Uganda - Business creation project

Describe your project or startup in a few words

A novel clean technology for simultaneous cooling and drying fruits and vegetables. Its major aim is to prevent post-harvest loss due to spoilage. Increases shelf life and value of harvested produce. Efficient utilization of energy without pollution.

01.01 Describe your project in more detail

The test materials are tomatoes which am going to get from a farmer who grows them in Luwero district. We plan to establish the business in Luwero district because it has tomatoes farmers and we managed to acquire a space to carry out the test project. The tomatoes are going to be preserved for 3 months by cooling at 12 degree Celsius to prevent them from spoilage. The heat energy discharged from the cooling room will be dissipated to the condenser connected in the drying room to dry other fruits and vegetables which will be placed on meshed trays connected with chrome wires that will be connected to the condenser .The source of energy to be used is solar energy to provide power. We aim to establish this technology in areas where perishable crops are grown and position it in inaccessible locations for most farmers. We are interested in solving the poor storage problem of the farmers' post-harvest produce by improving their storage facilities.

01.02 What is the main problem you are trying to solve?

The problem we have identified is losses in perishable crops, during the peak season, the produce is too much and the market cannot absorb it all, this therefore leads to the spoilage of the surplus. According to the survey I did, farmers tend to sell their produce at low prices like UGX 50,000 per crate of tomatoes during the peak season while it is normally sold at UGX 250,000 thus a decrease in their home and standards of living. During the off-season, the produce is low which leads to it being sold expensively and this impacts the market sellers and customers. The existence of poor storage facilities highly accelerates the rate of spoilage of perishable crops.

01.03 Tell us the major benefits and/or advantages of using the product/service that your project intends to provide (at least 3).

Round the year availability of fresh fruits and vegetables Improve the income levels of small-scale farmers of fruits and vegetables Contributing to the sustainable development goal of zero hunger Saving people from using genetically modified crops which can be harmful to people. Providing accessibility of these technologies to small-scale farmers. Provide nutritious value-added products to society Elimination of food lost to spoilage and unfriendly climatic conditions Improving storage facilities of food crops Increasing market on both local and international standards Improving energy efficiency

01.04 Please describe who exactly your project is aimed at serving. Who are the targeted beneficiaries?

Small-scale farmers are farmers with a low asset base and operating in less than 2 hectares of cropland. large-scale farmers are farmers who practice industrial or commercial farming, which refers to agricultural practices where extensive areas of land are used. Markets cover the services involved in moving an agricultural product from the farm to the consumer Industries where industrial activity involves the processing, cleaning, packing, or storage of the results from agricultural production. Export: Uganda mostly exports agricultural products (80 percent of total exports). The most important exports is coffee tea, cotton, copper, oil, and fish. Hence there is a need to increase export of perishable produce.

01.05 When did you start working on your project?

2023-11-25

01.06 How many other partners are associated with your business venture?

7

01.07 Among the other partners, how many are female?

3

01.08 Please describe the profile of each of the other partners (skills, experience, etc.)

Professor Kant; guides, mentors, and helps us out with the design and construction of the project. He is well-versed in the science that is needed to run the project. He is my lecturer. Kabanda Suleiman; co founder. I built the idea with him from scratch. He is an orthopedic doctor. Ochwo Kenneth; does the calculations and Solidworks designs Kyomugisha Jamie; designs the presentations, organizes collected data and information in reports Ntanda Nasser; a software developer, helps in designing the control systems Praise; Food scientist, helps in testing the standard of the preserved products. Abenaitwe Faith; industrial livestock and business, helps in planning and marketing of the business

01.09 If you have a website, a social media page (Facebook, Instagram, Linkedin…), or app, please provide the link here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/havguard-limited-3b743730b?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3BP5l6dw9jTUutPmvJDa3Alw%3D%3D

01.10 Which industry best describes your project?

l) Agriculture

02.01.01 My project contributes to the No poverty goal

6

02.01.02 No poverty - Justification

By preserving perishable foods more efficiently, farmers can sell their produce at higher prices, thus increasing their income and lifting them out of poverty. Simultaneous cooling and drying technology enables the production of value-added products such as dried fruits, vegetables, and herbs, which have a longer shelf life and can command higher prices in the market. The adoption of this technology may lead to the establishment of processing facilities and distribution networks, creating employment opportunities in rural and urban areas. Our technology can facilitate access to broader markets, including regional and international markets. This can enable producers to reach consumers beyond their immediate vicinity, expanding their customer base and increasing their revenue potential.

02.02.01 My project contributes to the Zero hunger goal

6

02.02.02 Zero hunger - Justification

This technology helps preserve perishable foods like fruits, vegetables, and grains by removing moisture and simultaneously lowering their temperature. Extending the shelf life of these foods reduces post-harvest losses due to spoilage, thereby increasing the availability of food for consumption. Our project will allow more of the harvested produce to reach consumers rather than being wasted. The technology can operate effectively in various environmental conditions, making it possible to preserve food in areas where conventional methods are impractical or unavailable. This increases the accessibility of food to populations in remote or underserved areas. Small-scale farmers lack access to modern storage and preservation facilities, leading to significant losses of their produce. Empowering these farmers to better preserve their harvests, improving their food security and economic stability thus empowering farmers to better preserve their harvests, improving their food security

02.03.01 My project contributes to the Good health and well-being goal

6

02.03.02 Good health and well-being - Justification

Proper food preservation through simultaneous cooling and drying technology reduces the risk of food spoilage and contamination, thereby lowering the incidence of foodborne illnesses. By providing safer food options, this technology helps to safeguard public health and promote well-being. Using our technology food will be preserved and dried under standard hygiene and sanitation practices. Simultaneous cooling and drying technology facilitates the preservation of a wide range of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and proteins. This supports the adoption of sustainable dietary patterns that prioritize plant-based foods and reduce reliance on processed and ultra-processed foods, which are often associated with adverse health effects.

02.04.01 My project contributes to the Quality education goal

6

02.04.02 Quality education - Justification

Enhancing agricultural education by enabling students to learn about modern food preservation techniques, the science behind simultaneous cooling and drying, and its applications in improving food security and reducing post-harvest losses. Universities and research institutions can utilize simultaneous cooling and drying technology for research purposes. This could include studies on optimizing the process for different types of produce, developing new applications, or improving energy efficiency. Education about simultaneous cooling and drying technology can raise awareness about sustainable food preservation practices. Students can learn about the importance of reducing food waste, minimizing environmental impact, and promoting sustainable agriculture. Educational institution can offer courses and workshops on simultaneous cooling and drying technology. This knowledge can empower future generations to make informed decisions that contribute to sustainable development.

02.05.01 My project contributes to the Gender equality goal

6

02.05.02 Gender equality - Justification

Traditional methods of food preservation often involve time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks, which disproportionately burden women and girls. Simultaneous cooling and drying technology automates and streamlines the preservation process, reducing the physical burden on individuals, particularly women, and allowing them to allocate their time and energy to other productive activities, including education and income-generating pursuits. The adoption of our technology can create employment opportunities in food processing and distribution sectors, where women are often underrepresented. The technology introduces women and girls to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. By providing training and educational opportunities in operating and maintaining this technology, women can develop technical skills and expertise, empowering them to pursue careers in STEM-related fields and challenging traditional gender stereotypes.

02.06.01 My project contributes to the Clean water and sanitation goal

5

02.06.02 Clean water and sanitation - Justification

This supports sustainable agriculture by maximizing the utilization of water resources and minimizing waste generation. Our innovation helps mitigate environmental pollution and contributes to overall water quality and sanitation since it uses clean energy. Solar-powered technology can operate independently of centralized energy grids, making it suitable for use in remote or off-grid areas where access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure may be limited. solar-powered technology can operate independently of centralized energy grids, making it suitable for use in remote or off-grid areas where access to clean water and sanitation infrastructure may be limited. Solar-powered simultaneous cooling and drying technology can be integrated with water-saving practices to further enhance its contribution to clean water and sanitation goals.

02.07.01 My project contributes to the Affordable and clean energy goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.07.02 Affordable and clean energy - Justification

solar-powered simultaneous cooling and drying technology contributes to the sustainable goal of affordable and clean energy by utilizing renewable energy sources, reducing energy costs, promoting energy independence, providing environmental benefits, and supporting sustainable development objectives. By harnessing the power of the sun to preserve food and reduce energy consumption, this technology helps create a more sustainable and resilient energy future for communities worldwide.

02.08.01 My project contributes to the Decent work and economic growth

6

02.08.02 Decent work and economic growth - Justification

create employment opportunities across various sectors like manufacturing, installation, maintenance, and operation of solar panels and associated equipment. Additionally, the expansion of industries related to food processing and preservation, enabled by this technology, can generate employment in rural and urban areas, contributing to economic growth and poverty reduction. It also not only reduces energy costs but also generates additional income through the sale of surplus energy to the grid or neighboring communities, fostering economic resilience and entrepreneurship. Our innovation creates opportunities for small-scale farmers and food processors to capture higher-value markets and increase their income. By facilitating market access and value chain integration, this technology promotes economic growth and creates opportunities for decent work along the agricultural value chain.

02.09.01 My project contributes to the Industry innovation and infrastructure

7 - Strongly Agree

02.09.02 Industry innovation and infrastructure - Justification

By integrating solar energy with cooling and drying systems, this technology demonstrates innovative approaches to improving energy efficiency, reducing environmental impact, and promoting sustainable industrial practices. . By modernizing infrastructure and promoting the use of sustainable technologies, this contributes to the development of resilient and efficient industrial systems. By enabling on-site food preservation using renewable energy sources, this technology reduces reliance on centralized processing facilities and long-distance transportation.

02.10.01 My project contributes to the Reduced inequalities goal

6

02.10.02 Reduced inequalities - Justification

In many regions, access to reliable energy sources is limited, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Solar-powered simultaneous cooling and drying technology provides a decentralized energy solution that can operate off-grid, enabling communities to access clean and renewable energy for food preservation. By enabling communities to preserve and store surplus produce, this technology enhances food availability and access, By providing training and educational opportunities, particularly for women and marginalized groups, this technology promotes economic empowerment and social inclusion, thus reducing inequalities in access to technology and economic opportunities.particularly during periods of scarcity or price fluctuations, thus reducing inequalities in food access and nutrition outcomes.

02.11.01 My project contributes to the Sustainable cities and communities goal

6

02.11.02 Sustainable cities and communities - Justification

The technology likely reduces energy consumption compared to traditional cooling and drying systems. By integrating both processes, it minimizes the need for separate devices, which typically consume more energy. Energy efficiency is crucial for reducing the carbon footprint of urban areas and supporting sustainable energy use. By using cleaner and more efficient technology, Anovel's system can lower greenhouse gas emissions associated with cooling and drying processes. This contributes to cleaner air and a reduction in urban heat islands, improving overall city livability. Sustainable technologies often result in cost savings over time due to lower energy and maintenance costs.It is a scalable and adaptable solution are essential for addressing the diverse needs of urban environments.The technology includes features that reduce waste, such as waste heat. It utilizes waste heat from one process to power another, leading to more efficient resource use and less environmental impact.

02.12.01 My project contributes to the Responsible consumption and production goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.12.02 Responsible consumption and production - Justification

By preserving fruits, vegetables, and grains more efficiently, it helps reduce food waste along the entire supply chain, from farm to table. This aligns with responsible consumption and production practices by minimizing the amount of food discarded due to spoilage and improving overall resource efficiency.By reducing reliance on non-renewable energy sources, it promotes responsible energy consumption and production practices, contributing to lower greenhouse gas emissions and environmental impact. It allows farmers and food processors to preserve seasonal produce and meet local demand year-round, reducing the need for long-distance transportation and associated carbon emissions. By tracking factors such as temperature, humidity, and energy consumption, it provides valuable data insights that can be used to optimize production processes, minimize waste, and ensure product quality and safety. This transparency empowers consumers to make informed choices about product they purchase.

02.13.01 My project contributes to the Climate action goal

7 - Strongly Agree

02.13.02 Climate action - Justification

By harnessing solar energy to power cooling and drying processes, this technology significantly reduces reliance on fossil fuels, which are major contributors to greenhouse gas emissions. Traditional methods of food preservation often involve the burning of wood or other biomass fuels, leading to deforestation and associated carbon emissions. This technology helps maintain carbon sinks that absorb and store atmospheric carbon dioxide, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. By enabling off-grid operation and reducing dependence on fossil fuels, this technology enhances resilience to climate variability and ensures continuity of food preservation processes even during extreme weather events.

02.14.01 My project contributes to the Life below water goal

5

02.14.02 Life below water - Justification

Traditional cooling and drying methods often involve chemical refrigerants or fuels, which can pollute water bodies through runoff or air pollution through emissions. Solar-powered technologies eliminate or significantly reduce such pollutants, promoting cleaner water and air quality, essential for marine life and ecosystems. Adopting solar-powered technologies for cooling and drying promotes the use of renewable energy sources and encourages sustainable practices. This sets an example for other industries and communities to follow suit, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of achieving sustainability, including preservation of marine ecosystems and biodiversity.

02.15.01 My project contributes to the Life on land goal

6

02.15.02 Life on land - Justification

By harnessing solar power instead of relying on fossil fuels for energy, these technologies help reduce carbon emissions. This mitigation of greenhouse gases contributes to combating climate change, which is vital for preserving terrestrial ecosystems, biodiversity, and habitats. The technology often employs more efficient systems compared to conventional methods, leading to reduced energy consumption. This helps in conserving natural resources and minimizes the environmental impact associated with energy production and consumption. It can be deployed in remote or off-grid areas, providing access to energy and improving the livelihoods of communities hence ontributing to the sustainable development of land-based ecosystems and communities.

02.16.01 My project contributes to the Peace justice and strong institutions goal

5

02.16.02 Peace justice and strong institutions - Justification

Access to sustainable energy sources such as solar power can mitigate resource-related conflicts. By reducing reliance on finite resources like fossil fuels, which are often a source of contention, solar-powered technologies can help prevent conflicts over energy access and distribution. Our technology can stimulate economic growth, particularly in rural and underserved areas. This economic development can help address inequalities and contribute to social stability, reducing the likelihood of conflict and promoting peace. By providing education and skills development opportunities, these initiatives empower individuals and strengthen local institutions. This, in turn, fosters a more resilient and inclusive society, conducive to peace and justice. By promoting resilience to climate-related challenges such as extreme weather events and resource scarcity, these technologies contribute to stability and peace, as communities are better equipped to adapt to environmental changes.

02.17.01 My project contributes to the Partnerships for the goal

6

02.17.02 Partnerships for the goal - Justification

This knowledge sharing can help build the capacity of local communities and institutions to adopt and utilize these technologies effectively, contributing to their sustainable use and impact. Partnerships can help mobilize resources, including financial investments, technical assistance, and human capital, to support the development and deployment of solar-powered cooling and drying technologies. By pooling resources and expertise, partnerships can leverage collective strengths to address common challenges and achieve shared goals more efficiently and effectively.

05.01 There are a large number of customers who already use a product/service very similar to the product/service we envision creating.

5

05.02 The product/service we envision creating represents an entirely new type of product/service.

6

05.03 The product/service we envision creating could be described as a new technology.

6

05.04 The product/service we envision creating is an improvement on an existing product or service.

5

05.05 The product/service we envision creating could be described as an extension of a range of products or services.

6

05.06 The product/service we envision creating responds to a demand or need that has not been satisfied by other products/services.

6

05.07 The product/service we envision creating is a new version of an old product/service.

2

05.08 Justification

raditional methods often involve separate processes for cooling and drying, which can be time-consuming and energy-intensive. The innovation lies in combining these processes into a single system. The technology can optimize energy usage and reduce overall energy consumption compared to conventional methods. The simultaneous cooling and drying process may preserve the nutritional quality of fruits and vegetables more effectively compared to traditional methods. Rapid cooling helps retain freshness and nutrients, while controlled drying prevents degradation without the need for excessive heat. This innovation increases efficiency and throughput, allowing for faster production and shorter lead times. it is suitable for a wide range of applications and agricultural products. The technology may be scalable to accommodate varying production capacities, from small-scale operations to large industrial facilities.

05.09 Who are your main potential competitors and what makes you stand out from them?

Companies providing a variety of agricultural machinery and equipment, including those for drying and cooling. Companies focusing on renewable energy solutions and sustainable agricultural equipment. Companies providing post-harvest processing equipment, including dryers and coolers for fruits and vegetables. Companies providing solar-powered solutions, including solar dryers for agricultural products. TechnoServe Uganda: Not a direct supplier of technology, but works with agribusinesses to improve their post-harvest processing capabilities, often introducing new technologies.

10.06 Are you initiating actions within your community to promote the role of female entrepreneurs?

Yes, for example, I have a baking business at university and I teach my female friends to bake. I used to sell veils at the university. I encourage fellow ladies to join the Busitema University Start Hub community whose belief is that Africa's entrepreneurs can shape Africa's future. Help them actualize passion into tangible scalable enterprizes.