News Launch of the SOLIZA project in Zanzibar

In September, the Urbis Foundation joined the launch of SOLIZA – Solar-Powered Irrigation and Sustainable Agriculture in Zanzibar. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Urbis Foundation. On the ground, the Tanzania Renewable Energy Association (TAREA), the Zanzibar Renewable Energy Development Organisation (ZAREDO) and Tanzania Mwangaza (TAM) are working together to implement it.
Many farmers in Zanzibar depend on rainfall to irrigate their fields. Irregular rainfall makes vegetable growing more difficult and harvests less reliable. At the same time, an unstable electricity supply limits the use of electric water pumps. SOLIZA addresses these challenges by introducing solar-powered irrigation. Three solar-powered irrigation systems are being established for women’s cooperatives in the villages of Kitogani, Fujoni and Ukongoroni. The cooperatives will also receive practical training in climate-resilient farming and efficient water management. The project will support them with farm management, marketing and income planning. On demonstration plots, the cooperatives can test new farming methods. Female mentors will share their knowledge with other farmers and engage educational and research institutions. During the visit, the Urbis Foundation met with representatives of Zanzibar’s Utilities Regulatory Authority (ZURA), as well as the ministries responsible for agriculture and energy. Both institutions pledged their full support for the project. The Urbis Foundation looks forward to working with its partners to promote sustainable agriculture and expand economic opportunities for women in Zanzibar.