Project Title: Distributable Renewable Energy Eco-Systems Model (DREEM) Hub Project

Project Title: Distributable Renewable Energy Eco-Systems Model (DREEM) Hub Project

Project Theme: Demonstrating the Productive Use of Solar Energy on a Model Farm in Bukalango, Busiro

…Shaping a Sustainable Agricultural Future for Buganda…

Access to affordable and sustainable energy is essential for boosting agricultural productivity, ensuring food security, and driving rural development. In this regard, solar energy stands out as a clean, reliable, and cost-effective solution for powering critical agricultural processes — including irrigation, processing, storage, and lighting.

Despite its transformative potential, limited awareness and the high upfront costs of solar-powered technology have slowed adoption in rural communities. The Kabaka Foundation, in partnership with Heifer International Uganda and with support from the Charles Stewart MOTT Foundation, is addressing this gap through the DREEM Hub Project.

A Model for Learning and Innovation

The DREEM Hub Project is establishing a demonstration farm located in Bukalango, Busiro to serve as a center for learning, showcasing how solar energy can be harnessed to improve farming efficiency and productivity. The farm will feature practical, real-world applications such as solar-powered irrigation systems, water pumping, cold storage, and energy-efficient lighting — all designed to reduce costs and improve yields for smallholder farmers.

The project is committed to transferring this knowledge across all 18 counties of Buganda, with an ambitious target of directly engaging over 500,000 farmers, community leaders, and stakeholders.

Progress

October 15th, 2024, the Vice President of the Charles Stewart MOTT Foundation, Mr. Neal Hegarty, visited Bulange Mengo and also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Kabaka Foundation and Heifer International Uganda — a partnership anchored in promoting modern, sustainable, and climatesmart agricultural practices.

The project was formally launched by the Kabaka on January 8th, 2025, at the Buganda Heritage Tourism Board conference hall. The inception meeting gathered 91 key stakeholders — including farmers, county chiefs, and agricultural leaders — who came together to discuss challenges, share insights, and map a shared path forward for the rollout of solar-powered farming solutions.

Demonstration Farm Development

The Kabaka Foundation allocated 2.3 acres of land for the demonstration farm in Bukalango, with substantial progress already achieved. Work completed so far includes: Land clearing and fencing, Soil testing and demarcation and the Development of a water source in preparation for the solar irrigation system installation installation. The model farm will demonstrate diversified horticulture, including bananas, legumes, grains, coffee, and vegetables.

Community Awareness and Capacity Building

So far, the project has reached over 1,000 farmers through community meetings and farm visits, raising awareness about the benefits of integrating solar technology into agriculture. To strengthen internal capacity, Kabaka Foundation staff also underwent specialized training at the Joint Energy and Environment Projects (JEEP) on the productive use of solar energy in agricultural value chains. The Foundation has also been involved in National and District level dialogues on the Productive use of solar in agriculture.

Lessons Learned and Community Feedback

Community engagement has highlighted the urgent need for both technical and financial support. While farmers are eager to adopt solar-powered solutions, the high upfront cost of equipment remains a major barrier. There is also growing recognition of the importance of farmer cooperatives in securing financing, as well as partnerships with NGOs, government agencies, and financial institutions.

Changing mindsets, especially among the youth, has also emerged as a priority. The DREEM Hub Project is actively working to reshape perceptions around agriculture — promoting it as a modern, profitable, and sustainable livelihood.

Building Strong Partnerships for Greater Impact

The success of the DREEM Hub Project is grounded in the strength of its partnerships. The Kabaka Foundation continues to work alongside a network of both private and public collaborators, including:

• Heifer International Uganda
• Ministry of Agriculture, Cooperatives, and Trade – Buganda Kingdom
• Buganda Heritage Tourism Board (BHTB)
• Buganda Cultural and Development Foundation (BUCADEF)
• Ssaza and Gombolola Administrations
• BBS Terefayina, CBS FM, CBS Radio 89.2
• Samula Agricultural & Engineering, Eng. John Mary
• Joint Energy and Environment Projects (JEEP)
• WOOD CO U LTD and Isabirye Construction Company – Wakiso

Looking Ahead

The coming months hold exciting prospects for the DREEM Hub Project, including:

• Installation of a solar-powered Cold Storage Facility at the demonstration farm
• Sensitization of over 3,000 farmers in Busiro, Ssingo, and Kyaddondo
• Training of 50 Community-Based Solar Technicians for system maintenance and repair
• Hosting Farmer Field Days at the model farm, targeting at least 500 farmers
• Expanding partnerships to scale the reach and impact of sustainable agriculture throughout Buganda

Lighting the Path to a Greener Tomorrow

Through the DREEM Hub Project, the Kabaka Foundation is proud to lead the way in advancing climate-smart agriculture in Buganda. By combining renewable energy with modern farming techniques, we are equipping our communities with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships they need to build a resilient and prosperous future.

Together, we are lighting the path for Buganda’s agricultural transformation.