For AI and blockchain to benefit African farmers, four key issues must be addressed
AI, sensors, and blockchain technologies are expanding in African agriculture, especially horticulture, offering improved decision-making and traceability. However, a recent study highlights that for smallholder farmers to benefit, four key issues must be addressed: ensuring data quality, defining data control and benefits, adapting technologies to farmers' contexts, and establishing clear governance rules. Combining AI's predictive power with blockchain's secure records could support sustainable production and fair participation.
Brève Publié le (Africa/Lagos, UTC+1)
Artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies are increasingly being applied in African agriculture, particularly in horticulture, where timely decisions are crucial due to the perishability of fruits and vegetables.
According to a study reviewed by researchers in horticultural science and sustainable food systems, these technologies can help farmers access vital information on weather, pests, markets, and farm management, as well as improve traceability along the supply chain.
However, the researchers stress that technology alone does not guarantee better farming outcomes. They identify four critical issues that must be addressed to ensure smallholder farmers benefit: the quality of data feeding AI systems, clear rules on who controls and benefits from farm data, adaptation of digital tools to farmers’ real conditions, and governance frameworks for agricultural information sharing.
Blockchain offers a secure, tamper-resistant way to record farm data, enhancing traceability from farm to market. AI can analyze images and data to predict problems and support decisions. The combination of these technologies holds promise for more sustainable horticultural production and fairer participation of smallholder farmers in digital agriculture.
Addressing these challenges is essential for digital agriculture to fulfill its potential in Africa, ensuring that technological advances translate into tangible benefits for farmers and the broader food system.