Pathways to climate-resilient cocoa: is solar-powered Irrigation-as-a-Service a viable adaptation strategy?

This study examines smallholder farmers’ perceptions and the enabling conditions for adopting irrigation in Ghana’s cocoa sector, specifically focusing on solar-powered Irrigation-as-a-Service (IAS). Research was conducted in the Eastern, Ashanti, and Central regions using a qualitative design involving focus groups and interviews with farmers, cooperative leaders, and agricultural officials.

The analysis centers on six themes: climate impacts, irrigation technology perceptions, existing IAS models, the viability of solar-powered bundles, financing, and adoption barriers. Findings reveal that erratic rainfall, prolonged dry spells, and rising temperatures are severely disrupting production, leading to yield declines and income instability. Consequently, farmers increasingly view irrigation as a critical adaptation strategy.

However, access remains constrained by high capital costs, weak institutional support, and limited technical knowledge. While farmers show strong enthusiasm for solar-powered systems—valuing their low operating costs and alignment with clean energy—implementation is hindered by financing challenges, maintenance issues, and insecure land tenure.

Regional dynamics vary: Eastern Region farmers have more exposure to irrigation initiatives; Ashanti farmers demonstrate stronger interest in collective ownership through cooperatives; and in the Central Region, illegal mining and water pollution present unique environmental hurdles.

The study concludes that although IAS is currently unfamiliar within these communities, solar-powered models offer a viable pathway for climate-resilient agriculture. Success depends on policies that promote cooperative-based management, inclusive financing, and capacity-building. Strengthening multi-stakeholder partnerships between the government, private sector, and farmer organizations is essential to ensuring sustainable and equitable access to these technologies.