In Rwanda, small-scale dairy farmers often face a frustrating challenge: large amounts of milk go bad before reaching collection centers. Without reliable refrigeration, many are forced to dispose of spoiled milk or sell it at a much lower price. This not only reduces household income but also affects milk-processing factories that depend on a steady supply of quality raw milk.
Concerned about these losses, a team of researchers from the University of Rwanda under the support of UR-Sweden Program, in partnership with private sector stakeholders, set out to design a solution that could preserve milk for longer periods while being affordable and practical for rural farmers. Their answer was a solar-powered milk cooling system tailored for areas with limited or no access to electricity.
The system, developed under the leadership of Fabien Mukundukize, a lecturer in electrical engineering at UR, combines solar panels, a battery, and a custom-built cooling tank. Together, these components allow farmers to safely store milk until it is collected, preventing premature fermentation and spoilage.
“This innovation ensures better milk quality and less waste for farmers awaiting buyers in areas without refrigeration access,” Mukundukize explained. He added that the project is currently awaiting certification from the Rwanda Standards Board (RSB), a key step before it can be rolled out widely.
Beyond addressing milk losses, the solar-powered cooler holds broader benefits. By reducing wastage, it helps farmers increase profits, boosts supply to milk-processing factories, and supports Rwanda’s vision of strengthening food security through sustainable innovations. The technology also demonstrates how renewable energy can power practical, local solutions to rural challenges.
If widely adopted, this innovation could transform the dairy sector by turning what was once a loss into an opportunity; ensuring that every drop of milk counts for farmers, factories, and families across Rwanda.