Swiss Partners
Association Suisse de Développement en Afrique-Subsaharienne
Olivier Starkenmann
Local Partner
EcoTech Mali
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Documentation
Swiss Contribution
The project builds on work done by the Antenna Foundation to reduce energy poverty by offering innovative and affordable renewable energy solutions. The Association Suisse de Développement en Afrique-Subsaharienne (SuisseDev), formerly Association Amis-Suisses des Villages Dogons (ASVD) has been working in Mali for 30 years for the sustainable socio-economic development of rural areas in sub-Saharan Africa. EcoTech Mali ensures the successful implementation of the project on site.
Description
Mali has been experiencing significant food insecurity for many years. Local conflicts, economic and social crisis as well as drought and floods are many factors contributing to the country’s vulnerability. In an attempt to respond to this complex problem, SuisseDev plans to make five solar-powered cold rooms accessible to Malian farmers’ cooperatives in order to facilitate the conservation of crops and seeds. Thanks to the better preservation of the products made possible by refrigeration, yields can be significantly improved. In order to ensure that the cold rooms are used correctly by the owners and local farmers, training will be provided throughout the project. Regular data collection will facilitate the replication of similar projects.
Results
Five cold rooms equipped with photovoltaic panels have been built. They are operational and used by retailers. Three economic models have been developed, namely: sale in tranches to farmers’ organizations (two rooms sold), sale in tranches to economic operators (no sales made, but discussions are ongoing), and Cooling as a Service. Finally, training sessions on the use of the cold rooms and best practices have been held.
Impacts
As a result of the project, more than 200 farmers now have access to refrigerated storage methods, reducing post-harvest losses and improving economic profitability. In addition, 24 people, including one-third women, have been trained in cold storage technology and preservation methods. Thanks to the training of 10 technicians and engineers, local partner EcoTech Mali is now able to replicate the results achieved and market new cold rooms. Finally, it should be noted that the income from cold room sales has enabled EcoTech Mali to reinvest CHF 56,152 in the purchase of solar and refrigeration components.