Solar-Powered Milking Technology Boosts Efficiency for Malawi's Dairy Farmers
Source: DairyNews.today
The introduction of solar-powered milking and water pumping technology is transforming small-scale dairy farming in rural Malawi. Developed by the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), the system has significantly enhanced farm efficiency and quality of life for farmers, including early adopter Robert Mbendera in the Dedza district.
Mbendera, who previously spent up to 160 minutes daily milking by hand, now requires only 8 to 10 minutes per session using the solar-powered device. “I now have more time for other important activities,” he noted, highlighting the system’s benefits in water supply and labor savings.
Following the successful pilot, Malawi's National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) is aiming to scale up the initiative across rural areas. Supported by the Science and Technology Fund and implemented with Orifice Irrigation and Water Supply Limited, the project provides energy to power milking machines, water pumps, and household lights—essential for early morning and evening milking.
Lead researcher Grivin Chipula explained, “The system uses a solar-operated submersible pump to draw water to a raised tank, providing easy access for both livestock and household needs.” The technology has yielded marked improvements, with market tests showing zero milk rejections and farmers able to redirect time previously spent on water collection to other income-generating activities.
Increased interest among local farmers is evident, with many seeking to invest in this solar technology. To promote further adoption, LUANAR researchers recommend government subsidies and tax waivers, which would enable more smallholder farmers to modernize and expand production in an energy-constrained region.
“This innovation holds potential to drive Malawi’s socio-economic development by empowering smallholders, who form the backbone of the nation’s agro-based economy,” said Mike Kachedwa, NCST’s chief research services officer. By improving productivity and allowing farmers like Mbendera to access reliable energy, the project is poised to transform rural dairy farming in Malawi.
Following the successful pilot, Malawi's National Commission for Science and Technology (NCST) is aiming to scale up the initiative across rural areas. Supported by the Science and Technology Fund and implemented with Orifice Irrigation and Water Supply Limited, the project provides energy to power milking machines, water pumps, and household lights—essential for early morning and evening milking.
Lead researcher Grivin Chipula explained, “The system uses a solar-operated submersible pump to draw water to a raised tank, providing easy access for both livestock and household needs.” The technology has yielded marked improvements, with market tests showing zero milk rejections and farmers able to redirect time previously spent on water collection to other income-generating activities.
Increased interest among local farmers is evident, with many seeking to invest in this solar technology. To promote further adoption, LUANAR researchers recommend government subsidies and tax waivers, which would enable more smallholder farmers to modernize and expand production in an energy-constrained region.
“This innovation holds potential to drive Malawi’s socio-economic development by empowering smallholders, who form the backbone of the nation’s agro-based economy,” said Mike Kachedwa, NCST’s chief research services officer. By improving productivity and allowing farmers like Mbendera to access reliable energy, the project is poised to transform rural dairy farming in Malawi.
