful product designs, brand names, and create a consistent product presentation on market, he explains.

Impact

Kiyimba says the Next Wave program has had impact on his business with his market potential expanding to serve more communities; his team has also mastered skills of new fundraising strategies to boost project growth and development; implement product learning and product innovation through formation of highly graded progress analysis and innovation tools, business models, business concepts and project proposals. 

“I learnt and implemented the pillars of making a high-performance team from knowing their motivations, focusing on a common goal, trust worthiness, among others. These have helped me keep my small team highly motivated as we hope for opportunities to boost our growth,” he says.

Skilling as a side hustle

Kiyimba has also been able to diversify his income sources through monetizing his skills by partnering with institutions to train students in sustainable vocational skills in product making and development.

Such institutions include; educational centers such as primary schools, secondary schools, vocations, higher institutions of study, among others as opportunities allow.

“In this sense, I train them in product making and soft skills of business management that can help these scholars kick start a home project to generate income for them,” he says.

Kiyimba specializes in training students to make laundry bar soap, all liquid (shampoo, Jik, hand wash gel, shower gels) and powdered detergents similar to Omo and Nomi brands, school chalk, reusable sanitary towels for girls, shoe creams, jelly, candles and book binding.

He reminisces about his first skillng gig at Trinity Biblical Institute situated in Eastern Uganda in Kween District where he worked with the institution for two years to skill graduating pastors in product making skills that could help them be self-sustaining as they pursued their pastoral work.

This has been consecutively followed by other empowerment outreaches in institutions such as Wagagai Flower farm and Kicunguro Angel center- a place for rehabilitation of school dropouts due to teenage pregnancies, among many other centers.

Future prospects

 As Kiyimba pursues his studies Biomedical Engineering at Mbarara University, he’s also planning to expand the company’s market share to cover all regions of Uganda, not only through small scale selling agents, but also establishing outlets, and regional product stores for clients to easily access their products.

Having realized the challenge of corrosion of equipment in his area of professional studies, as a result of rusting and harsh chemicals more so of medical equipment. Kiyimba went into the ideation and formulated another product – ‘Indros’.

He says the product is a reliable rust and scale remover that effectively removes corrosion from surfaces of metals, lime from water pipes, mechanical parts of vehicles, cement and tile floors, industrial equipment and machinery. The new product is still under a testing phase and will soon be introduced on the market.

His other plans include product legalization, product brand ownership/ patenting and copyrights as well as setting up a permanent production plant after acquisition of land.

Advise to fellow youth

“I strongly encourage all innovative and upcoming minds to seek mentorship opportunities first rather than financing opportunities in their startups, innovation creations at all stages, right from ideation.

A product without soft skills cannot stand to celebrate its first birthday on market, it’s the skills that can help innovations and projects thrive amidst stiff competition from other producers, innovators and creators.

Joining a mentorship program may seem daunting but it is also a very huge opportunity to learn, grow and create something truly amazing. Every successful person starts from somewhere and often it is the journey that shapes us, but not the destination.

A big shout-out to Innovation Village, the vision bearers, partners, stakeholders and the teams of ladies and gentlemen who tirelessly work around the clock to make the organization more impactful with its life transforming programs.

The post How Ronald Kiyimba rose from being a Charcoal Seller to an aspiring Industrialist appeared first on Innovation Village.

For players in the private sector, particularly entrepreneurs and innovators, the national budget offers crucial insight into the government’s strategic priorities and interventions aimed at boosting business and fostering growth. It provides a roadmap to navigate the economic landscape and seize opportunities that can ease the nation out of challenging economic times. 

Speaking during the launch of the National Budget Month, Permanent Secretary to the Treasury, Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development Ramathan Ggoobi highlighted four priority areas that the government is focusing on to achieve comprehensive monetization of every aspect of the economy. These included –  Agro-Industrialization Development and Value Addition, Tourism Development, a Knowledge-Based Economy through Science, Innovation, and Technology, and Mineral-Based Industrial Development. 

Cliché as it may sound, agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy, highlighted by its significant contribution to the country’s GDP. The focus on agro-industrialization lies in the underlying theory of change for the country’s macro-economic development framework, which is based on the achievement of higher household incomes and improved well-being through resource-led sustainable industrialization. 

 Naturally this presents opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators through the identification of areas within the agricultural sector where industrialization can bring about positive outcomes including food processing, value added agricultural products among others, technology adoption, sustainable practices, market access, value addition and diversification not forgetting policy support that incentivizes sustainable industrialization in agriculture.   

The expansion of Uganda’s manufacturing industry and the steps towards industrialization provide unmatched potential for accelerated growth by adding value to raw materials produced locally, rather than being exported unprocessed. By investing in processing facilities, improving supply chains, and promoting agricultural research, not to mention skills development, the government seeks to enhance the competitiveness of Ugandan products in global markets. The results remain to be seen as this coincides with NDP III that cites the promotion of local manufacturing as a key development strategy to be achieved this coming financial year 2024/25. On whether this will solution for Uganda’s glaring trade deficit, remains to be seen.  

Additionally, the focus on the knowledge-based economy through the generation and exploitation of knowledge plays a predominant part in the creation of wealth. In such an economy knowledge is the main driver of growth and development across all sectors including technology, education, healthcare and manufacturing which make up a robust framework that supports the sustainable growth and success of startups, making it a jackpot for innovators and entrepreneurs aiming to accelerate Uganda’s economic growth. 

The knowledge economy is defined as the intellectual aspect of the economy where knowledge is acquired, created, transferred, and used effectively to enhance economic development. This economy provides the foundational elements necessary for innovation and startup growth by offering a rich environment of information, expertise, and technological resources that fuel innovation and development according to the National Budget Framework Paper FY202425.

To put this into perspective, startups in a knowledge economy have access to cutting-edge research, advanced technologies, and a wealth of data, enabling them to create groundbreaking products and services that meet evolving market demands. This access lowers the barriers to entry, allowing entrepreneurs to launch and scale their ventures more efficiently. Additionally, the knowledge economy fosters a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, where startups can benefit from partnerships with academic institutions, research centers, and established companies. This interconnectedness provides startups with essential mentorship, funding, and strategic guidance, and facilitates the exchange of ideas and best practices. 

Therefore, by promoting innovation, agility, and resource sharing, the knowledge economy creates a dynamic and supportive ecosystem that drives sustainable startup growth and long-term success. 

Further still while Uganda boosts of a rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning landscapes that position it as a prime tourist destination, the potential of the tourism sector remains underutilized, leading to stagnant growth. With the government now focused on unlocking this sector’s potential, the opportunities for startups are immense through the introduction and adoption of innovative technological solutions that enhance the tourism experience. 

Technology solutions that offer personalized travel itineraries, augmented reality experiences that bring historical sites to life, and smart solutions for sustainable tourism practices can be key additions to sector growth. Therefore, the government’s emphasis on tourism provides a unique window for technology-driven ventures to revitalize and transform Uganda’s tourism landscape, driving growth and innovation in the industry. 

Finally, the focus is on mineral-based industrial development, particularly in the Oil and Gas sector, which presents numerous opportunities for entrepreneurs to tap into. Oil and Gas can generate significant revenues that can enhance productivity and competitiveness across other areas of the economy.  

With the government now focused on exploring various downstream economic activities, including establishing oil refineries, petrochemical plants, and distribution networks for petroleum products, and setting up retail outlets for natural gas distribution, entrepreneurs should seize this moment to innovate and invest in the Oil and Gas sector, leveraging its potential to not only create profitable ventures but also contribute to the overall economic development of the country. 

As we look forward to the budget reading today, the government’s strategic priorities reflect a comprehensive approach to economic transformation. By focusing on these four key economic drivers, Uganda aims to build a resilient economy that can withstand global economic uncertainties, create sustainable jobs, and invest in the overall quality of life for its citizens. It is crucial that entrepreneurs and innovators pay close attention to these developments, as they present numerous opportunities to align their business ventures with the national growth agenda and contribute to the country’s economic prosperity. 

The post FY2024/25 Budget: What Lies Ahead for Entrepreneurs and Innovators  appeared first on Innovation Village.

The event brought together farmers and AgriSolar innovators to identify actionable solutions, strategies, and tactical approaches for unlocking opportunities and increasing access to affordable solar technologies within last-mile communities in the district. 

Rebecca Nabossa, Program Associate at Innovation Village, said that the engagement aimed to create synergies among players within the AgriSolar ecosystem to drive the adoption and usage of solar innovation in farming communities, ultimately boosting farmers’ productivity and increasing their profitability. 

“While solar innovation is often pitched as a solution to challenges in the agriculture sector, there remains a substantial lack of awareness and utilization among farmers. Additionally, there is often a disconnect between the innovative AgriSolar solutions available and the actual needs of farmers,” Nabossa said. 

Adding, this engagement aimed to facilitate direct interaction between solar technology innovators and farmers, deepening the innovators’ understanding of the real challenges farmers face in adopting solar technology. This interaction fosters a sense of collaboration and opportunities for customized solutions, allowing innovators to refine technologies based on direct user feedback, and implements a follow-up plan for ongoing communication. 

“We believe that by bringing these stakeholders together, we can bridge the information gap between technology solutions and on-the-ground agricultural needs. This will foster collaboration and innovation in integrating solar technologies into farming practices,” Nabossa added. 

The feedback gathered from this engagement will be embedded into the AgriSolar Product Accelerate program, an initiative run by Innovation Village in collaboration with the MoTT Foundation. The program offers a product development and refinement journey designed for solution providers building use cases and incorporating solar technologies across the agriculture value chains of dairy, aquaculture, and horticulture. 

Paul Zaake, the Founder of Agri Share Uganda and participant in the AgriSolar Accelerator Program, highlighted the massive impact of climate change on farmers. “Through AgriShare, an innovative application-based platform, we connect farmers to a vast database of agricultural machinery, equipment, and resources. Farmers can hire irrigation and processing equipment, land, farm workers, and tractors,” Zaake said. 

“Through AgriShare, farmers can hire solar-powered irrigation pumps for about UGX 30,000 per day. This is more affordable compared to buying upfront at UGX 3M plus other annual maintenance costs. “This hiring model enables farmers to only pay for the few times they need to use the equipment, eliminating the high purchase and maintenance costs.” 

Through this approach, farmers can affordably irrigate crops, especially at critical stages, without the need to invest in purchasing the irrigation systems,” Zaake emphasized. 

Edward Ceasar, a tomato farmer in Luweero district and beneficiary of Agri Share Uganda, shared his experience: “The irrigation pumps hired to us by AgriShare have increased my productivity and efficiency. What used to take me over four to five hours with a watering can, I can now do in less than an hour with the irrigation pumps.” However, he noted that the cost of hiring the irrigation pumps remains high for ordinary farmers. 

To scale further, Zaake said, he needs to raise more capital and open partnership linkages with actors in the agriculture and ICT sectors. “We need more funds to accelerate our technology. As you know, fundraising in Africa for a business in the agriculture sector is even more difficult. So, there is a need for more innovative funding towards innovations like AgriShare,” he added. 

The post Enhancing farmers’ access and usage of affordable Solar technology Solutions  appeared first on Innovation Village.

The company- LUK Solar Limited is a family social enterprise that was established in 2015 by Kigozi’s father, Mr. John Baptist Walusimbi and two German partners- Kurt Zügner and Lisa Zügner. The company’s business hinges on being a last-mile distributor of solar products and services.  

Kigozi spent three years at LUK Solar growing under the ‘wings’ of his father and mastering his craft in the solar business. He saw a bright future ahead. But as fate would have it, Covid – 19 hit in 2020, and things fell apart like the acts in Chinua Achebe’s novel.  

“Covid-19 affected us because we work with farmers and women groups. They were not gathering anymore and yet they had acquired solar equipment on a lease basis, he says, “It was a setback because we had already stocked solar equipment and we had suppliers to pay.”   

Kigozi turned to loans to meet some of the business obligations.  

“We had to write off over 400 million of stock which we couldn’t recover as money from clients. Some of the clients who were refugees had already moved back to Sudan. We also had to engage in more borrowing to buffer up our capital levels and recover the business,” he recounts.  

A turning point  

Kigozi has recovered the family business steadily along with his German founding partner, and one of his key turning points has been to attend an intensive thirteen-week AgriSolar program at The Innovation Village (TIV) in Ntinda, Kampala.   

The AgriSolar Product Accelerator program is a product development and refinement journey designed for solution providers building use cases and incorporating solar technologies across the agriculture value chains of Diary, Aquaculture and Horticulture.  

The purpose is to empower solution providers with the tools and skills that they need to scale their solutions.   

The two-year program is supported by Charles Stewart Mott Foundation and aims to mainstream use of solar technologies in agriculture by supporting solution providers to identify, validate, test and scale unique financing models. This will result in over 100 solutions being adopted and 10,000 jobs created across the various AgriSolar value chains.  

Picking interest 

Kigozi picked interest after a friend working at the Innovation Village introduced him to the program during a meeting. Two of his staff colleagues also signed up for the program.  

“We had five meetings which were physical, and we also had coaches and mentors who trained us online,” he recalls.  

Kigozi says the beauty about the programme is its experiential nature allowing business innovators and solution providers to showcase their solar use cases to deal with horticulture, aquaculture and dairy farming.  

“It was an experiential learning for me, the things I learnt were how to make a pitch deck and facilitators came in handy to help us construct business model canvas,” he says.  

He adds: – “I realised I can collaborate with other innovators in the room. During that training, we wrote a proposal and submitted it to GIZ, and I’m happy to tell you that we won the grant with another partner- Adebo Cosmas.”   

Kigozo together with Adebo, who is also a beneficiary of the program, are finalising plans to take solar home systems to refugee camps in Obongi District.  

“Before the training we had few use cases, we thought only dairy farmers could use it but now know it can be used in other areas to do with fruits and other perishable products,” Kigozi remarks.  

LUK SOLAR’s Nature of Business  

LUK Solar is involved in the importation, sales, solar system customization, last mile distribution and installation of solar energy products to majorly beyond the grid underserved low-cost communities, refugee settlement districts, rural schools, households as well as health centres with solar solutions.  

The company also offers training in different kinds of solar-related activities like solar installation, maintenance and after-sales service to the clients and beneficiaries creating awareness of sustainable and reliable energy.  

As a “last mile distributor,” the company’s product range includes, Pico Photovoltaic solar household systems, grid independent solar fridges, modular and scalable solar school systems, and Direct Current Power Bricks Solar Lights System, Solar TVs and Screens plus solar generators for running health centres and schools under the PUEs (Productive Use of Energy). 

It operates in over 30 off-grid districts across Uganda with permanent sales staff who we call (Solar Scouts). These include; Luwero, Arua, Busia, Alebtong, Kasese, Pakwach, Yumbe, Kitgum, Obongi, Mpigi, Nebbi, Mbale, and Terego among others.  

“These individuals (Solar Scouts) are vital links between our products and the communities in need, they also offer customer care, after-sales service and warranty services as well as waste management services to our customers,” Kigozi explains. 

Business Scale 

LUK Solar Ltd has for the last 6 years supplied and installed over 10,000 scalable solar home systems to over 20 villages without electricity. And recently in the last 12 months, over 105 solar school systems have been set up in similar communities.  

“These customers have scaled our modular solar systems to upgrade to productive use of solar systems which now power their health centres such as Kibanga Health Centre which has promoted sustainability and reliability,” Kigozi explains. 

Currently, the company runs Tier 2 products for Productive Use of Energy. Among these are solar fridges and solar lighting for health centres and Zimpertec solar generators for reliable running of a health center.  

 Kigozi says the company has sold 17 solar fridges to schools and healthcare centres in the districts of Kayunga, Lyantonde, Luwero, and Pakwach. These are used by healthcare centre owners to preserve their medical supplies and school owners for the school canteens.  

The company’s solar distribution has also extended to supporting women groups with solar products in the districts of Luweero and Pakwach with most of the use cases supporting women in business. 

At company level, Kigozi has supplied 5 e-bikes and e-cargo bikes with the Zimpertec LSX solar charging stations to his solar scouts and agents in areas of Luweero and Kayunga to help the scouts navigate the remote areas with less difficulty in movements. 

Automation  

LUK Solar has experience with PAYGO models for solar products; since 2019, the company has tracked all its lease financing and PayGo products using Solaris off-grid’s PayGops software https://www.paygops.com/.  

The software tracks the solar products using the proprietary platform for both PayGo and Non-PayGo.  

The same system is used to connect the products to the payments’ platforms and banks from individual customer accounts and it is integrated with all local telecoms for SMS and Mobile money gateways.  

 “We automatically register payments and generate tokens to activate our clients’ solar systems, and these are sent over WhatsApp and text messages,” Kigozi explains.  

Kigozi says his team developed an online dashboard to track the performance of field agents (the solar scouts) for number of leads created number of new clients’ prospects registered and other presales and after sales features, customer care, offering after-sales services, such as raising tickets, to track issues related to the system or payments. 

Estimated turnover value  

Kigozi says the company’s estimated average annual turnover for the last 2 financial years is valued at UGX 250 million, and 30 employees in distribution and managerial roles.  

E- waste policy   

The company has also set commitments to environmental sustainability which extends to responsible e-waste disposal and recycling outlining key processes such as collection of used batteries for future recycling; also, new batteries are provided at no cost within the 2+-year guarantee period and at a nominal fee afterward.  

Gender inclusivity  

Kigozi says the company takes gender inclusivity at heart which is well stipulated in the Sustainable Development Goal 5- which aims to achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls.  

 As a result, the company partnered with the Smart Girls Foundation training centre based in Wakiso District under the ‘Girls with Tools program to train girls and women in solar product handling and services who graduate with the Directorate of Industrial Training qualification certificates. 

 Planned Expansion  

Looking ahead, and with the already awarded grant from the Private Sector Foundation Uganda – and GiZ EndeV, Kigozi is now seeking to extend solar products and services to refugees’ communities in districts of Adjumani, Kiryandongo, Lamwo, and Koboko. 

Support.  

The solar business is now seeking funding of EUR 50,000 to scale its logistics, marketing and business development where it seeks to introduce a solar freezer to farmers.  

“I want the Innovation Village to follow up and see the impact so far on ground. I will be glad. They should encourage more collaboration, working, and synergies like breakfast meetings with other colleagues for us to thrive more, Kigozi says in his parting shot.  

The post Brick by Brick: Kigozi navigates the highs and lows of running his family’s solar business  appeared first on Innovation Village.

  
“As a result, there often wasn’t enough food, and money for school fees and medication was scarce, despite our long hours of hard work. This situation is common in Uganda,” he says. 

However, Zaake identifies a gap which either trickles down to limited information, or access. 

He says, there’s a lot of idle land owned by people who would be willing to lease it for farming. Meanwhile some individuals who own equipment don’t use it all the time, and worse still, some manufacturers and importers have equipment in storage that isn’t accessible or affordable to farmers. 
 
Irrigation as a service for hire 
Zaake is solving a long-standing problem in the agriculture sector where affordability of irrigation equipment remains outreach especially for most smallholder farmers in Uganda. 
“You will find out that irrigation equipment costs millions of Ugandan shillings, literally, an arm and a leg to afford,” he says. 

  
Despite the advantages that the country holds in the ease of undertaking irrigation development using the enormous water resources at hand, the potential has not been harnessed. 

  
Uganda’s rain-fed agriculture has progressively been constrained by frequent threats of, and actual occurrence of, droughts and floods affecting efforts for increased production; fight against hunger and poverty. 

Aware of both the challenges and opportunities, AgriShare enables farmers to hire solar irrigation systems on a daily/weekly/monthly basis to irrigate crops at critical stages of the crops during the dry season. 

  
Initially, Zaake used to rent out irrigation fuel powered pumps on a daily basis, however, the high cost of fuel locked out some farmers who could only afford to use them for a few hours. 

  
To address this issue, Zaake then introduced solar irrigation pumps to farmers in collaboration with Innovation Village and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation. 
The demand for solar powered irrigation pumps shot up forcing Zaake to introduce call centres. 

“When we launched the AgriShare App, we encountered farmers who wanted solar irrigation pumps but did not have smartphones. In response, we added a call centre to the AgriShare platform where farmers can book for the irrigation pumps and other services,” he explains.   

Zaake is a beneficiary of The AgriSolar Product Accelerator program, an intensive product development and refinement journey designed for solution providers building use cases and incorporating solar technologies across the agriculture value chains of Diary, Aquaculture and Horticulture. 

  
The two-year program aims to mainstream use of solar technologies in agriculture by supporting solution providers to identify, validate, test and scale unique financing models. This will result in over 100 solutions being adopted and 10,000 jobs created across the various AgriSolar value chains. 

  
AgriShare’s hiring model enables farmers to only pay for the few times they need to use the equipment. No payment for maintenance costs. Instead, they just hire and get the service. 

  
“At AgriShare, we promote solar irrigation in two ways. The first way is unique, and it involves hiring solar irrigation pumps for farmers. The hiring process is either done from the nearest farmers or the nearest Agri Share regional hub office,” Zaake explains. 

  
 He adds that farmers pay about UGX 30,000 per day. This is more affordable compared to buying upfront at UGX 3M plus other annual maintenance costs. 

  
Through this approach, farmers can affordably irrigate crops especially at critical stages without the need to invest in purchase of the irrigation systems. 

  
The second way involves connecting farmers to manufacturers or sellers or importers of solar irrigation equipment. This enables them to enjoy very affordable prices with even an option of financing because of collaboration with financing partners. 

  
“Farmers who buy get access to unlimited technical support with a warranty of up to 3 years in addition AgriShare ensures that equipment is sourced from genuine and trusted supplier/manufacturers/importer partners,” he says. 

  
A typical day in the field 
As the business grows, Zaake’s typical day involves meetings with his team, internal and external partners, either in person or online to address urgent issues, making quick decisions, and providing direction on critical actions. 

“I also set aside time to work on proposals, new app features, new business models, incorporate feedback into immediate or strategic actions, and refine solutions to challenges into better processes or systems,” he says.   

To avoid burnout, Zaake takes breaks to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea or indulge in snacks like sweet bananas or groundnuts. 

If my day involves fieldwork with farmers, I coordinate with our field team and head out to interact directly with them. I find it more intuitive to gather feedback from our customers firsthand rather than relying solely on annual surveys. 

In the evenings, he spends time with his family. 

Impact 
Zaake now serves over 50,304 farmers on the platform offering land renting, tractor ploughing, advisory, farm worker connections, hiring maize shellers and hiring sprayers, with 461 farmers have hired solar equipment specifically solar irrigation   
pumps. 
 
“Solar irrigation technology has enabled our farmers to adequately irrigate and water crops without needing to spend money on fuel. It is innovative since the energy from sunlight is enough to power the solar water pumps,” he says. 
 
AgriShare now runs offices in Uganda’s four regions focusing on Luweero District in Central, Jinja District in East, Nwoya District in the North, and Fort Portal District in Western Uganda. 
 
In 2023, 85 percent, or an equivalent of 42,500 of AgriShare our users experienced yield increases, and income rises in addition to facilitating tens of thousands of farm jobs, acquiring more assets, paying school fees, medication and living a happier life. 
 
Environmentally, the solar irrigation system has contributed to a drop in carbon emissions on farmlands and additionally enabled farmers to adapt more easily to the extreme dry conditions caused by climate change. 
 
Scaling 
To scale more, Zaake says, he needs to raise more capital, and open up partnership linkages to actors in the agriculture, and ICT sector. 
 
“We need more funds to accelerate our technology. Fundraising in Africa for a business in the agriculture sector is even more difficult. So, there is a need for more innovative funding towards innovations like AgriShare,” he says.   

Zaake is grateful for partnering with Innovation Village and the Charles Stewart Mott Foundation, which he says has been one of the best decisions for AgriShare’s growth and expertise.   

“They initially helped us develop and polish the irrigation pumps for hire as a service through the AgriSolar Product Accelerator. Later, they supported our fundraising efforts, resulting in a solar Irrigation grant from the Postcode Lottery through Welthungerhilfe,” he explains. 

  
He adds “They are now supporting us in networking and well reaching out to more farmers.” 

As a patriot, Zaake’s desire extends to Uganda becoming a net exporter of agricultural produce and earning the much-needed foreign exchange gain, and a thriving Africa. 

The post Zaake’s AgriShare App: Farmers’ digital bridge to solar irrigation appeared first on Innovation Village.