Humanitarian Agriculture
Smart Greenhouse Farming in Mahama Refugee Camp – Empowering Refugees Through Innovation
Plan International Rwanda
September 12, 2025
How tecGrw and Plan International Rwanda introduced smart greenhouse farming in Mahama Refugee Camp, training refugees in modern agriculture, producing 600kg of peppers, and building pathways to self-reliance.
The Challenge
Mahama Refugee Camp in Rwanda’s Eastern Province hosts tens of thousands of displaced individuals facing food insecurity, limited livelihoods, and dependence on aid. Traditional interventions often failed to provide long-term solutions.
Our Solution
In December 2024, TecGrw and Plan International Rwanda launched a 6×18m solar-powered smart greenhouse inside the camp. Features included:
- Automated drip irrigation and real-time sensors (NPK, moisture, pH, EC, CO₂, light)
- Integrated Nutrient & Pest Management (INM, IPM)
- Training for 22 refugees in crop management, irrigation, data-driven farming, and market linkage
- The first crop: high-value yellow peppers with strong nutrition and market potential.
Results & Impact
- Produced 600+ kg of yellow peppers in first cycle (March–July 2025)
- Enhanced nutrition for participating families
- New income streams through local sales and cooperative marketing
- 22 refugees trained in precision farming, irrigation, and business skills
- Created a replicable model for refugee empowerment and food security