Ghana Expands Solar Irrigation Drive

Key Figures & Findings: Ghana’s Ministry of Food and Agriculture has commissioned 10 new solar-powered boreholes in the north to support irrigation under the government’s Feed Ghana program. Backed by Canada, the initiative will expand with 15 additional boreholes by 2026, targeting year-round vegetable farming and empowering women farmers. 

Statistics & Insights: The broader strategy includes the installation of 3,500 solar pumps by 2028, with 400 pumps scheduled for 2026, ultimately aiming to cover 1 million hectares with solar irrigation. Yet, as of 2022, only 3% of Ghana’s 7.4 million 

Future Implications: If implemented as planned, Ghana’s solar irrigation program could significantly enhance agricultural productivity, reduce reliance on rain-fed farming, and thereby strengthen food security. The approach may also serve as a model for other West African nations confronting climate risks and unstable crop yields.

Source: Ecofin Agency

Quick Take: Ghana doubles down on solar irrigation, commissioning boreholes and a new 1 MW solar plant to advance its 400,000-hectare food security plan.