NAIROBI, Kenya – The productive use of solar energy in agriculture, which powers vital farm operations and guarantees energy independence while lowering reliance on fossil fuels, is driving a wave of change across Kenya.
Some of these operations include irrigation, cooling, and processing of farm produce.
Y News Digital understands that reducing emissions from agriculture and food systems, which account for around one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, utilise 70pc of the world’s freshwater, and are the main sources of biodiversity loss, was a top priority at the COP30 climate summit in Belem, Brazil, in November 2024.
In Kenya, farmers are not only feeding the nation but are also powering a cleaner future.
Across the country, more and more farmers have embraced solar power to make their farms run cleaner and protect the land they depend on while saving on utility costs.
This is primarily because the demand for irrigation, storage, and processing is increased by regenerative techniques, and only renewable energy can make those practices sustainable without having a significant negative impact on the environment.
It is already becoming clear that being self-sufficient is a requirement for the majority of Kenyan farmers who live and work in rural areas where agriculture is primarily practised.
Enter solar power, which is one of the finest ways to guarantee that they receive power, regardless of how far away they reside from the closest utility connection.
Farmers are now safeguarding their livelihoods from an increasingly taxed grid by generating their own clean electricity.
Due to its dependability and cleanliness, solar energy is being chosen by many farmers in Kenya, protecting the soil, water, and air that support humanity.
With solar energy, farmers can make sure that their efforts to feed the nation also benefit the environment.
Rooftop solar is a fantastic way to capture all that untapped electricity directly on the structures that will use it, as certain as the sun rising every morning.
Barns can gather a substantial amount of energy to operate a range of farm equipment, and they have plenty of roof space.
And now, Kenyan farmers are benefiting from rooftop solar, much like a large number of homes and companies throughout the nation. They installed solar on their hog barn after witnessing their electricity costs soar, and they haven’t looked back.
For instance, Y News Digital established that soon after installation, Harun Warui, the co-owner of Wilda Farm in Njoro, Nakuru County, saw their electric bills drop from several thousand shillings a month to just a few.
Today, Wilda Farm uses solar energy to generate enough power to run its daily activities. Although dairy farmers are inherently driven to cut emissions and dedicated to sustainability, many, like Warui, consider solar panels as an economic potential in addition to biodigesters.
How is solar energy powering Wilda Farm?
Kennedy Kaburu, the farm manager, shared his boss’s sentiments during a visit to the farm located adjacent to Egerton University and said that they had embraced the usage of solar energy, which has helped them lower the cost of electricity.
“We use the power from the solar panels to process our animal feeds and also to pump water because our animals require a lot of water,” Kaburu told Y News Digital in an exclusive interview.
The Micro Enterprise Support Trust (MESPT), a development group founded in 2002 by the Kenyan government and the European Union (EU) and later by the Royal Danish Embassy in Kenya, was the sole provider of the 15 solar panels at the expansive farm.
“We also use the power from the solar to light our farm and move around some other machines, and this has become a game changer on our farm,” Kaburu stated.
Warui, an agroecologist and human ecologist who is passionate about promoting environmental justice, sustainable natural resource governance, and food system transitions, revealed to Y News Digital that they are implementing milking machines to lessen animal-human contact.
“The cost of energy for pasteurising milk is one of the problems that has been a hindrance. We have been able to constantly and sustainably pasture our milk thanks to the utilisation of biogas and the installation of a solar hybrid system on our farm,” Warui said.
With over 20 years of experience, Warui’s work connects science, policy, and grassroots action to build resilient, equitable, and sustainable agriculture. At the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Climate Change, Kenya, Warui provided technical leadership on climate change adaptation, supporting REDD+, NDC implementation, and national climate finance tools.
Earlier, Warui founded the Environmental Research Programme and Climate Change Unit at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organisation (KALRO), where he led research on dryland ecosystems and farmer-led adaptation strategies.
Currently, Warui leads the Agroecology and Food Rights Programme at Heinrich Böll Stiftung in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, working closely with the Route to Food Initiative (RTFI) to advance policy advocacy, public engagement, and research on soil health, seed sovereignty, pesticide regulation, and transitions to just and regenerative food systems.
“My work also engages with international and cross-cutting issues at the intersection of agroecology, environmental justice, and sustainable development,” Warui, whose farm is a Private Sector Lead Firm (PSLF) in the dairy value chain, which is now a training hub for smallholder farmers on food safety, best dairy farming practices, and adoption of green practices, further stated.
MESPT began by providing modern dairy farming equipment, such as solar panels, to a group of Kenyan farmers and teaching them modern dairy farming techniques.
“We have positioned ourselves as a circular regenerative farm thanks to this partnership. We are improving our hygienic conditions through composting. This is how we grow our fodder. It helps to improve the health of our soils and raises the fodder’s nutrient levels,” Warui said.
He added that Wilda Farm is working towards a green growth trajectory and making sure that their expenditures on commercial animal feed have decreased.
Why is MESPT keen on supporting Kenyan farmers?
Margaret Miano, MESPT’s partnership and fundraising coordinator, responded to a request for comment by stating that the organisation is at the forefront of making sure smallholder farmers are assisted in boosting their agricultural productivity and profitability.
“The financial solutions and services are geared towards increased financial inclusion, enhanced productivity, and the acceleration of the development and growth of MSMEs for job creation,” Miano told Y News Digital.
According to Miano, their main areas of concentration include general enterprise, climate-smart/renewable energy, and agriculture.
“We have been offering MSMEs and financial institutions sustainable access to financing and business development services since 2002. Achieving the intended socio-economic impact among the end users is the goal of our services,” Miano added.
Warui indicated that they are also encouraging circularity through their partnership with MESPT, particularly by recycling their composite energy.
“We are producing biogas, which is used to meet our energy needs. We have implemented a hybrid power system that is assisting us in reducing our energy consumption,” added Warui.
During our conversations, Warui identified the price of livestock feed as a major issue they are dealing with.
“The price of electricity is rising daily. This is still a difficulty, despite our best efforts to lower the cost by including renewable energy components,” he stated.
“It has been a challenge because we are realising that the purchasing power of our consumers is going down. We don’t want to say the cost of living, but this is what we have been realising: that it is becoming a challenge, but what we are doing to beat the market is quality. We have sustained the quality of our milk products, and this has helped us sustain the market.”
In the meantime, Kaburu said that they have reduced their monthly electricity costs after installing the solar panels, which give them roughly 14.5 kilowatts.
“As a result, we now pay about KSh 20,000 (USD 155) or less instead of the nearly KSh 30,000 (USD 233) we used to pay. Thus, this is obviously a game-changer,” Kaburu remarked. Kaburu added.
“It goes without saying that each cow produces 25 to 30 litres of milk per day. The price changes depending on the season.”
Why do Uasin Gishu farmer groups have a reason to smile?
Additionally, MESPT, in collaboration with the County Government of Uasin Gishu, Department of Agriculture, is currently supporting local farmers by delivering essential agricultural supplies to various farmer groups across the County.
This initiative aims to empower smallholder farmers and enhance agricultural productivity, particularly among youth and women.
Already, over 40 farmer groups have benefited from the distribution of vital agricultural equipment, which includes dam liners, shed nets, chicken cages, spray suits, gloves, respiratory masks, gumboots, chemical goggles, and solar egg incubators.
“This collaboration marks a vital step towards assisting our farmers in improving their productivity and income generation. We are grateful for the support provided by MESPT and applaud their work in Uasin Gishu,” said County Executive Committee Member for Agriculture Edward Sawe.
Aisha Jumwa, a representative from MESPT, emphasised the organisation’s mission to equip smallholder farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge to thrive in today’s demanding agricultural landscape.
“Our goal is to empower farmers through capacity building, which includes skills development, technical support, and market linkages. We are excited about the impact this collaboration will continue to have in Uasin Gishu,” Aisha added.
The supplies have significantly enhanced farming practices among the beneficiary groups. The introduction of solar egg incubators, for instance, has revolutionised poultry farming by providing a reliable means for hatching eggs, thereby assisting local farmers in increasing their chicken production.
Meanwhile, Y News Digital learnt that the shed nets and dam liners facilitate nursery establishment and allow farmers to cultivate Azolla, a protein-rich feed for cattle, poultry, fish, and pigs, ultimately reducing feed costs.
On his part, James Nyamai, an entrepreneur at E4Impact Foundation, disclosed that when he left his formal employment some years ago, he ventured into primary agriculture as his first entrepreneurship venture, focusing on organic tomatoes and vegetables in response to a looming chemical crisis.
“With limited resources, I couldn’t afford to hire irrigation experts for my 6-acre farm, so I had to water each plant by hand using a pipe. It was exhausting, and many plants withered, as I couldn’t cover the entire farm in a day. This challenge pushed me to devise my irrigation system with minimal resources,” Nyamai explained.
How are Kenyan farmers benefiting from Community Dehydration Centers?
While it worked, Nyamai lamented that it had its fair share of issues, especially with leaks.
“This is a common problem for many farmers, and without adequate resources, sustainable production becomes difficult. Fast forward to today, I’m thrilled to have refined this skill and now lead a team at Bioafriq Energy, trained in setting up efficient solar-powered irrigation systems,” Nyamai explained.
Through Bioafriq Energy, Nyamai has developed Community Dehydration Centers which help members dry and preserve their harvest using clean-energy technology, reduce food waste during the peak harvesting season, store food for up to 12 months, even during drought, earn income from value-added dried products and ensure their families have nutritious food throughout the year.
“With unpredictable rainfall and growing climate shocks, these centers have become more than technology. They represent food security, economic stability, and dignity. When farmers have access to the right tools and knowledge, entire communities benefit. We are proud to stand alongside these farmers as they build systems that protect their harvests and improve their livelihoods,” explained Nyamai.
In his words, Nyamai went on: “This is what practical, community-led innovation looks like: a simple idea implemented in the right place, transforming how food is preserved, stored, and valued. Together, we are changing the story—from post-harvest losses to shared prosperity and long-term resilience.”
In 2025, Bioafriq Energy was recognised as the “Most Sustainable Hybrid Solar Dryer Manufacturer in Africa – 2025” by MEA Markets, under the African Excellence Awards. According to Nyamai, the recognition affirms their mission to reduce post-harvest losses, strengthen food security, and promote clean energy solutions for smallholder farmers across Africa.
“From our robust hybrid solar dryers to our portable units that also provide farmers with lighting and phone charging capabilities, we remain committed to sustainable innovation that delivers real value to farming communities. This award is not just a milestone—it’s a motivation to keep building practical solutions for Africa’s food systems,” Nyamai explained further.
When reached for comment, Principal Secretary of the State Department for Agriculture Dr. Paul Rono, told Y News Digital that the government is keen on establishing solar dryers in all the National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) depots across the country.
The move, DR. Rono observed, was aimed at reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring better payments for farmers for their crops.
“These facilities will play a vital role in revitalising our agricultural sector in the region and beyond,” explained Dr. Rono.
Why did Kenchic integrate a solar power system into its operations?
Already, the Kenyan government, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development, has established 16 pyrethrum solar driers at the Bomet NCPB. Phase 1 of the project includes a solar-powered pump that irrigates 27.9 acres daily, along with key infrastructure and farmer training to boost productivity.
“The initiative supports Kenya’s national goals for food security, climate-smart agriculture, and ASTGS. We also have a solar energy project to promote sustainability and reduce costs,” explained Dr. Rono.
Additionally, the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF) and Agriwatt Hub Limited, a leading player in the digital transformation of agriculture through innovative technology solutions, signed an MoU in November 2025, to scale solar energy, digital farmer services, and climate-smart agriculture across Kenya.
“Together, we’re building a smarter, greener, more inclusive farming future,” said KENAFF chairperson Prof. Kaburu M’Ribu.
KENAFF represents the interests of Kenyan farmers at the national level, working to improve livelihoods through advocacy and sustainable practices such as the adoption of smart farming.
This comes when Kenchic, a leading player in the poultry sector, smoothly integrated a 1.32MW Grid Tie Solar Power System into its two main facilities, the Kenchic Processing Plant and the Kenchic Hatchery, in collaboration with Chloride Exide.
This solar installation, which is intended to run throughout the day, is expected to provide an astounding 1,550 MWh of electricity, offsetting a significant amount of Kenchic’s energy needs.
Since its founding in 1984 as a manufacturer of day-old chicks, Kenchic Ltd. has developed into a major provider of a variety of processed chicken meat and further processed chicken.
“As we mark the successful completion of this groundbreaking solar power integration project, Kenchic reaffirms its dedication to sustainability and eco-friendly operations,” said Jim Tozer, Managing Director at Kenchic Ltd.
“This initiative is not merely a technological advancement but a commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and set new standards in responsible business practices.”
He insisted that the solar project is in perfect alignment with their goal of guaranteeing sustainable patterns of production and consumption, positioning us as a leader in Kenya’s quest for a more environmentally friendly future.
“Our collaboration with Kenchic on this solar integration project underscores Chloride Exide’s commitment to providing innovative energy solutions that drive sustainable development,” said Charles Ngare, General Manager of Chloride Exide Ltd.
How is the Israeli government supporting Kenyan farmers?
Ngare reiterated that they are pleased to support Kenchic’s goal with their knowledge in energy systems, maintaining that the initiative demonstrates the effectiveness of strategic alliances and the results that can be obtained when organisations band together to tackle environmental issues.
“We are proud to be associated with Kenchic and support their vision for a safer and more sustainable poultry industry, and together we illuminate the path to a cleaner, more sustainable future for Kenya.”
Against this backdrop, Kenchic wants to establish itself as a leader in eco-friendly business practices by pursuing sustainability leadership and aligning with SDG Goal 12, which is to “ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns”.
Y News Digital further understands that Kenchic expects significant cost savings in its operational procedures through the installation of a grid-tie solar power system, demonstrating a dedication to innovation for both sustainability and economic efficiency.
In a bid to push for productive use of solar energy in agriculture, Israel’s Ambassador to Kenya, Gideon Behar, pleaded with local farmers to stop depending on rain to grow crops.
The envoy instead wants the country to embrace irrigation, which he says is reliable in the wake of climate change.
In high-income nations, the current paradigm of input-intensive, fossil fuel-dependent agriculture has already reached its limits.
However, in Africa, where a large increase in food production would be necessary to feed a population expected to reach 2.5 billion by 2050, the stakes could not be greater.
The Israeli envoy recently visited an irrigation scheme supported by Israeli agencies at Ngomano village in Masongaleni ward in Makueni County.
The irrigation scheme is powered by solar energy. The solar panels are used to provide shade for assorted crops grown under them.
“This is the time to move into irrigated agriculture. The time for rain-fed agriculture is almost over because of climate change. As time passes by, we shall see how rain-fed agriculture is declining. The patterns of rain are shifting, and we still need to grow our food. We need to eat, and the best way to do it is via irrigation,” explained Ambassador Behar.
The majority of smallholders in Eastern Africa depend on rainfed agriculture. Diesel pumps are frequently used to power irrigation when it is feasible.
Farmers continue to be extremely exposed to unpredictable rainfall, limited crop diversity, soil erosion, and post-harvest losses in the absence of dependable energy for irrigation, processing, or storage.
The envoy also observed that solar panels and solar pumps are essential, as they support drip irrigation.
“This is the way to do agriculture and support the small farmers and the smallholders. They make the backbone of families of agriculture in Kenya, in Eastern Africa, and we must support them. The idea is to create a model that will function,” Ambassador Behar added.
Why are some Kenyan farmers dissatisfied with modern agricultural practices?
Farmers in the region disclosed that they have benefited from the modern agricultural practices that have drastically boosted their farm produce even in the wake of the devastating effects of climate change.
“They (Israelis) have really helped us because we were not able to cater for fuel expenses to power our generators on our farms. But now, we have benefited a lot because we can easily access clean water through the solar panels,” disclosed Susan Musembi, one of the beneficiaries.
However, some Kenyan farmers, such as Isaac Njihia of Njihia’s Madalenah Farm, expressed dissatisfaction about the difficulty in obtaining reasonably priced finance, which they claim is a significant obstacle to the adoption of solar agricultural technologies.
“Given how crucial renewable energy is to agriculture, this is a matter for concern. The majority of farmers in this nation are not connected to the national grid. Because solar energy is clean and replaces generators, it reduces pollution and promotes sustainable agriculture, among other issues,” Njihia lamented.
Njihia, a young farmer from Nyandarua County’s Ol-Jorok constituency, added that solar energy helps farmers become more resilient by allowing them to produce all year round, boosting production and enhancing their standard of living.
Analysts argue that Eastern Africa has the chance to leapfrog to a food system that is regenerative, renewable, and resilient by building on commitments from across Africa under the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) and the Kampala Declaration, which link climate, biodiversity, and development goals with practical delivery.
But as it stands now, Kenyan farmers are developing increasingly creative ways to capture solar energy as technology advances daily.
These farmers have realised that solar-powered water pumps are incredibly adaptable; they may be installed in any location and eliminate the need to carry fuel to generators.
Solar-powered water pumps enable farmers to irrigate their crops, supply water to their animals, or move water to storage reservoirs.
Now that tractors, UTVs, and other utility vehicles have electric choices, they can run on solar power, reducing noise and pollution, long visits to the petrol station, and maintenance time.
Electric fences might be powered by solar energy as well, doing away with the need to change out disposable batteries.
Nowadays, a large number of Kenyan farmers are utilising this technology, benefiting from solar energy by operating more productive and independent farms.
By doing this, these farmers are additionally developing long-term energy resilience, which maintains the foundation of this East African nation, standing tall and proud—ideally in a field covered with solar panels.
