Environmental research

Context: In addition to lighting, solar power can be used for productive purposes. At Nyatwali, Kunzugu ward, Serengeti Division, a Community Based Organization called Nyatwali is undertaking irrigation farming. Before SGP support, the group used bucket irrigation. Through the SGP support, the group improved the irrigation infrastructure by establishing a solar irrigation system. They have solar farm, pump and a 120m3 reservoir tank. However, due to a soft soil structure, water flow to the gardens is lost due to sippage. It is estimated that only 40% of water flowing from the tank reach the farms. To avert this loss, it is proposed to line the main canal (400mts) and secondary canals (1,800 mts). Further improvements are proposed at the in-take, division boxes and the reservoir tank in order to increase efficiency. About the proponent: The Nyatwali Group was established in 2002. In 2004, the group received a grant from the SGP to establish solar irrigation system. At the same another group at the village received a grant from the Government of Japan for diesel powered irrigation system. To differentiate the two groups, the one that received support from SGP was identified as Nyatwali UNDP Group while the other that received support from Japan was known as Nyatwali Japan Group. Both groups are recognized by the District Government. Agricultural extension staff are assigned to both groups to provide expertise on daily basis. Project Objective: To increase efficiency of solar powered irrigation system by lining main and secondary canals and improving irrigation infrastructures.

Tanzania