Agricultural leaders, state officials, and tech vendors met in Namanve to promote the expansion of automated and solar-driven water delivery methods. Nile Post reported that the second Green Drops Summit, hosted by Sprinktech, focused on using modern automation and partnerships to boost crop yields and secure food supplies against erratic weather. The gathering aimed to address the growing instability of seasonal rains and extended dry periods impacting local agriculture.
Javan Mukundane, head of Sprinktech, explained that the firm launched in 2017 to address shifting climatic conditions. He noted that water delivery has moved past manual labor, with new automated tools allowing growers to track soil moisture and water levels from a distance. Nile Post detailed that these setups rely on smart controllers created with tech partners, enabling more efficient water use for those without direct water access.
International and local firm representatives presented various technological options during the event. Karin Jeannette, CEO of Swiss firm ENNOS AG, stressed that collaboration among tech providers is vital for delivering practical farming solutions. Gaurav Sharma, representing Kirloskar Fluid Dynamics, pointed out that solar-driven pumps offer a workable alternative for growers facing inconsistent power, allowing them to extract water without full reliance on the national grid.
State officials also addressed the core role of water in farming. Dominic Banaga Mucunguzi, a senior official in Uganda’s water ministry, stated that consistent water supply is fundamental to production. He stressed the need to balance demands from farming, hydropower, and other users while directing water to where it is most needed. Nile Post noted that Mucunguzi identified issues from water scarcity to heavy rains and poor water quality as key hurdles.
The summit also featured demonstrations of specific technologies, including laser irrigation by Laserspray and drip methods. Presentations showcased service-based irrigation models that link pumps with Internet of Things sensors and mobile apps. Nile Post indicated that while these innovations offer potential cost savings and improved efficiency, their success depends on affordable gear, steady water sources, and adequate technical support for small-scale producers.