SunRider

Kenya faces a significant challenge in vegetable oil seed production, as we only produce 34% of the required vegetable oil seeds, leading to an annual expenditure of over $600 million on vegetable oil imports. 

This heavy reliance on imports not only strains Kenya's economy but also leaves the local agricultural sector particularly vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions. This impact is felt most profoundly in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), which make up over 70% of Kenya's landmass.

In the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs) of Kenya, approximately 18 million farmers endure the harsh reality of unreliable rainfall and limited access to modern agricultural technologies. These challenges contribute to persistent poverty and food insecurity, with over 30% of these farmers living under $3 a day. 

Within this region, an estimated 7 million farmers are engaged in crop farming, relying on agriculture as their primary source of income and sustenance. However, similar challenges resonate across Sub-Saharan Africa, affecting an estimated 200 million farmers.

In light of anticipated climate trends, including a projected increase in temperatures by 0.4 degrees Celsius and a decrease in precipitation by 0.7%, farmers are poised to endure between 70 to 80 consecutive days of dry conditions. This prolonged dry spell heightens moisture stress among farmers, jeopardizing their capacity to maintain consistent crop cultivation practices.

Proposed solution

Facilitate low-income farmers in the arid semi-arid lands with needed resources to grow  crops (vegetable oil seeds all year round.

Our Product: SunRider

SunRider, our innovative solar-powered irrigation system (SPIS), is tailored specifically for low-income farmers, offering them affordable and reliable access to water year-round. By harnessing the extensive network of all-season rivers in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands, SunRider ensures a consistent water supply, enabling farmers to enhance agricultural productivity and achieve continuous cultivation.

Features of SunRider

1. SunRider's mobility enables it to move across diverse terrains, serving multiple farms and fostering collaboration among farmers. By sharing a single unit, farmers optimize resource utilization, maximizing efficiency and productivity across agricultural operations.

2. SunRider offers ownership-free irrigation through an Energy as a Service model, akin to the convenience of Uber. By relieving low-income farmers of equipment ownership burdens, we not only promote collaborative resource utilization but also mitigate greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable practices.

3. SunRider embodies both cost-effectiveness and environmental stewardship. Being 40% cheaper than diesel-powered systems, it ensures accessibility for farmers with limited resources. Powered entirely by solar energy, SunRider minimizes carbon emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. Additionally, its integration of soil moisture sensors enables precise water management, optimizing crop yield while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

SunRider targets low-income farmers in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), estimated at 18 million, with around 7 million relying heavily on crop farming for income. Similar challenges resonate across Sub-Saharan Africa, impacting approximately 200 million farmers.

These farmers, earning less than $3 per day, manage small farms averaging 1 to 3 acres each. Despite their agricultural reliance, they face hurdles like unreliable rainfall and limited access to modern farming technologies.

SunRider addresses these critical needs by offering an affordable, ownership-free irrigation system powered by solar energy. This sustainable approach enhances agricultural productivity, bolsters food security, and boosts income, lifting farmers out of poverty.

SunRider fosters community engagement by promoting collaborative resource utilization among farmers. With its potential to directly impact millions of farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, SunRider stands as a beacon of hope for sustainable agricultural development in the region.

Our team is exceptionally positioned to implement the SunRider solution effectively in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). 

Linda Kamau, our Project Lead, is deeply rooted in our target region and has over eight years of experience working with humanitarian organizations across Africa. This background has given her a profound understanding of the socio-economic challenges faced by rural communities, particularly in agriculture. 

Holding a Master's in Business Administration and a Bachelor's in Information Systems, along with her significant hands-on farming experience since 2016, Linda is well-equipped to lead initiatives that improve the livelihoods of low-income farmers through practical, sustainable solutions.

Pius Musyoka, our Chief Operations Officer, brings a critical analytical perspective to our operations. With a Master’s in Statistics and extensive experience in agriculture and risk assessment, Pius ensures our strategies are data-driven and market-aligned.

Our team's diverse expertise spans more than a decade in agriculture, information systems, and solar-powered technologies. This unique blend of skills is essential for delivering advanced, sustainable agricultural solutions tailored to the unique needs of our target farmers.

Our operations are directly connected to the community, highlighted by our 18-acre demo farm in the region. This farm not only serves as a testing ground for the SunRider system but also as a training hub for local farmers, ensuring that our solutions are continuously refined in response to real-world challenges.

SunRider is currently at the pilot stage of development, following a series of strategic milestones.

1. Conceptualization. Our journey began with a deep understanding of the pressing need for affordable irrigation solutions in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). Through extensive research and market analysis, we conceptualized SunRider as a sustainable and cost-effective solution to address this challenge head-on.

2. Research and Development. We invested significant resources into research and development efforts, culminating in the design and development of the first SunRider Minimum Viable Product (MVP). This MVP was meticulously tailored to meet the specific needs of low-income farmers in ASALs, ensuring maximum efficacy and usability.

3. Operational Testing.  To validate the functionality and performance of SunRider, we conducted rigorous operational tests in collaboration with five farmers in Gachuriri village. These tests were conducted in real-world conditions, allowing us to fine-tune the system based on user feedback and observed outcomes.

4. Partnership Development. Recognizing the importance of strategic partnerships, we forged a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Hand in Hand Eastern Africa. This partnership enabled us to expand our reach and impact through training 2500 farmers on sustainable production methods of vegetable oil seeds, further strengthening our position within the agricultural sector.

5. Funding. We have successfully raised $50,000 in pre-seed funding, a testament to the confidence and support garnered for SunRider's vision.

We believe that Solve offers a comprehensive platform to address several critical barriers we face while scaling SunRider’s impact in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs).

Technical Barriers. One of the significant challenges is refining our solar-powered irrigation system to enhance its efficiency and adaptability to various farm sizes and conditions. Solve's capacity for technical advancement through tailored workshops and access to cutting-edge technology can help us overcome these barriers. 

Legal and Regulatory Guidance. As we scale, navigating the complex legal and regulatory frameworks across different regions becomes imperative. Access to Solve's in-kind and pro bono legal services will ensure that SunRider adheres to all regulatory requirements, safeguarding our operations and facilitating smoother expansions into new territories.

Capacity Building. Our team stands to benefit immensely from Solve’s leadership coaching and monitoring, and evaluation support. These resources will enhance our strategic planning and execution capabilities, ensuring that we are not only equipped to lead effectively but also to measure and scale our impact efficiently.

Networking and Collaborative Opportunities. Joining Solve’s network of impact-minded leaders and innovators across industries will enable us to forge partnerships that could lead to collaborative projects, enhancing both our scalability and sustainability. This network is also a potential source of inspiration and innovation, providing peer support that is invaluable for a growing social enterprise.

Visibility and Credibility. Participation in Solve’s events and media exposure will significantly elevate SunRider’s profile, attracting additional support from stakeholders and potential investors who are critical for our next phase of growth.

By introducing concepts like energy-as-a-service and modular design, SunRider sets a precedent for accessibility and scalability in agricultural technology solutions.

This innovation could prompt other companies to rethink their business models and design strategies, leading to a wave of innovation and competition. As more farmers adopt SunRider, it creates a significant market opportunity, attracting new entrants and driving further advancements.

SunRider's affordability and scalability make it suitable for widespread adoption, particularly among smallholder farmers in arid and semi-arid regions. As its usage expands, SunRider could catalyze economic empowerment within farming communities, leading to higher crop yields, better incomes, and overall economic growth.

SunRider's emphasis on environmental sustainability through solar energy and resource-sharing could contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation. This shift towards sustainable farming practices aligns with global efforts to mitigate climate change and promote environmental stewardship.

SunRider will revolutionize agricultural practices and uplift the lives of low-income farmers in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands. By introducing affordable and accessible solar-powered irrigation systems, SunRider ensures consistent and reliable watering of crops. This translates to boosted crop yields and enhanced economic prospects for farmers in these regions.

Our main activities

1. Development and Deployment of SunRider Systems. We tailor the design and functionality of SunRider to meet the specific requirements of low-income farmers in arid and semi-arid regions. This includes customizing the system to be affordable, robust, and easy to operate in challenging environmental conditions.

2. Training and Technical Support. To ensure effective use and sustainability of the SunRider systems, we provide comprehensive training sessions for farmers. These sessions cover access, operation, and billing of SunRider systems. And a responsive technical support framework to assist farmers with any challenges they might encounter.

Immediate Outputs

1. Increased Access to Irrigation. Deployment of the SunRider systems provides farmers with reliable and controlled access to water, enabling them to irrigate their crops efficiently throughout the year.

2. Enhanced Agricultural Productivity. Reliable irrigation leads to better crop growth and increased agricultural output, which in turn contributes to higher incomes for the farming communities.

3. Adoption of Sustainable Agricultural Practices. Utilizing solar power, SunRider encourages the adoption of green technologies among farmers, reducing dependency on non-renewable energy sources and decreasing the carbon footprint associated with traditional farming methods.

Long-term Outcomes

1. Poverty Alleviation. As agricultural productivity and incomes rise, farmers are able to elevate their economic status, reducing poverty levels within the community.

2. Improved Food Security. Increased productivity ensures a stable food supply, enhancing food security and nutrition for the farmers and their wider communities.

3. Economic Empowerment. Access to reliable irrigation technology empowers farmers by giving them control over their agricultural practices and the ability to plan and execute crop cultivation more effectively.

4. Environmental Sustainability. By integrating solar technology, SunRider promotes sustainable farming practices, contributing to the mitigation of climate change and fostering a healthier ecosystem.

5. Improved Land Use. SunRider revolutionizes land management practices by enabling farmers to utilize previously barren or erosion-prone land effectively. By providing reliable irrigation, SunRider transforms neglected areas into productive farmland, preserving soil integrity and promoting biodiversity. This not only ensures the sustainability of agricultural activities for current generations but also safeguards the land for the prosperity of future generations.

This theory of change guiding SunRider's mission is backed by evidence gathered from our pilot phase in Gachuriri village, Embu County, and our operational experience at the 18-acre demo farm. 

Continuous engagement with farming communities ensures SunRider's evolution in response to real-world needs, aligning with sustainable development goals and driving environmental and economic improvements at scale.

Our Impact Goals.

1. Increased Adoption - SunRider aims to achieve a 50% increase in the number of partner farmers adopting the system within the first year of implementation.

2. Expanded Irrigated Land - Have at least 80% of partner farmers irrigating their entire farmland using SunRider within two years of deployment.

3. Enhanced Crop Yields - SunRider seeks to improve crop yields for participating farmers by at least 35% within the first two years of adoption.

4. Income Growth - Double the average farm income of participating farmers within three years of SunRider adoption, driven by the increased crop yields facilitated by irrigation.

5. Energy Efficiency - SunRider targets a 40% reduction in energy consumption compared to traditional/diesel powered irrigation methods within the first year of operation.

6. Technology Adoption - Achieve a 70% adoption rate of SunRider's advanced technology features among partner farmers within the first year. For example, our IoT soil moisture sensor provides valuable data insights on water quantity and irrigation frequency, empowering farmers to optimize their crop cultivation practices efficiently.

Monitoring Impact - Key Metrics for Assessing SunRider's Progress.

1. Number of Partner Farmers - Track the number of farmers who have adopted SunRider within each implementation period.

2. Land Acreage Under Irrigation - Measuring and monitoring the total land area brought under irrigation using SunRider by partner farmers.

3. Crop Yield - Assess the average increase in crop yields per acre of land cultivated by participating farmers using SunRider compared to their previous yields without irrigation.

4. Farm Income - Progress towards income growth is tracked by analyzing changes in participating farmers' total farm income before and after adopting SunRider.

5. Energy Savings - Measure the reduction in energy consumption achieved by partner farmers through the use of SunRider compared to traditional/diesel powered irrigation methods.

6. Technology Adoption - Monitor the adoption rate of SunRider's advanced features, such as soil moisture sensors and automated irrigation scheduling, among partner farmers over time.

SunRider leverages a comprehensive suite of technologies to redefine agricultural practices in arid and semi-arid areas by providing a mobile solar-powered irrigation system. 

This innovative approach combines advanced engineering, renewable energy, and user-friendly digital interfaces to deliver a sustainable and scalable irrigation solution. 

Here’s how the core technology components integrate to power SunRider.

Mobile Solar-Powered Irrigation System.The heart of SunRider is its ability to utilize solar power effectively, ensuring that irrigation services are not only environmentally sustainable but also economically feasible for small-scale farmers. The system includes a robust set of solar panels that are retractable, optimizing their exposure to sunlight regardless of the unit’s location or time of day.

Electric Engine and Battery Storage. SunRider is equipped with an electric engine, which significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to conventional fuel engines. The energy generated by the solar panels charges high-capacity batteries, which store sufficient power to operate the water pumps and the mobility of the unit for more than 10 hours, ensuring reliable service across multiple farms in a single day.

Advanced Water Pump Technology. The system includes a high-capacity water pump capable of irrigating an acre of land in less than four hours. This efficiency is crucial for maximizing the area serviced daily, supporting more farms with essential water resources.

Terrain-Adaptive Mobility. To ensure that SunRider can operate across various landscapes typical in arid regions, it features a specially designed chassis with high ground clearance and robust all-terrain tires. This adaptability allows SunRider to navigate through different farm terrains without the risk of damage to the equipment or delay in service delivery.

Digital Management and User Interface. Farmers interact with SunRider through a simple USSD code or a mobile app, which allows them to book irrigation sessions easily. This digital interface is integrated with an information management system that tracks and records the acreage irrigated, the volume of water used, and the specific geographic locations serviced. Notifications and receipts are generated digitally, simplifying record-keeping for farmers and enhancing the transparency of the service.

SunRider's technology is a blend of modern engineering and innovative energy solutions, providing a scalable model for addressing water management challenges in agriculture while promoting sustainability and resilience against climate variability.

Management

• Linda Kamau (Project Manager) - Full time
• Pius Wambua (Field Coordinator) - Full time
• Freda Matson (Growth Strategy Coordinator) - Part time

Full-time Staff

• Ian Musyoka (Monitoring and Evaluation Lead)
• Irene Gakii (Field Officer)
• Fred Kago (Field Officer)

The SunRider solution has been in development since November 2021 when the initial work began. The company was officially registered in March 2022, marking the formal establishment of the organization to further develop and implement the solution. Therefore, as of April 2024, the solution has been in progress for approximately two and a half years.

We prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion across our organization. Our leadership team reflects this commitment with members from diverse backgrounds, genders, and experiences, enriching our decision-making processes. 

We actively work to increase diversity through inclusive hiring practices, training, and professional development opportunities. We support employee resource groups to foster a sense of belonging and community. Our policies and practices are regularly reviewed to ensure inclusivity and equity. We strive to create a welcoming environment where all team members feel valued and supported, promoting open communication and celebrating diverse talents. Our ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion drives our mission to empower farmers and improve livelihoods.

SunRider offers affordable irrigation solutions tailored to the needs of low-income farmers in Kenya's arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). Utilizing an equipment-as-a-service model inspired by the convenience of platforms like Uber, we ensure that farmers can access irrigation without the burden of ownership.

In these regions, where erratic rainfall and costly irrigation options prevail, our solution addresses a critical need for reliable and affordable watering systems. By leveraging SunRider, farmers can overcome the challenges posed by climatic conditions and enhance their agricultural productivity.

Our revenue model centers on low-cost service fees, ensuring that farmers can access irrigation at a nominal cost. This approach not only sustains our operations but also aligns with our mission to empower low-income farmers by providing them with a viable and accessible solution to improve their livelihoods.

We generate revenue from;

1. Service Fees - Charging low-cost service fees to farmers for accessing our SunRider irrigation system. 

2. Product Sales -Direct sales of SunRider units to agricultural cooperatives. 

3. Partnerships and Grants - We actively seek partnerships with governmental organizations, NGOs, and development agencies to secure grants and funding opportunities that support our mission. 

4. Investment Capital - We pursue investment opportunities to fuel our growth and scale our operations. By attracting investment capital from impact investors, venture capitalists, and philanthropic organizations, we can accelerate our expansion efforts and reach more farmers in need.

5. Subscription Services - We plan to introduce subscription-based services, such as soil moisture monitoring and data analytics, to provide additional value to farmers and create recurring revenue streams.

Evidence of our successful funding efforts includes:

1. Grants. We have successfully secured grants from reputable organizations like Alan & Gill Gray Philanthropy (AGGP) to support our research and development initiatives, enabling us to innovate and improve our SunRider technology.

2. Revenue Generation. We are generating revenue from service fees charged for the SunRider Minimum Viable Product (MVP), which is currently in the pilot phase at Gachuriri village. This revenue stream validates the demand for our solution and contributes to our financial sustainability.

3. Impact Capital. We have attracted impact capital from renowned institutions such as USAID, Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI), and Kenyatta University to fuel the iteration of SunRider Version SP02. 

4. Strategic Partnerships. Through strategic partnerships with organizations like Hand in Hand Eastern Africa, we are training 2,500 farmers in our target region. These partnerships not only expand our outreach but also contribute to the empowerment and upliftment of local farming communities.