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Project
Overview
COUNTRY: Uganda
LOCATION: West Nile region (with operations in multiple central markets)
INDUSTRY FOCUS: Sustainable cooling, Cold chain solutions, Food preservation
Chumba Baridi Ltd provides sustainable cooling and cold chain solutions to address post-harvest food losses in Uganda. The project implements solar-powered cold rooms and Zero Energy Cooling Chambers (ZECC), offering flexible pay-as-you-store services for farmers, vendors, and distributors. The initiative aims to revolutionize food preservation while promoting sustainable practices in the agricultural sector.
Problem Statement
Uganda faces a critical challenge with approximately 40% of food crops being lost due to post-harvest spoilage. This significant waste is primarily caused by limited storage facilities, poor transportation infrastructure, and limited access to electricity. The situation particularly affects small-holder farmers and market vendors, resulting in substantial economic losses and food insecurity. The lack of proper cooling facilities contributes to reduced income for farmers and increased food prices for consumers.
Solution
The project implements a multi-faceted approach including solar-powered cold rooms, Zero Energy Cooling Chambers, and refrigerated transport solutions. The technology suite includes pay-as-you-store facilities accessible via mobile money, making it convenient for users. The solution has already demonstrated success with over 120 Zero Energy Cooling Chambers constructed and two solar power cold room systems installed. The project also provides comprehensive training to farmers and technicians, ensuring sustainable operation and maintenance of the facilities.
Project Stages
The project has successfully completed its initial implementation phase, establishing operations in key markets and training over 200 farmers through WWF partnerships. Currently, it is expanding into the fish storage and transport sector while developing new business lines for industrial and export cold storage solutions. The project is also exploring clean cooking technology integration and plans to scale up operations across Uganda's central markets.
Impact
The project has created significant positive outcomes, serving 400 market vendors in Arua alone and training 30 solar technicians and 10 welding technicians. It has improved income stability for farmers and vendors while reducing food waste. The initiative contributes to environmental sustainability through solar power utilization and improves food security by extending the shelf life of agricultural products. The project also supports economic development by creating employment opportunities and enhancing the agricultural value chain.
Stakeholders
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Project Management Team led by Dr. Andogah Geofrey and Eng. Opio Innocent Miria
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Technical experts in various fields
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Market vendors and farmer associations
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World Wildlife Fund (WWF)
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Local markets and distribution networks
Funding
Total Investment Required for Fish Transport and Sales Expansion: $350,000
Breakdown of Investment:
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Refrigerated Fish Truck: $120,000
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Modular Fish Freezers: $60,000
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Industrial Ice Maker: $30,000
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Warehouse/Space Rent (1 Year): $50,000
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Operations & Marketing: $40,000
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Employee Salaries: $30,000
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Maintenance & Utilities: $20,000
Financial Projections:
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Annual Revenue: $900,000
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Operating Costs: $350,000
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Net Annual Profit: $250,000
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ROI: 83% in Year 1 (with 5% annual growth projection)
Current Investment Focus: Seeking funding, technology partnerships, and joint venture opportunities for expansion.
