AI IN PRECISION AGRICULTURE IN AFRICA: MYTH OR REALITY?

The dream of a modernized and high-performance African agriculture powered by technology has long seemed distant. Yet today Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the game. Far from being a myth, the integration of AI into African agriculture is an ongoing transformationthat holds huge promises for the continent.

According to Markets And Markets, the AI market in agriculture is expected to grow from $1.7 billion in 2023 to $4.7 billion in 2028,highlighting the central role of cutting-edge technologies in this sector.

What is Precision Agriculture and the Role of AI?

Precision agriculture involves observing, measuring, and taking targeted action on crop plots to optimize yields, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. AI plays a crucial role in this process through:

  • Sensors and drones that monitor soil moisture, nutrients, and plant health.
  • AI data processing to analyze the information collected and provide targeted recommendations, such as precisely adjusting fertilization in a given area.
  • Agricultural robotics that automate tasks such as weeding or harvesting, thereby reducing human effort and the use of chemicals. 

AI, a catalyst for Africa's green revolution

Africa faces unique agricultural challenges: climate change, limited access to water, and soil degradation. In 2023, for example, due to climate change North Africa's cereal production was about 10% below the five-year average. L’IA n’est pas une solution miracle, mais elle est un outil puissant pour surmonter ces obstacles.

  • Thanks to AI analysis of weather datafarmers can anticipate extreme weather events and adapt their crops accordingly.
  • Optimized management AI enables precise targeting of irrigation and fertilizer application, saving water and resources while reducing costs and pollution.
  • AI helps farmers detect diseases and pests earlyThanks to mobile apps, all it takes is a photo taken in the field to obtain a diagnosis and tailored advice.
  • Access to information:AI connects farmers to data on prices, practices, and demand, facilitating direct access to markets and increasing their incomes.

Concrete initiatives that turn myth into reality

Face aux problèmes spécifiques du continent, the solution Hewani Agronomy offre une digitalisation de la chaîne de valeur agricole. En combinant intelligence artificielle et hébergement sur Microsoft Azure, elle permet de collecter et analyser les données, d’accéder au financement et d’assurer la traçabilité. Résultat : la productivité augmente fortement et la diversification des revenus est facilitée, sans besoin d’augmenter les effectifs. 

Towards food and technological sovereignty

AI in African agriculture goes far beyond yields: it promotes food sovereignty, resilience, and local value creation. By focusing on training, support for startups, and appropriate policies, Africa can become a key player in smart and sustainable agriculture, perfectly aligned with its needs.

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