"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.