Bolivia Agroforestry Transformation
Partnering with Sicirec cooperative to support farmers transitioning from soil-depleting rice monocultures to sustainable cocoa agroforestry. Comprehensive support including trees, processing infrastructure, and equipment through community lending programs.
Projects
Attribute
20 drying tables + 20 fermentation boxes built.
8,000 cacao plants distributed.
Tools provided: 30 pruning saws, 30 pruning shears, 5 motorized saws.
Training & guaranteed fair, fixed prices through Sicirec
Projects
With our partner Sicirec, cocoa farmers are shifting from monocrops to diverse agroforestry systems that protect soil, biodiversity, and livelihoods.
Implementation Process
Before installation, Green Pastures relied on diesel generators to run milking machines and chillers—costly, unreliable, and carbon-intensive. With rising fuel costs and local climate pressures, the farm needed a renewable solution to support its dairy operations.
Site Audit
Performed waste and energy assessment; estimated 4–5 tons of daily cow dung.
System Design
Custom fixed-dome digester with gas storage, slurry outlet, and underground piping.
Construction
Took 6 weeks with local masonry labor and prefabricated dome components.
Installation & Integration
Biogas piped directly to kitchen, milking parlor, and backup generator.
Training & Handover
Staff trained on maintenance, gas flow control, and slurry reuse.
Photo Gallery
Measurable Impact
Impact Metrics
8,000 cocoa trees planted
21 drying facilities
20 fermentation boxes
Dozens of farmers trained & equipped
Challenges & Innovations
The high elevation of Eldoret meant cooler nights, which can slow digestion. We added thermal insulation and used slurry pre-warming to maintain optimal temperatures and microbial activity.
Conclusion
Biogas is more than a renewable energy solution—it’s a practical, cost-effective tool that empowers farmers to do more with what they already have.
From reducing fuel expenses to improving soil health and creating new revenue streams, the impact is clear. As more small farms adopt this technology, the agricultural landscape in Africa is being reshaped—cleaner, more resilient, and future-ready.
