This archive report was first published on 31 October 2019.
On October 31, 2019, Azuri Technologies announced that its innovative GrowFast solar irrigation system had been selected as a finalist in the 2019 Global LEAP Awards.
The GrowFast system, currently being piloted in Uganda, is designed to provide a sustainable water supply to smallholder farmers across Sub-Saharan Africa. It comprises a submersible pump, 2 x 100W folding solar panels, flexible hose and sprinkler, plus a control unit with Bluetooth connection to Azuri's smartphone and GrowFast app.
According to Simon Bransfield-Garth, CEO of Azuri Technologies, energy-efficient and affordable solar water pumps have the potential to be a critical enabler of economic growth and security for smallholder farmers across Africa.
With around 95% of farmed land in sub-Saharan Africa relying solely on unpredictable seasonal rainfall to meet water needs, solar water solutions like Azuri GrowFast can play a vital role in delivering a sustainable water supply in an increasingly climate-sensitive world.
The Global LEAP Awards, an initiative of the Efficiency for Access Coalition with support from UKaid and Power Africa, is an international competition that identifies and promotes the world's best, most energy-efficient off-grid appliances and equipment.
Azuri, a leading provider of pay-as-you-go solar power lighting and TV systems, has been operating in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Nigeria since its launch in 2012.
Azuri GrowFast customers also benefit from regular visits and expert advice from agronomists who help inform and educate farmers on modern farming techniques that will help improve harvests and yields.
