Kenyan climate-tech startup SunCulture has secured a $5 million investment from WaterEquity, marking the first deal under its newly established Water & Climate Resilience Fund. This funding will support SunCulture’s mission to provide solar-powered irrigation solutions to smallholder farmers across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Founded in 2013 by Samir Ibrahim and Charlie Nichols, SunCulture has created solar-powered water pumps that offer an affordable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional diesel and manual irrigation systems. These pumps not only boost agricultural productivity but also provide h0ouseholds with access to clean water for essential daily needs like drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
With its pay-as-you-grow financing model, SunCulture has helped over 45,000 smallholder farmers overcome financial barriers and adopt sustainable farming technologies. The $5 million investment from WaterEquity will be used to:
- Enhance Operations: Strengthen manufacturing and distribution capabilities to meet growing demand for solar-powered irrigation systems.
- Expand Market Reach: Extend services to more countries in Sub-Saharan Africa, including Uganda, Ivory Coast, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Togo.
- Improve Financial Accessibility: Develop more affordable financing models to ensure low-income farmers can access these solutions.
This investment aligns with WaterEquity’s goal of mobilizing capital for water and sanitation initiatives that increase climate resilience in emerging markets. With this support, SunCulture is well-positioned to scale its impact, tackling key issues like water scarcity and food security in Africa. The partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing sustainable development and empowering smallholder farmers through innovative technology
