Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning is a tech that is growing fast in Africa. Soon our agriculture and food production will depend heavily on AI + Machine Learning.
In Africa the application is mainly through drones. Drones are now irrigating our crops, controlling insects and pests, delivery agro inputs and information, forecasting weather, and the likes. Companies, local and foreign are busy telling our farmers and leaders about the advantages. Never are our farmers and leaders told about the disadvantages. Same as when green revolution was introduced in Africa in the 70s.
They are saying use of drones will increase yield per acre, enable farmers to access the market easily, reduce rural poverty, mitigate changes in climate, etc. Though there is an element of truth, the reality is there are many dangerous outcomes too. For example, once irrigation is done by drones, water and it’s sources will automatically fall in the custody of those who own drones. Our farmers are not rich or educated enough to own, operate and service these drones. Those who own drones will come as investors who will have to protect their investments. They enter into contracts that will guarantee them full access of free and adequate amounts of water. They will also control production. For example they may decide what type of crops to be cultivated, what type of seeds and inputs to be used, etc.
Another serious problem shall be the issue of human and environmental health. Aerial spraying has its challenges. It is always associated with “drifting” i.e. spraying none targeted areas or species. Water sources such as rivers, dams and wells can be polluted through aerial spraying. In local communities drones can cause serious damage to people and their environment.
Another problem that can occur is expansion of farming into protected areas or areas that were not used for crop production. This is because many areas were left fallow because it wasn’t possible to establish irrigation systems. These “new” areas will be grabbed by local rich people and/or MNCs. More deforestation will occur and conflicts with local farmers will increase. Monoculture production system will also be boosted to the detriment of biodiversity.
It’s the responsibility of civil societies to inform local farmers and policy makers about these challenges so that together they can find suitable solutions. One of the first step can be the development of a national guideline on use of AI/Drones in agriculture.
CSOs must also develop community awareness raising projects in order to develop knowledge and skills of African farmers
Otherwise, African agriculture will suffer the same it suffered under the Green Revolution.
Dr. Yahya Msangi
+22891816529 (WhatsApp)
+255618880548
Email: togowelfare@gmail.com
welfare25tanzania@gmail.com