According to the FAO, around 14% of food is lost globally between harvest and retail, largely due to poor post-harvest handling and inadequate storage. In sub-Saharan
Africa, this figure rises to 37%, with millions of tons of produce failing to reach consumers. In Kenya, up to 40% of harvested crops are lost annually, costing the economy over KSh 65 million and undermining food security for millions.
Impact on Smallholder Farmers in Kenya
This challenge disproportionately impacts smallholder farmers, who produce 90% of Kenya's food but lack cold storage technologies near their production zones. Without proper storage, perishable goods spoil quickly, leading to significant food loss and economic setbacks. However, innovative approaches like solar-powered cold storage are providing hope.
Solar-Powered Cold Storage: A Solution to Post-Harvest Loss
While Kenya’s agricultural sector remains the backbone of its economy, it faces challenges like post-harvest losses and limited modern storage solutions. These losses waste critical resources, including water, fertilizer, and energy, while depriving communities of essential nutrients.
To effectively address post-harvest loss in Kenya, modern solutions using renewable energy technology are needed at all stages, from farm to market. These solutions should address the challenges faced by smallholder farmers, including:
- High costs of post-harvest management
- Distance to storage facilities
- Storage specifications suited to regional crops
- Reliable power availability for cold storage
The Impact of Solar-Powered Storage Facilities
Solar-powered storage facilities enable farmers in off-grid areas to preserve their produce closer to home, reducing spoilage and providing time to access new markets. They also lower electricity costs and offer reliable backup during power outages, ensuring continuous operation.
Techwin Limited: Driving Innovation in Cold Storage Solutions
Techwin Limited, a leading Kenyan food processing equipment manufacturer, has been at the forefront of delivering renewable energy solutions. Their products, including solar-powered cold rooms and solar milk cooling tanks, have revolutionized post-harvest management. These solutions empower smallholder farmers, women groups, and dairy cooperatives in both urban and off-grid areas.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Agriculture
In partnership with the Micro and Small Enterprise Authority (MSEA), Techwin Limited constructed cold storage facilities in Kisii and Nyandarua Counties to support banana and potato farmers. These community-based solutions help farmers reduce post-harvest losses, lower waste levels, and increase their profits.
Techwin Limited has also collaborated with organizations focused on environmental conservation, nutrition, and post-harvest management, including:
- Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN)
- World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)
- Vétérinaires Sans Frontières - VSF Germany
- European Union
Together, they have implemented various solar-powered post-harvest projects in Kenya, including:
- Four 1,000-litre solar-powered milk cooling stations in Tana River County
- Three 3,000-litre solar-powered milk cooling stations in Narok County
- Eight solar-powered milk value addition centers in Garissa, with more in Wajir and Mandera
These initiatives enable remote farmers to access new markets, boost their incomes, and enhance food security.
Testimonial from a Local Farmer
Hassan Wario, a farmer benefiting from these solar milk cooling stations, shared his experience:
"Before the solar cooling stations, we lost nearly half of our milk before it could be sold. Now, our milk stays fresh, and we've been able to sell to markets we couldn’t reach before. Our income has more than doubled."
Scaling Renewable Energy for Cold Storage Across Kenya
With the right support, including partnerships between agribusinesses, government, and cold chain stakeholders, renewable energy technology for cold storage can be scaled up across Kenya.
Horticulture farmers can store produce until market prices improve, increasing their profits.
Solar-powered cold storage also reduces the agricultural sector’s carbon footprint while lowering operating costs.
Building a Resilient and Sustainable Agricultural Ecosystem
Solar-powered cold storage is emerging as a critical tool in combating food insecurity and post-harvest losses in Kenya. Techwin’s projects demonstrate how these systems can transform agricultural practices, improve food safety, and boost farmer incomes. With continued investment in sustainable solutions, Kenya’s smallholder farmers can thrive in a more resilient and eco-friendly agricultural ecosystem.
Partner with Techwin Limited Today!
At Techwin Limited, we are committed to empowering Kenyan farmers with innovative solutions that enhance productivity and sustainability. Connect with us today at +254 743 793 878 to learn more about our solar-powered cold storage and other renewable energy-supported equipment designed to reduce post-harvest losses and promote food security in Kenya.
