Promising Prospects to Develop Precision Farming Using AI
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Loading... - Mandy Kappel
- 11 Oct 2024
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Algeria is making significant strides in enhancing its food security and boosting agricultural productivity through the adoption of precision farming technologies powered by artificial intelligence (AI). This innovative approach holds the potential to revolutionize agriculture by optimizing resource use and increasing yields.
Precision agriculture involves the collection and analysis of detailed data on crops, soil conditions, climate patterns, and environmental factors. AI processes this information to make informed decisions, either autonomously or with human intervention. According to Brahim Lekfal, an agricultural economist and AI trainer, AI-based precision agriculture has already shown success in Algeria, particularly in horticulture, where it has significantly increased vegetable yields.
One of the key benefits of AI in agriculture is its ability to prevent plant diseases and optimize irrigation. Remote irrigation systems, for instance, use intelligent programs to monitor soil temperature and notify farmers via a mobile app when irrigation is needed. This technology not only conserves water but also enhances crop health and productivity.
Among the promising initiatives in Algeria is the 'Sakai' project, developed by Algerian researchers Nasser Bouziani and Mourad Bouzit. These autonomous, solar-powered robots are designed for irrigation and deep root fertilization, ensuring efficient distribution of water and nutrients. The project has garnered international attention, including interest from NASA and Chinese research institutions, due to its potential to reduce tree mortality rates and promote sustainable farming practices.
The 'Sakai' system exemplifies the broader scope of precision agriculture, which extends beyond irrigation and fertilization to encompass comprehensive farming systems that optimize every stage of the agricultural process.
Algeria is also witnessing the emergence of modern farms equipped with AI-driven automation systems. The 'Souakri' Group, in partnership with a Turkish company, is set to launch a project focused on the production of cherry tomatoes for export. This initiative aims to implement a fully automated system that controls all stages of production, showcasing the potential of AI in transforming traditional farming practices.
Another notable success is 'Farm AI,' an Algerian startup that achieved second place in China's international Tech 4 Good competition in 2023. Their innovative drone-based system for detecting plant diseases highlights the cutting-edge solutions being developed in Algeria's precision agriculture sector.
Algeria's commitment to developing precision farming using AI presents promising prospects for the country's agricultural sector. By leveraging advanced technologies, Algeria aims to enhance food security, conserve resources, and increase agricultural productivity. As these initiatives continue to evolve, they hold the potential to position Algeria as a leader in sustainable and innovative farming practices.
