AI could negate the need for extension officers

Artificial intelligence (AI) could help narrow the gap in production between commercial and emerging farmers.

- Lindi Botha

This was according to Karidas Tshintsholo, CEO of agricultural services company Khula, who spoke at the International Fresh Produce Association's Fresh Solutions Day in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, held in late May.

DECREASE COSTS

He said that Al-driven apps could decrease costs for expert advice.

“Emerging farmers often don't get the quality of service that commercial farmers, who have experts on hand, do. Many emerging farmers can't afford consultants, and extension officers are either not available or take too long to get to the farm. Solutions are then also delayed. “But apps are already available that can replace extension officers, and are developing much faster than we ever thought possible. These apps can identify problems with crops and provide immediate solutions,” he explained.