Solar Village Ethiopia is a social startup focused on harnessing solar energy to improve living conditions and livelihoods for rural communities in Ethiopia. Born out of the urgent need for irrigation water and food security in rural areas, Solar Village Ethiopia has developed a collaborative model with the international organization Oxfam. Through this partnership, the startup has provided solar-powered water pumps, vermicompost beds, and nutritious plant seedlings to smallholder farmers.
A key highlight of Solar Village Ethiopia’s solution is its solar-powered water pump system, which is flexibly designed to automatically rotate toward the sun to maximize efficiency. These pumps are not only effective but also shared among multiple households, helping reduce the initial investment cost and fostering a sense of community.
Alongside its irrigation solution, Solar Village Ethiopia has also implemented vermicompost beds. Organic fertilizer produced through this method improves soil quality, enhances water retention, and provides natural nutrients for crops, reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. Additionally, distributing nutrient-rich seedlings helps farmers diversify their crops, improve climate resilience, and enhance sustainable income sources.
To expand access to climate-smart agricultural solutions, Solar Village Ethiopia works closely with Siinqee Bank through a loan guarantee fund. This initiative enables women- and youth-led enterprises to access funding more easily, promoting gender equality and driving local economic development.
As part of P4G Vietnam 2025, Solar Village Ethiopia showcased its solar-powered agricultural model in the startup technology exhibition area, drawing attention from various local and international organizations. This participation was supported by the National Startup Support Center (NSSC) through booth arrangement, media engagement, and facilitation of connections with international partners. By joining the event, this startup not only gained opportunities to expand its technological partnerships but also connected with potential investors through the investment matchmaking program—opening new pathways for the sustainable development of climate-resilient smart agriculture models in Africa.
