Group items matching

in title, tags, annotations or url

Solar-powered drip irrigation enhances food security in the Sudano–Sahel documents a field research project which found that: "solar-powered drip irrigation significantly augments both household income and nutritional intake, particularly during the dry season, and is cost effective compared to alternative technologies" Over the decades, irrigation has been shown to greatly increase agricultural productivity. Drip irrigation is spreading rapidly in Africa, with significant benefits. "Drip irrigation delivers water (and fertilizer) directly to the roots of plants, thereby improving soil moisture conditions; in some studies, this has resulted in yield gains of up to 100%, water savings of up to 40–80%, and associated fertilizer, pesticide, and labor savings over conventional irrigation systems" The solar-powered systems, however, look to offer the potential for even better results. From the study on impacts of PVDI systems it was reported: "The women’s agricultural group members utilizing the PVDI systems became strong net producers in vegetables with extra income earned from sales, significantly increasing their purchases of staples, pulses, and protein during the dry season, and oil during the rainy season. Finally, survey respondents were asked how frequently they were unable to meet their household food needs. Based on the frequency and most recent incident, households were assigned a food insecurity score ranging from zero (no problems during the previous year) to one (perpetually unable to meet food needs). This score changed significantly for project beneficiaries, as they were 17% less likely to feel chronically food-insecure. In short, the PVDI systems had a remarkable effect on both year-round and seasonal food access."

Mr. Harris added, "As the market enters a new era that will be driven by audience connections with each other and with brands, we will be focused on personal technology and personal media. To that end, we have also entered into negotiations to strengthen our global capabilities in social media, video and global e-commerce." VGTel anticipates that the deals under discussion will be closed before the end of the second quarter.

In addition to purchasing MeCoupons, VGTel is continuing to look for opportunities to strengthen its mobile and social capabilities. The power of mobile to actively engage consumers via data, voice and sound is driving innovation industry-wide and creating opportunities for companies like VGTel to develop new and compelling offers that enhance connections between consumers, content and brands. Mr. Harris added, “Mobile, along with social, video and commerce will continue to be key areas of focus as we move forward. We will look to build, buy or grow these capabilities rapidly.” VGTel noted that the deal should be completed before the end of the second quarter.