Kenyan Farmers Embrace Drone Technology For Precision Agriculture

— written by Sanju on Sept. 2, 2024, 10:51 a.m.

In Kenya, the use of drones in farming is rapidly gaining traction as farmers look for innovative ways to improve efficiency and crop yields. This shift towards drone technology marks a significant change in the agricultural landscape, particularly in regions like Naivasha and Kitui.

Farmers in Kenya are increasingly turning to drones for precision agriculture, a method that leverages technology to optimize farming practices. Drones help by providing detailed aerial imagery, which allows farmers to monitor crop health, assess field conditions, and apply inputs like water, fertilizers, and pesticides more accurately.

DJI Agras T50 drone surveilling a farm in Naivasha. Photo: Hover Mode Ltd. Source: UGC 

For example, Ken Mbuki, a farmer in Kitui, has embraced drone technology to manage his two-acre farm. He noted that using a drone reduced the time required for spraying insecticides from a full day's work by several laborers to just one hour, with greater accuracy and reduced costs.

The introduction of the DJI Agras T50 drone in Naivasha by Hover Mode Ltd. exemplifies how companies are promoting drone use among Kenyan farmers. This particular drone model allows for rapid coverage of large areas, significantly reducing the time and labor costs associated with traditional farming methods.

The DJI Agras T50 can cover up to 24 hectares in just one hour, a task that would take up to two weeks using manual labor. This technology not only increases productivity but also reduces the environmental impact by minimizing chemical runoff and ensuring precise application of inputs(Tuko.co.ke).

Source: Here

Despite these advancements, challenges remain, particularly in navigating the regulatory landscape. Farmers like Mbuki have faced difficulties in obtaining the necessary approvals from the Kenya Civil Aviation Authority (KCAA) to use drones for farming.

However, as the benefits of drone technology become more apparent, there is growing pressure on the government to streamline these processes to support the agricultural sector's modernization.

Overall, the adoption of drones in Kenyan agriculture represents a promising step towards more sustainable and efficient farming practices, with the potential to transform the sector and boost food production in the country.

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