Unlocking the Power of Biochar: Innovations and Collaboration in African Agriculture

A recent gathering of over 50 passionate innovators, researchers, and entrepreneurs Coordinated by CBEN and ECO Restore explored the dynamic landscape of biochar technology across Africa. From the humble soil pit to industrial-scale pyrolysis plants, the meeting spotlighted a full spectrum of scalable biochar production methods and their transformative potential. Presentations ranged from simple, cost-effective techniques like soil pits and drum kilns—ideal for smallholder farmers—to cutting-edge vertical and rotary carbonizers capable of processing thousands of kilograms of biomass. Key metrics included biochar yields of 20–40 kg/hour from soil pits and an impressive 9,100 kg from just 250–300 kg of rice husks using a vertical system.

Beyond technology, the forum addressed the broader impact: enhancing soil fertility, managing invasive species, creating job opportunities, and generating carbon credits. One standout was Takachar’s field-tested, portable biomass upgrading units—designed for low-cost, on-site use—which have already demonstrated success in Kenya, India, the US, and Canada. Additionally, an advanced pyrolysis plant capable of processing 5 tons of biomass per hour and producing 10 MW of power was introduced as a solution to Kenya’s waste management challenges.

Further presentations brought in a different dimension—byproduct value. With his company's kilns, not only is biochar produced efficiently, but valuable outputs like wood vinegar can aid pest management in organic farming. He emphasized sustainability, particularly the cultivation of trees for future feedstock. A similar highlight a mobile kiln prototype capable of generating syngas, aimed at utilizing invasive species for biomass. This innovation could greatly expand biochar’s role in both carbon capture and clean energy generation.

A regional biochar project in Western Kenya was highlighted, aiming to expand adoption across three counties by developing specialized carbonizers that use rice husks and bagasse. The presentation emphasized the need for context-specific solutions and greater investment in local research and farmer training. Additionally, the session addressed the challenges of transporting bulky agricultural residues, presenting portable, on-site conversion systems as a solution to help farmers transform waste into biochar and other valuable products efficiently, while minimizing transportation costs and emissions.

Throughout the session, participants actively engaged through Mentimeter polls, Q&A segments, and fireside chats, emphasizing a shared commitment to climate action, practical innovation, and sustainable agriculture. The meeting concluded with action points focused on scaling these technologies, enhancing farmer training, and leveraging carbon markets to fund the next frontier of biochar development.

These interactive elements helped surface key concerns and knowledge gaps, which were further explored in fireside chats and breakout discussions. The diversity of perspectives—from entrepreneurs to researchers—added depth and relevance to the session's outcomes.

The session covered key topics including an introduction to biochar technologies, participant knowledge sharing, and a detailed overview of production methods ranging from simple soil pits and Kon Tiki kilns to advanced rotary and retort kilns.

Watch to details the Live virtual Workshop on our Youtube channel: https://youtu.be/4cI1SVCF89Q

https://youtu.be/4cI1SVCF89Q

Presenters discussed the benefits and challenges of each method, especially for small-scale farmers, including emissions, labor, and nutrient charging. Innovations like mobile kilns, wood vinegar byproducts, and portable biomass converters were also highlighted, alongside regional projects like Bio Kenya. Discussions emphasized the importance of carbon credit strategies, community engagement, and the need for local funding, training, and practical adoption of biochar solutions.

This session laid critical groundwork for the International Biochar Initiative Conference, setting a collaborative tone and surfacing actionable insights. It also served as a reminder that for biochar to scale meaningfully in Africa, we must balance innovation with accessibility, science with community wisdom, and vision with practical support.

By Erick O. Abala

Head Of Communications- CBEN