The current explosion in next generation biological- and information technologies is disrupting agriculture business globally, opening transformative new opportunities for intensification and diversification in a sustainable manner. Africa is rich in agricultural growth opportunities, from underutilized land, to novel crop diversity, and a rich agricultural tradition. The intersection of these opportunities makes this a key moment for the continent to stimulate economic and social development through accelerated agricultural development. Africa lacks the capacity and data needed to unlock the opportunity that the era of digital and precision agriculture offers. These opportunities will also need to be connected with a fragmented agricultural community in a way that allows ownership, social development and resilience. At the same time, the intended intensification needs to be mindful of the value of the continents biodiversity and landscapes that provide vital ecosystem services, as well as the threats that it will face from climate change, pests and disease.
Artificial Intelligence in Farming