Precision Agriculture
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"The clock is ticking less than 5 years remain until 2030 deadline. Yet the world is yet far off from achieving the sustainable development goals. In Africa only 10 out of 144 measurable SDG targets are likely to be achieved by the end of the decade". We can’t build an economy, if people are hungry. Agriculture is more than just farming. It is about food security, jobs, our future. With 60% of world’s uncultivated arable lands, Africa has the opportunity to become a global agricultural powerhouse. Yet we continue to import $45B in food annually, and 278 millions of our people face hunger.
Economic growth can be driven by scaling up agri-business across value chains, support climate smart practices and finance critical infrastructure, including irrigation systems and storage facilities. By investing in agricultural productivity, we don’t just grow food, we grow opportunities, we strengthen communities, and we build resilience against climate shocks. This is a critical part of the foundation upon which we must build Africa’s economic transformation.
A common challenge the rural farmers face each year is economic uncertainty due to a variety of factors. One is frequent changes with crop and livestock yields. Other factors include unpredictable weather conditions and limited access to advanced farming techniques. Uncertainty like these can make difficult for farmers to make effective business decisions. AI solutions can assist farmers in achieving sustainable and reliable farming practices. Just as knowing the rules of the road can make you a better and more effective driver, understanding the basics of AI can help you to reach your destination safely and to avoid potential roadblocks. AI has the potential to greatly improve the quality of our work lives and streamline business operations.
Leveraging AI, farmers can make data-driven decisions, assess risks, spot market fraud, and develop strategies to increase their overall productivity.
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ALI Ibrahim Houssen,Djibouti,ACS This is wonder Ibrahim! Thank you for sharing. I totally agree with you with you that we need to leverage AI in agriculture and automate agricultural activities. In Nigeria, there are young people already automating and using technology to farm - Agrictech. We have young people going beyond using soil to plant to soilless agriculture (I have visited one of such farms; and it is a wonder). We have farms using automated irrigation system - we just need to scale and build the capacity of other people in the agriculture sector (who by the way are mostly elderly people). More so, taking Nigeria as a case study - we likewise need to start discussing how to leverage technology to have a warehouse that can preserve agricultural produce and strengthen supply chain. Wastage is another big issue in the agricultural sector in Africa. Importantly, beyond the agricultural activities, we need to discuss how to up the value chain game!
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ALI Ibrahim Houssen,Djibouti,ACS LIPEDE Omolola Mary,Nigeria,GPSPD This is a compelling and urgent call to action. You’re absolutely right, agriculture in Africa is more than just food production; it’s the bedrock of our development, a key to unlocking inclusive growth, and a frontline defense against poverty and climate vulnerability.
The statistics you shared are staggering, but they also highlight untapped potential. With 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, Africa should not be struggling with food insecurity. What’s holding us back is not land or labor, but limited access to infrastructure, finance, technology, and markets.
I particularly appreciate your emphasis on agriculture as part of a value chain from farm to fork and how AI can revolutionize decision making for smallholder farmers. When farmers have access to climate data, predictive analytics, and market insights, they’re no longer just producers they become empowered entrepreneurs.
But to truly scale these innovations, we need more than technology, we need policy support, digital literacy, inclusive financing, and localized solutions that center rural communities, especially women and youth.
Investing in agri-tech isn’t just about growing crops, it’s about growing futures, building resilience, and restoring dignity. Thank you for spotlighting this critical intersection of agriculture, technology, and sustainable development.
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ALI Ibrahim Houssen,Djibouti,ACS This is a timely discussion indeed, a decade later in the implementation of the SDGs, and food security is still a persistent issue across the continent with many areas facing famine and requiring substantial aid in food. Aside from leveraging technology to create resilience and boost agriculture productivity, it is also relevant to look at some practical ways to address food security in Africa. Take the example of post harvest losses that is witnessed across many African countries. A large percentage of food is lost due to poor transport infrastructure, inadequate storage and processing facilities or even limited value addition. To address these issues, governments being deliberate about improving transport infrastructure, providing common cold storage facilities, especially in areas where there is high production of perishable products. Even better creating industries in high agriculture production areas to preserve, add value and minimize post-harvest losses. I love what Burkina Faso is doing with their tomato production, the government has established industries to process tomato into tomato paste thus enhancing its shelf-life. Of course this industry will also promote the growth of other auxiliary industries, for example packaging and distribution companies. The economists will tell you, the multiplier effect will lead to job creation, sustainable production and by and large economic growth. This can be scaled and replicated in other products if government are willing to create that environment for companies to thrive. There is a whole conversation of how governments can be involved in this aspects, i will leave that discussion for another day....
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ALI Ibrahim Houssen,Djibouti,ACS Great insights and a critical reminder of agriculture’s role in Africa’s future.
But if only 10 out of 144 SDG targets are on track, we have to ask: were the goals realistic, given Africa’s financing gaps, infrastructure deficits, and limited change readiness?
It’s not just about ambition; it’s about capacity to implement. AI in agriculture is promising, but how do we ensure rural farmers can access and use these tools effectively?
Maybe the real question is: how do we build institutions, systems, and skills that are truly ready for change, so we can turn goals into grounded results before 2030?
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ABNER Martha,Namibia,DES-PS said in Precision Agriculture:
AI in agriculture is promising, but how do we ensure rural farmers can access and use these tools effectively?
We can ensure that rural farmers effectively access and utilize modern agricultural tools through targeted capacity building and hands-on training. By equipping them with the necessary knowledge and skills, we empower farmers to make informed decisions and improve productivity. Training programs tailored to their specific needs help bridge the gap between innovation and practical application.
Furthermore, ongoing support and mentorship can reinforce learning and encourage adoption of new techniques. Collaborating with local leaders and agricultural extension workers enhances the relevance and impact of these efforts. Ultimately, capacity building not only boosts farm efficiency but also strengthens rural livelihoods and food security.
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ALI Ibrahim Houssen,Djibouti,ACS Well articulated! The need for sustainable agricultural practices that address climate change and promote water efficiency cannot be overstated. As we strive to meet the SDGs, it is crucial to recognize that innovative approaches, such as smart irrigation farming systems and water-saving technologies, play a pivotal role in ensuring food security, conserving natural resources, and mitigating the impacts of climate change.
In this digital age, leveraging AI and cutting-edge technology is key to unlocking the full potential of these solutions. AI offers a huge opportunity to optimize irrigation schedules based on real-time weather data, soil moisture levels, plant needs, and improved crop yields. It offers a chance for evidence based decisions and that will help African communities adapt to changing environmental conditions. The interconnectedness of water management, agriculture, climate action, and technology highlights the importance of a holistic and systems-thinking approach in achieving the SDGs.
