- The FAO has installed four small scale solar-powered irrigation systems in Kalungu, Uganda.
- The irrigation systems cost about $73,000 each and were procured under the Global Climate Change Alliance Plus (GCCA+).
- The FAO also intends to install additional solar-powered irrigation systems in the country.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have installed four small scale solar-powered irrigation systems in Kalungu, Uganda. The new irrigation systems will provide increased water supply to small farmers, increasing harvest. These solar-powered systems will enable farmers to reduce electricity bills, save fuel costs and reduce their emissions. Agriculture is the mainstay of the Ugandan economy as it employs about 40 per cent of the country’s population.
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According to the FAO, the irrigation systems cost about 260 million Ugandan shillings (about $73,000) each and were procured under the Global Climate Change Alliance Plus (GCCA+). The GCCA+ initiative is funded by the European Union (EU), which supports countries to implement commitments agreed to under the Paris Climate Agreement.
The FAO also intends to install additional solar-powered irrigation systems in Mubende, Nakasongola, Luwero, Kiboga, Nakaseke, Sembabule and Rakai to ensure food security in the country.