How Ugandan Agri-tech Duo Are Ending Africa’s Wait for Rain

How Ugandan founders are rewiring Africa’s farming future with climate-smart irrigation

In 2023, two Ugandan engineers launched a venture that is quietly transforming how smallholder farmers across Africa grow food. Drought Guard Africa, co-founded by engineers Ivan Kasozi and Brenda Nansikombi, designs and installs climate-smart irrigation, clean water systems, and solar-powered energy solutions tailored for rural farmers, refugee settlements, and underserved communities. By 2026, their systems are already serving thousands of users in Uganda, Kenya, and Nigeria, offering a lifeline against the growing unpredictability of rainfall.

For decades, African agriculture has danced to the rhythm of the rain. But with climate change intensifying droughts and floods, waiting for the skies to cooperate is no longer an option. Kasozi and Nansikombi saw this crisis not as a dead end, but as an opportunity to build resilience from the ground up. Their approach combines renewable energy, efficient water delivery, and community-centred design—delivering a triple win: higher yields, lower costs, and greater food security.

From Kampala to Kaduna: The journey of a climate-smart irrigation pioneer

Drought Guard Africa began as a pilot in 2023, installing solar-powered drip irrigation systems for maize and vegetable farmers in central Uganda. The early results were striking: farmers using the system reported up to 300% increases in harvests and 50% reductions in water use compared to traditional flood irrigation. Word spread quickly. By 2025, the startup had expanded into Kenya’s Rift Valley and was piloting projects in Kaduna State, Nigeria.

What makes their model unique is its focus on affordability and accessibility. Most smallholder farmers in Nigeria and East Africa cannot afford diesel pumps or grid electricity. Drought Guard Africa’s systems run entirely on solar, with modular designs that allow farmers to start small and scale up. A basic setup for a one-acre plot costs about ₦2.5 million to ₦3.5 million in Nigeria, depending on terrain and water source, with financing options available through local agricultural cooperatives and impact investors.

“We didn’t want to build something only big commercial farms could use,” says Nansikombi. “Our goal is to empower the woman growing tomatoes in Kano or the refugee mother in northern Uganda to feed her family year-round.”

Why climate-smart irrigation is the future for Nigerian farmers

Nigeria’s agricultural sector employs over 36% of the workforce and contributes nearly 23% to GDP, yet it remains highly vulnerable to climate shocks. In 2024, the Nigeria Meteorological Agency (NiMet) warned that the country could face severe droughts in the Sahel and North Central regions through 2026. With Lake Chad shrinking and rainfall patterns shifting, traditional rain-fed farming is becoming a high-risk gamble.

Enter climate-smart irrigation. Unlike flood irrigation, which wastes up to 60% of water through evaporation and runoff, drip and micro-sprinkler systems deliver water directly to plant roots, cutting water use by up to 70%. Paired with solar-powered pumps, these systems eliminate reliance on erratic grid power or expensive diesel, making them ideal for off-grid and underserved communities.

In Nigeria, pilot projects in Jigawa, Kano, and Plateau states have shown that maize yields can rise from 1.5 tonnes per hectare to over 4 tonnes when irrigation is combined with improved seeds and soil management. For cash crops like tomatoes and onions, the gains are even more dramatic—some farmers have tripled their income by extending the growing season into the dry months.

“The real win isn’t just higher yields,” explains Kasozi. “It’s stability. Farmers can plan their planting cycles, access markets when prices are high, and reduce post-harvest losses, which currently cost Nigeria over ₦3.5 trillion annually.”

Solar-powered water: A lifeline for refugee settlements and rural homes

Beyond commercial farms, Drought Guard Africa is installing community water systems in refugee camps and rural villages where clean water is scarce. In Uganda’s Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, their solar-powered borehole and distribution network now serves over 5,000 people daily, reducing the burden on women and girls who previously walked kilometres to fetch water.

In northern Nigeria, where boreholes often run dry during the harmattan, the startup has deployed solar-powered submersible pumps that draw water from deeper aquifers. These systems are paired with filtration units to ensure safety, addressing the silent crisis of waterborne diseases that plague rural communities.

“Water is life, but it’s also dignity,” says Nansikombi. “When women and children no longer spend hours fetching water, they can attend school, start small businesses, or care for their families. That ripple effect changes everything.”

How it works: The technology behind the transformation

Drought Guard Africa’s systems are built around three core components: a solar array, a water pump, and an irrigation network. Here’s a breakdown of how they come together:

• Solar power: A 1.5–5 kW solar panel array powers the entire system, with battery storage to ensure 24-hour operation during cloudy days.
• Water source: Systems can draw from boreholes, rivers, or harvested rainwater, depending on local availability.
• Pump and filtration: A solar submersible or surface pump delivers water to a filtration unit, ensuring clean water for both irrigation and household use.
• Distribution: Drip lines or micro-sprinklers deliver water directly to crops, reducing waste and improving efficiency.

The company also offers training programs to help farmers maintain their systems and optimise water usage. In Nigeria, partnerships with state agricultural development programmes and NGOs have helped scale adoption in vulnerable regions.

Scaling across Africa: Partnerships that matter

To reach more farmers, Drought Guard Africa has forged alliances with governments, development agencies, and private investors. In Kenya, they work with the National Irrigation Authority to install systems in arid counties like Turkana and Marsabit. In Nigeria, collaborations with the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and local NGOs have helped deploy systems in Zamfara, Katsina, and Benue states.

International support has been crucial. The African Development Bank (AfDB) recently approved a $15 million grant to expand climate-smart irrigation across five African countries, including Nigeria and Uganda. The funding will help Drought Guard Africa and similar ventures scale their operations, reduce costs, and train thousands of farmers.

“Public-private partnerships are the only way to bridge the gap,” says Kasozi. “Governments can provide policy support and subsidies, while startups bring innovation and speed. Together, we can turn the tide on food insecurity.”

The economic case: Why irrigation pays off

Critics often argue that irrigation is too expensive for smallholder farmers. But a 2025 study by the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) found that every dollar invested in small-scale irrigation in sub-Saharan Africa generates $2.50 to $4.00 in economic returns over five years. These gains come from increased yields, reduced input costs, and the ability to grow high-value crops during the dry season.

In Nigeria, where the average smallholder farm is less than 2 hectares, adopting climate-smart irrigation can lift households out of poverty. For example, a tomato farmer in Kaduna who previously harvested 500 kg per season can now produce 2,000 kg by irrigating during the dry months, selling surplus at peak prices. With Nigeria importing over $1.2 billion worth of tomatoes annually, local production gains translate directly into job creation and economic resilience.

“This isn’t just about farming,” says Nansikombi. “It’s about unlocking economic potential in rural areas, where most of Africa’s population lives. When farmers earn more, they spend more—on education, healthcare, and local businesses. That’s how you build a thriving economy from the ground up.”

Challenges and how they’re being addressed

Despite the promise, scaling climate-smart irrigation in Africa faces hurdles. High upfront costs, limited access to finance, and cultural resistance to new technologies are common barriers. In some communities, farmers are sceptical of solar systems, preferring traditional methods they’ve used for generations.

Drought Guard Africa tackles these challenges through education and flexible financing. They offer lease-to-own models, where farmers pay in instalments over 2–3 years, with payments tied to harvest income. In Nigeria, partnerships with microfinance banks have made loans more accessible, while government subsidies in some states cover up to 50% of installation costs for women-led farms.

Another challenge is maintenance. Solar panels and pumps require technical know-how, so the company trains local technicians and sets up repair hubs in rural areas. “We’re not just installing systems; we’re building ecosystems,” says Kasozi. “That means training, spare parts, and ongoing support.”

What’s next for climate-smart irrigation in Africa?

By 2027, Drought Guard Africa aims to reach 50,000 farmers across Nigeria, Uganda, and Kenya, with plans to expand into Ghana, Tanzania, and Ethiopia. Their roadmap includes:

• Developing AI-driven irrigation scheduling tools that optimise water use based on weather forecasts and soil moisture data.
• Introducing mobile-based payment and monitoring systems to improve transparency and reduce fraud in subsidy programmes.
• Partnering with seed and fertiliser companies to offer bundled solutions that maximise yields.
• Advocating for stronger policies that incentivise irrigation adoption, such as tax breaks for solar-powered agricultural equipment.

The broader vision is to make climate-smart irrigation as common as mobile money in Africa—ubiquitous, accessible, and transformative. “We’re not waiting for rain anymore,” says Nansikombi. “We’re creating our own rain.”

Lessons for Nigerian agri-tech startups

Drought Guard Africa’s success offers valuable lessons for Nigerian entrepreneurs looking to innovate in agriculture. Here are three key takeaways:

1. Solve a real problem, not just a trend. The founders identified a critical gap—food insecurity driven by climate change—and built a solution that addresses multiple needs: water, energy, and income. Their systems don’t just irrigate crops; they power homes, purify water, and empower communities.
2. Design for affordability and scalability. By using modular, solar-powered systems, they made their technology accessible to smallholder farmers. Their lease-to-own models and partnerships with cooperatives have lowered the barrier to entry.
3. Build ecosystems, not just products. Training, maintenance, and community engagement are as important as the technology itself. Without local buy-in and support, even the best innovation will struggle to scale.

For Nigerian startups, the message is clear: the future of farming isn’t just about seeds and soil. It’s about water, energy, and resilience. And with the right approach, Africa’s farmers can turn climate challenges into opportunities.

How to get started with climate-smart irrigation in Nigeria

If you’re a Nigerian farmer or agri-entrepreneur interested in adopting climate-smart irrigation, here’s a step-by-step guide to get you started:

1. Assess your water source. Do you have a borehole, river, or harvested rainwater? The availability and depth of your water source will determine the type of system you need.
2. Calculate your budget. A basic solar-powered drip irrigation system for a one-acre plot costs between ₦2.5 million and ₦3.5 million. Consider financing options through agricultural cooperatives, microfinance banks, or government programmes like the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme.
3. Choose the right system. For vegetables and high-value crops, drip irrigation is ideal. For larger plots of maize or cassava, micro-sprinklers may be more efficient.
4. Get trained. Look for workshops offered by NGOs, state agricultural development programmes, or companies like Drought Guard Africa. Training covers system installation, maintenance, and water management.
5. Monitor and optimise. Use soil moisture sensors and weather forecasts to adjust irrigation schedules. Many modern systems come with mobile apps that provide real-time data and alerts.

Remember, the goal isn’t just to grow more food—it’s to grow smarter, use resources wisely, and build resilience for the future.

FAQ: Your questions on climate-smart irrigation answered

1. Is climate-smart irrigation only for large commercial farms?

No. While large farms can certainly benefit, most climate-smart irrigation systems are designed for smallholder farmers. Companies like Drought Guard Africa offer modular systems that can start small—even for a quarter-acre plot—and scale up as needed. The key is affordability and accessibility, which is why solar-powered, off-grid systems are ideal for rural areas.

2. How much water does a climate-smart irrigation system save compared to traditional methods?

Traditional flood irrigation can waste up to 60% of water through evaporation and runoff. Climate-smart systems, particularly drip irrigation, deliver water directly to plant roots, reducing water use by up to 70%. This not only conserves a precious resource but also lowers energy costs, as less water needs to be pumped.

3. What kind of training is required to operate and maintain these systems?

Most systems come with basic training on installation, operation, and maintenance. Farmers learn how to set up the irrigation lines, monitor water flow, and perform routine checks on the solar panels and pump. Companies like Drought Guard Africa also partner with local technicians to provide ongoing support and repairs. The learning curve is typically short—many farmers are operational within a week.

4. Are there government incentives or subsidies for adopting climate-smart irrigation in Nigeria?

Yes. The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, offers various incentives, including subsidies, low-interest loans, and tax breaks for agricultural equipment, including irrigation systems. States like Kaduna, Kano, and Plateau have also launched programmes to support irrigation adoption, particularly for women and youth-led farms. Check with your local agricultural development programme for specific opportunities.

5. Can climate-smart irrigation help during Nigeria’s dry season?

Absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of climate-smart irrigation is the ability to grow crops year-round, even during the dry season. This is particularly valuable for high-value crops like tomatoes, onions, and peppers, which can fetch premium prices when supply is low. By extending the growing season, farmers can increase their income and reduce reliance on seasonal harvests.

Join the movement: How you can support

The shift to climate-smart irrigation isn’t just the work of startups and governments. Consumers, investors, and advocates all have a role to play. Here’s how you can get involved:

• As a farmer: Reach out to local agricultural extension services or companies like Drought Guard Africa to explore irrigation options. Attend training workshops and connect with other farmers who have adopted the technology.
• As an investor: Look for agri-tech funds and impact investment platforms that support climate-smart irrigation. Your capital can help scale innovative solutions and reach more farmers.
• As a consumer: Support local farmers who use sustainable practices by buying their produce at markets or through farm-to-table initiatives. Advocate for policies that promote water and energy efficiency in agriculture.
• As an advocate: Raise awareness about the importance of climate-smart irrigation in your community. Share success stories, organise workshops, and push for stronger government support.

Together, we can build a future where no farmer has to wait for rain to feed their family or grow their business. The tools are here. The time is now.

For more information on Drought Guard Africa’s systems and projects, visit their official coverage on TechCabal.

Editor’s note: This article is based on publicly available information and interviews with the founders of Drought Guard Africa. It aims to highlight innovative solutions in African agriculture but does not constitute financial or technical advice. Farmers and investors should conduct their own due diligence before making decisions.

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