In Kenya, many farmers are increasingly turning to digital innovations to drive what experts are calling a modern Green Revolution. From drone apps that diagnose crop diseases and apps that provide real-time market prices.to satellite data for precision farming. this tech-driven transformation is empowering farmers to increase their yields, reduce losses, and connect directly to markets.
Kenyan farmers are increasingly adopting digital innovations for improved productivity, access to markets, and better farm management. These technologies include using sensors and drones for precision agriculture, mobile and SMS-based services for advice and record-keeping, and digital platforms that link farmers to financial services, inputs, and buyers. The widespread use of smartphones has enabled a growing number of digital solutions to assist farmers with everything from monitoring crops to accessing market prices and credit.
« We have a drone that can do crop health analysis and with that it can be able to tell you precisely areas of your farm that are not doing well and those that are doing well. »
BRIAN YOGO, Fahari Aviation – Kenya
In Kenya, as in many other African countries, farmers struggle with low agricultural productivity. It is up to five times lower than the global average.One of the reasons is limited agricultural services, such as extension services. These services offer technical advice and support and help farmers to access the inputs they need for production, like fertilisers and seeds. In Kenya, there is only one extension agent per 1,200 farmers. Farmers struggle to access high quality seeds and fertilisers.Many digital agriculture tools promise to resolve these issues.
« Like us, what we are doing is we have a number for SMS, when information comes, we have a mass release of SMS, we just release SMS once and reach all the farmers in real time. »
SAMUEL LUVEMBE, Chief Researcher, Sugar Research and Training Institute – Kenya
However, officials state that better integration of digital solutions with traditional farming practices is crucial but Field experts must support farmers in applying digital advice and provide hands-on guidance. Additionally, combining these solutions with local knowledge, cultural practices and market development will make them more effective and beneficial for farmers.
