At the University of California, researchers have developed an Artificial Intelligence tool capable of helping communities better manage poor harvests and prevent cases of malnutrition.
"Today, we have the ability to integrate a lot of data, use it and extract value from it ," says Samuel Mburu, Head of Digital Transformation and Excellence at AMREF Africa.
This research could impact the daily lives of thousands of families who depend on agriculture.
A glimmer of hope for families
On her farm in Kitui County, Kenya, Esther Mulu and her large family grow the raw materials they need for their food. Climate change, however, has altered their way of life. For the 69-year-old, her seven children, and 25 grandchildren, daily life has become more difficult. She is counting on this tool to improve her harvests in the future.
“Currently, we are facing a drought and we don’t know where to find food. Some time ago, we received food aid, but it no longer comes. We may have to tighten our belts because there are no more supplies. Now, we will have porridge in the morning and wait for the big meal in the evening or the one the next day. If you can do research and invent a technology to end hunger, personally, I would be very happy ,” she says.
The tool, tested in Kenya since February 2024, is beginning to bear fruit. The results show that the predictions can be accurate over a period of 3 to 6 months .
