Harnessing AI and Online Tools to Combat Crop and Livestock Losses in Africa

In the face of recurring crop and livestock losses due to pests and diseases, farmers in Africa are harnessing advanced technologies, artificial intelligence (AI), and online tools to combat these challenges. One standout example is PlantVillage (PV), a US-based nonprofit organization dedicated to improving farmers' lives and global agricultural productivity through knowledge and technology. PV has developed an AI app, called the AI PlantVillage app, which uses TensorFlow technology to identify disease outbreaks and pest symptoms on plant leaves. By leveraging their smartphones' cameras, farmers can quickly and effectively address crop health issues by scanning a crop leaf and instantly obtaining information about diseases or problems. PV’s app has already garnered over 10,000 users, who have reported an average increase of 40% in crop yields.

Lawrence Ombwayo, the associate director of PlantVillage Kenya, explained that the integration of AI into their programs was necessary because relying solely on extension officers in the field for surveillance was often insufficient. Agricultural extension services in Kenya and across Africa are under-resourced, which limited PV’s reach to farmers, hindering information dissemination and reducing surveillance of crop threats. By incorporating AI technology into their extension system, PV is empowering farmers with the knowledge and tools to make informed decisions that can significantly enhance their yields.

In addition to the AI app, PV has also implemented a mobile SMS system and online WhatsApp groups throughout Kenya, where farmers can interact in real-time with plant doctors, researchers, and extension officers. These digital platforms strengthen communication and provide farmers with access to advisory services and up-to-date information. Cynthia Mukhwana, the head of PV’s entomology department, explained that the WhatsApp groups serve as nationwide peer-to-peer support groups, allowing farmers to share observations on pest incidence, seek advice, and discuss logistics. The groups have become critical “early warning systems,” enabling farmers to discuss problems in the field and receive timely recommendations from plant doctors.

Using online chat groups is not limited to PV; researchers have found evidence of potential benefits from online chat groups among farmers and plant doctors. Similar to how group chats have revolutionized communication in human healthcare, these chat groups facilitate efficient communication and provide farmers with immediate access to specialized knowledge. Dannie Romney, a co-author of the study and senior global director for development communication and extension at CABI, explained how the concept of plant clinics, modeled after human healthcare systems, has been enhanced by digital tools. Chat groups have improved the effectiveness of plant clinics by creating networks of colleagues and experts and allowing for consultation and improved services. In areas where plant clinics and trained plant doctors exist, farmers have experienced a 13% increase in yields and incomes compared to areas without such services.

The success of PV’s app and the use of online chat groups underscore the potential of these technologies to revolutionize agricultural practices and improve farmer livelihoods. By harnessing AI, farmers can quickly diagnose and address crop health issues, leading to increased yields. The chat groups provide a platform for knowledge sharing, allowing farmers to access information, seek advice, and stay updated with new developments. These digital tools not only strengthen communication among farmers and experts but also serve as early warning systems for pest outbreaks and crop diseases.

While the use of digital tools and chat groups has shown significant benefits, it is important to acknowledge that not all farmers have access to smartphones or digital platforms. PV addresses this challenge by training participants to become “lead farmers” who can share information with their colleagues. These lead farmers also become PV agents, responsible for selling specific products and educating farmers about their usage and benefits. Moving forward, ensuring equal access to technology and digital tools remains a crucial obstacle to overcome in order to fully leverage the potential of these innovations in improving plant health and agricultural productivity.

The adoption of AI and online platforms by Kenyan farmers highlights the power of technology in revolutionizing agriculture and combatting crop diseases. Lawrence Ombwayo, associate director of PlantVillage Kenya, summed it up best when he said, “We integrated AI into our programs because relying solely on extension officers in the field for surveillance often isn’t sufficient.” With the help of AI, farmers can now address crop health issues more effectively, resulting in higher yields and improved livelihoods. Furthermore, the use of chat groups provides a platform for knowledge sharing and consultation, allowing farmers to stay updated with new information and seek advice from experts. However, it is crucial to ensure that all farmers have equal access to these digital tools to fully harness their potential. By overcoming these challenges, we can empower farmers and revolutionize agriculture in Africa and beyond.