Empowering horticultural companies on sustainability: an energy audit for the Tanzanian company Africado Ltd.

Empowering horticultural companies on sustainability: an energy audit for the Tanzanian company Africado Ltd.

In a world where environmental sustainability is becoming increasingly important, organizations are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint and operate more efficiently. One initiative is to conduct energy audits to ensure sustainability and efficiency by determining and documenting energy usage, providing estimates of energy savings from alternatives, and focusing on the use of alternative energy. Africado Ltd, one of the leading Tanzanian exporters specializing in fresh avocado exports, in partnership with COLEAD through the FFM Plus programme is currently implementing a comprehensive energy audit, aimed at optimizing energy efficiency and reducing operational costs. Although it’s impossible to arrive at a single figure, one can safely say that energy is a major input cost at packhouse level for the fresh fruits and vegetables industry. The audit will shed light on the costs incurred by the company and enable the company to explore alternative energy sources, such as solar power.

The assessment will provide insights into the kind of investments needed to transition towards a more sustainable and cost-effective energy solution for its operations particularly the packhouse. Moreover, a training program has been designed and developed for Africado to technically upskill its employees. This training will focus on energy efficiency strategies and competencies, enabling the company to implement sustainable practices and maximize energy savings in their operations. By conducting this energy audit and providing training for technical upskilling of its staff, Africado Ltd will not only reduce its environmental impact but also enhance its operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Through the adoption of renewable energy sources and the implementation of energy-efficient strategies, the company will be better equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world while contributing to a more sustainable future. In conclusion, the intervention of conducting an energy audit and providing training for its technical staff is a significant step towards ensuring sustainability and efficiency and underscores Africado’s commitment to sustainable operations and efficient resource utilization.

COLEAD through the Fit For Market Plus programme, is supporting partner beneficiaries amongst other topics to embrace renewable energy sources and implementing energy-saving strategies, to enable organizations to pave the way for a greener, more sustainable future.

This activity is supported by the Fit For Market Plus (FFM+) programme, implemented by COLEAD within the Framework of Development Cooperation between the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) and the European Union. This publication receives financial support from the European Union and the OACPS. The content of this publication is the sole responsibility of COLEAD and can in no way be taken to reflect the views of the European Union or the OACPS.