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  • Democracy advancements of the next liberation of Kenya and South Africa

    South Africa and Kenya hosted a high level reflection roundtable on their 30 years struggle for Democracy.

    The particular discussion involving Operation Linda Ugatuzi in collaboration with KENYA BORA TUITAKAYO majored on lessons for constitution making process with reference to the two respective countries and also added their voices to the conversation taking place in Kenya, especially on the issue of the financial bill.

    Speaking during the forum, The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) Professor Moeletsi Mbeki noted their guaranteed role in advancing a well governed, peaceful and economically sustainable and globally engaged Africa.

    He pointed out that some of the challenges that the struggle for Democracy caused to South Africa include poor electricity, collapse of railway, 42% unemployment, 27% of children stunted because of malnutrition, 70 murders a day among other challenges.

    Dr. Mbeki added that African middle class level has grown and due to this, over the past few years, South Africa has always been ruled by the consumption driven class, which is the middle class.

    “Due to the middle class ruling, a lot has changed in South Africa comprising of abolished rule of the white, introduction of universal coverage, political power being herited by a new elite, “ added Dr. Mbeki.

    He also noted that in order for South Africa to have stable elections, they need to modernize their economy, create a new entrepreneual class that is conversant with the digital technology and also draw up urbanization plans.

    Also speaking at the event, Operation Linda Ugatuzi leader Professor Fred Ogola on the issue of the financial bill noted that it is the most discussed bill ever in Kenya.

    “This bill has seen submissions from so many people and also so many memoranda have been done, for Operation Linda Ugatuzi, Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and Association of Manufactures have all submitted their memoranda on the same,” said Ogola.

    He further noted that if the bill is passed, it will only increase the cost of living, as everything will go up.

    “Overtaxing Kenyans at a time when unemployment is very low and inflation is very high simply means that Kenyans who are poor are going to be made poorer, the middle class will shrink and the only people who will enjoy are those in the government who have those salaries and are enjoying the benefits of being in the government,” added Ogolla.

  • A A of Kenya launches The Best Young Driver Contest in Kenya to promote road safety among the youth

    A A of Kenya launches The Best Young Driver Contest in Kenya to promote road safety among the youth

    The Automobile Association of Kenya (AA Kenya), in collaboration with the Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), is proud to announce the launch of The Best Young Driver Contest in Kenya.

    This contest aims to raise awareness of road safety among young drivers and highlight their potential to drive responsibly and set a positive example for their peers and adults.

    The contest, which will be held in three phases, is designed for young drivers between the ages of 18 and 26. It will test participants’ skills that are essential to becoming a good driver behind the wheel and in real-life situations. Participants will be tested in areas such as first aid, traffic rules, road safety, and vehicle handling.

    “The top two winners of The Best Young Driver Contest in Kenya will earn the opportunity to represent Kenya in the prestigious International Best Young Driver Contest, scheduled to take place in Vienna, Austria in October 2023. This international event brings together young drivers from various countries to showcase their safe driving skills and knowledge,” AA Kenya CEO Mr. Francis Theuri said.

    The International Best Young Driver Contest serves as an initiative to promote road safety among young drivers and emphasize the importance of responsible driving practices. With the alarming global burden of road accidents, resulting in the loss of at least 4,000 lives annually in Kenya, and causing injuries to more, it is crucial to inspire young drivers to develop a positive road safety
    culture.

    In Kenya, children and youth account for a significant proportion of road traffic-related fatalities.

    The Best Young Driver Contest aims to instil road safety awareness among all drivers, with a specific focus on young drivers, who often face a higher risk on the roads.

    “This competition is not a sporting event but an opportunity for drivers to demonstrate their driving skills in a circuit that encompasses various forms of driving conditions, including cornering, muddy roads, tarmac, manoeuvring hurdles, reversing vehicles in diverse road conditions, and driving on off-road terrain.

    AA Kenya will provide the vehicles for use in this exercise; however,
    contestants must possess valid driving licenses and pass theory tests before being allowed to participate.,” Mr. Theuri explained.

    The International Best Young Driver Contest has gained popularity among FIA Region I Members since its inception in 2017. It has proven to be a successful platform for connecting with younger audiences and inspiring safer driving habits among young people.

    AA Kenya and FIA urge all eligible young drivers in Kenya to seize this unique opportunity to showcase their skills and contribute to the promotion of road safety. Together, we can make a difference and create a safer future for all road users.

  • Forces of Change in the Creative industries, going beyond tech

    Forces of Change in the Creative industries, going beyond tech

    Canon’s new report, The Future of Filmmaking, notes four shifts in the industry that go beyond tech. Amine Djouahra, B2C BU Director, Canon Central & North Africa explores these four fundamental forces driving change in the industry.

    As we are nearing the end of the first half of 2023, we have all become more comfortable with change and disruption. Whether it is the pandemic, environmental factors, unstable global economic conditions, or tech evolution, we have learned to bounce back quickly. One industry that has had to be particularly agile during the past few years is the filmmaking industry.

    Canon’s new report (written in conjunction with The Future Laboratory) – The Future of Filmmaking, reveals the industry’s efforts to be a catalyst of change that inspires the creative industry to transform its narrative and to shine its spotlight on topics that will be significant in shaping the future of our world, and that of the African continent.

    Interestingly, the report sheds light on the human landscape and its power to create, cultivate, and drive change. The power of people ultimately makes things happen and pushes us toward progress and advancement in any industry. The report highlights four crucial aspects that may be driven by tech but not necessarily led by tech. In my view, these are significant factors directly proportional to the content creation and filmmaking industries and will undoubtedly shape the future of these industries.

    Rise of the Creative Class

    According to the UNESCO report, global cultural and creative industries (CCIs) are estimated to generate about $2.25 trillion annually, which accounts for 3% of the global GDP and employment of around 30 million people worldwide. It is fascinating to see the rise of this creator economy, which the report identifies as the “New Creative Class”. As we witnessed an unprecedented boom in digitalization over the last 10 years, this creative class sprang into action using technologies to deliver a fresh and novel take on content creation.

    If we lens in on the African continent, which is closer to home and more interesting to me, we see some remarkable trends in the creative economy. In Nigeria, as this report shows, the sector employs 4.2 million people and is expected to employ a further 2.7 million by 2025, an increase of more than 50% in the next two years.

    Despite the significant contribution made by the new creative class toward societal and economic progress, there still seems to be a gap in recognition compared to other industries. The emerging community of content creators is striving to achieve fair working conditions, equitable payment models, and new standards in the industry that reflect their value and contributions. This is a positive development for the creative sector in its rightful plea to be recognized and treated fairly compared to other industries.

    Stay Local

    The explosion of digital technologies may have given us the power to do anything from anywhere, but like all things, too much of anything is not always good and has its own consequences. With the plethora of content choices that suddenly became available for audiences consumers worldwide, an interesting trend emerged. People slowly started taking their eyes off the global stage and shifted their gaze towards local and homemade content that told stories of their land and their people.

    Given our natural desire as humans to find meaning, connectivity, and relatability, the narrative of authentic stories led independent storytellers, documentary-makers, content creators, and filmmakers to explore topics that local people resonate with. So, it’s no surprise that global streaming giants like Netflix and Disney are investing in Africa to tap the unexplored potential and talent. The report encapsulates the essence of the ‘Stay global, go local’ movement and asserts that media organizations and creative firms will progressively be compelled to shift sight closer to home when it comes to entertainment and content production.

    Conscious Consumption

    The current climate crisis affects us all, no matter which industry or walk of life we come from. The severity of climate change needs to be taken seriously globally, and genuine efforts must be made for scaled initiatives to reduce our carbon footprints. The streaming industry is no exception to this; the carbon impact of the industry drastically needs to be reduced by adopting a more sustainable approach towards this issue.

    The report underpins the significance of consumer demand as a key driver toward adopting sustainable practices and better industry standards. With people gaining more awareness about the environmental impact of their consumption choices, they are likely to demand pro-environmental practices, thus compelling the industry to adopt a pro-active approach towards sustainability.

    Inclusive Innovation

    The Future of Filmmaking report highlights the positive development of inclusivity and diversity. It emphasizes that the new creative class is at the forefront of inclusivity and is not afraid to challenge the already-established broadcasters. This new generation of creators identifies technology to harness change and propel social progress. Decentralization will be a key trend touching every area of the industry, from financing to licensing and distribution and more, creating new opportunities for the underrepresented creators and bringing them closer to their fans.

    Continuing the Legacy of Storytelling

    These trends are a wake-up call to many in the industry to pay attention to the changing needs of people and to evolve with them. However, we must always return to the basics and remember the importance of telling stories. While these trends affect the industry by and large, the shifts create more freedom for storytellers to come forth and tell their stories in unique and inspiring ways, enabling them to create content that is responsive to the tastes, locations, and ethics of their audiences in a way that has never been possible before.

    All in all, the report tells me that this is an exciting time to be a creator, with the industry opening its doors to new opportunities that reflect change, growth, development, and progress.

    The Future of Filmmaking is a Canon x The Future Laboratory report and is available to read in full on The Future Laboratory website.

  • All you need to know about Samsung care+

    All you need to know about Samsung care+

    Samsung Care+ is a service plan that offers accidental screen damage protection for your Galaxy device. This plan aims to provide quick and easy repairs to give consumers peace of mind for a period of 12 months. The Samsung Care+ plan is designed to enhance your connected life wherever you are.

    Below is everything you need to know about Samsung Care+ for Samsung smartphones in Kenya.

    • How do I register for Samsung Care+?

    Samsung Care+ can be accessed via https://www.samsungcareplus.com/afr#/.

    To register you will input the IMEI number of the device, the purchase date and the country you are in. You will receive a message and email confirming that you are registered.

    • When Can I Register for Samsung Care+?

    The Samsung Care+ registration should happen immediately when you purchase your phone. However, you can still register within 30 days of phone activation.

    • What does it cost me to register?

    Registration for Samsung Care+ is free.

    • What is the validity period for Samsung Care+?

    Samsung Care+ is valid for 12 months from the device activation date. This simply means from the day that you switch on the device for the first time.

    • What does Samsung Care+ cover?

    Samsung Care+ covers accidental screen damage to your Galaxy device caused by unexpected and unintentional external events (e.g. device drop) that arise during your normal daily usage of your device.

    How do I redeem Samsung Care+?

    In the case of any accidental damage to your Galaxy device screen visit the nearest Samsung Experience Store or Samsung Authorized Service Center with your damaged device. After handing in your damaged device to the attendant, they will check your IMEI number to confirm that your device is registered under Samsung Care+ and will then request you to fill in a form with your details. They will then be advised on the reasonable repair fee required.

    How much does the repair fee cost?

    The repair fee is payable after your qualifying claim. This simply means we confirm if the device was registered on Samsung Care+ and if it is still within the one-year period covered. The value of the repair fee is indicated on the Samsung website which can be accessed using the following link https://www.samsung.com/africa_en/offer/samsung-care-plus/.

    How long do I have to pay the repair fee?

    You must immediately pay the repair fee when you have checked in your device with the Samsung Service Centre, otherwise the center cannot proceed with the repairs.

    • How long does it take until I receive my device is fixed?

    The repair should take 3 working days depending on part availability and other factors.

    • Is the Samsung Care+ registered in another country valid in Kenya?

    Samsung Care+ is available in four Eastern African countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda & Ethiopia) for all Samsung smartphones except the Samsung Galaxy A04 & A03 models.  Samsung care+ can only be redeemed in the country the device was purchased in.

    • How many repairs are covered under Samsung Care+?

    For Samsung Care+ claims, you only have up to a maximum of 1 incident over a period of 12 months.

    • What happens if you damage both the inner foldable screen and front screen on the Samsung Z Foldable Care+ plan?

    You will only be entitled to an inner foldable screen repair or a front screen repair in exchange for the relevant repair fee. You will not be entitled to both an inner foldable screen and a front screen repair.

    • What is the length of coverage for my smartphone?

    Samsung Care+ covers the above damages for a period of 12 months. However, we do have a 24-month warranty that covers manufacturers’ faults.

    • When does coverage begin?

    Your coverage begins immediately after purchase and you registering your new Galaxy device on the Samsung Care+ portal.

    • What Smartphones are covered under Samsung Care+

    In Kenya, Samsung Care+ covers the following Samsung smartphones; Galaxy S21FE, S20 FE, Note20, Note20 Ultra, S21, S21 +, S21 Ultra, A13, A23, A33, A53, A73, A32, A52, A72, A22, A14, A24, A34, A54, S22, S22+, S22 Ultra, S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, Z Fold 3, Z Flip 3, Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4

    • Who Can I call if I have a question that concerns Samsung Care+?

    Samsung has a toll-free number you can call regarding any smartphone issues including Samsung Care+. The number is 0800 545 545.

  • SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS celebrates world environmental day by introducing e-waste program

    SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS celebrates world environmental day by introducing e-waste program

    Samsung Electronics East Africa Ltd (Samsung) has partnered with leading home appliances store Housewife’s Paradise to collect e–waste for recycling as part of a joint effort on environmental conservation. The collection of e-waste will begin in Nairobi and then be scaled up to the rest of the country by the end of the year. This comes as the world marks the United Nations World Environment Day that seeks to encourage worldwide awareness and action to protect the environment.

    Under the e-waste management program, Housewife’s Paradise will collect Samsung brand-only e-waste at a customer’s preferred time and date via the mobile number 0110730305. Housewife’s Paradise will pick up the e-waste in different areas in Nairobi which will then be delivered to WEEE Centre the official Samsung recycling partner in Kenya. The e-waste will then be discarded as per set global standards.

    While celebrating World Environmental Day, Samsung is prompting customers to dispose of their e-waste properly through the right channels in order to safeguard our environment for future generations.

     “We have been dedicated to responsible e-waste management for the last few years and we now want to scale it up to ensure that we minimize any negative environmental impact of our products. This includes taking responsibility for the end-of-life phase of our products to prevent environmental harm. Our e-waste program and recycling program are an important part of this commitment,” said the Head of Service Division at Samsung, Mr. Ronald Mitei.

    The Government of Kenya passed the Sustainable Waste Management Act,2022 that establishes the legal framework for sustainable waste management. This would ideally require electronics manufacturing companies operating in Kenya to take responsibility for the pollution their products cause during their entire product life cycle. According to the global e-waste monitor report of 2020, 53.6 million metric tonnes of e-waste were produced each year. If left unchecked, this could double to 120 million tonnes by 2050. Globally, only 17.4 percent of e-waste is managed appropriately. Kenya’s annual electronic waste generation grew from 3,000 metric tonnes in 2012 to 51,000 metric tonnes in 2021.

    “Samsung is strongly committed to proper e-waste disposal and we believe in safeguarding our environment through responsible disposal and recycling of electronic waste, transforming it from being hazardous to beneficial. Working together with our partners, we can ensure that waste is not just discarded, but transformed into reusable materials. This collaboration embodies our shared dedication to sustainable practices, conservation, and the health of our planet,” further added Mr. Ronald Mitei.

    Electronic waste is a growing worldwide issue as more and more devices are produced, used, and discarded. Disposing of e-waste properly is important because it often contains hazardous materials that can be harmful to the environment and to human health if not managed correctly.

    “As a responsible home appliance retailer, we understand the importance of proper e-waste disposal. It’s not just about selling new appliances; it is also about ensuring that the old ones are retired in a way that is safe for our environment. That is why we are devoted to providing our customers with easy access to responsible recycling options, and encouraging the sustainable disposal of electronic products,” said the Managing Director of Housewife’s Paradise, Mr. Zul Jamal.

    In September 2022, Samsung Electronics announced its global environmental strategy, a comprehensive effort to join global endeavors in tackling climate change. This environmental commitment encompasses an enterprise-wide application to enhance resource circularity throughout the entire product lifecycle, from raw material sourcing to recycling and disposal. The plan also details investments in new technologies to reduce emissions from processed gases as well as to reduce power consumption in consumer products.

  • LG Commits to Convert All Its Business Sites To 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy By 2050

    LG Commits to Convert All Its Business Sites To 100 Per Cent Renewable Energy By 2050

    ·         Accelerating the Journey toward Carbon Neutrality, Company Continues Efforts to Realize the ESG Vision of a ‘Better Life for All”. Joins RE100 (Renewable Energy 100), a global initiative advocating for businesses to convert to 100 per cent renewable energy for all their electricity requirements.

    ·         Company is set to build a solar power station equivalent to the size of three soccer fields on the roof of the existing integrated production building at LG Smart Park in Changwon, South Korea by 2025.

    LG Electronics has finalized plans to convert all its business sites to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2050.

    This, even as the company joined RE100 (Renewable Energy 100), a global initiative advocating for businesses to convert to 100 per cent renewable energy for all their electricity requirements.

    Commenting on the move, the chief strategy officer at LG Electronics Lee Sam-soo said the decision to become a RE100 member is yet another example of its strong commitment to sustainability and to fulfilling its responsibilities as a global corporate citizen.

    “LG remains fully committed to realizing its ESG vision of creating a Better Life for All. Through ongoing efforts and innovation, LG is well on its way to achieving its goals of converting to 100 per cent renewable energy and becoming a carbon-neutral business,” said Lee Sam-soo.

    To reach the 100 per cent renewable energy goal by 2050, LG will gradually increase its usage of electricity from renewable sources, such as solar and wind power to 60 per cent by 2030 and 90 per cent by 2040, arriving at its target of 100 per cent by 2050.

    Along with expanding the generation and usage of renewable energy via the installation of high-efficiency solar panels at LG offices and manufacturing facilities, the company will be implementing a variety of additional measures, such as acquiring renewable energy certificates (RECs), signing renewable energy power purchase agreements (PPAs) and, in South Korea, paying Korea Electric Power Corporation’s (KEPCO) green premium.

    As part of its ongoing efforts in this area, last year, LG signed a direct PPA with GS EPS, a Korean power generation company, to build a solar power station equivalent to the size of three soccer fields on the roof of the existing integrated production building at LG Smart Park in Changwon, South Korea by 2025.

    Some solar panels have already been installed and have generated power for select buildings since last December. Around the world, the company has installed solar panels on rooftops of several of its offices, including the LG Sciencepark R&D complex in Seoul, South Korea; the North American Headquarters campus in New Jersey, USA; LG India’s office building in Greater Noida, India; and the Rayong home appliance factory in Thailand.

    LG had already established plans to speed up its transition to renewable energy and accelerate its journey toward carbon neutrality. By converting to renewable energy, the company is also reducing indirect carbon (scope 2) emissions generated while using power. In 2019, LG announced its Zero Carbon 2030 pledge to reach net-zero (direct and indirect) carbon dioxide emissions (scope 1 and 2) by the year 2030.

  • KBL launches new Smirnoff variant in the 7th edition of Unleash your edge Fiesta

    KBL launches new Smirnoff variant in the 7th edition of Unleash your edge Fiesta

    Kenya Breweries Limited (KBL) has officially launched a new Smirnoff variant in the 7th edition of Unleash your Edge Fiesta held at Impala grounds. 

    The new variant termed ‘Smirnoff pineapple punch’ under EABL’s vast portfolio combines the smooth taste of Smirnoff vodka with a refreshing blend of pineapple and ginger beer flavors. The result is a deliciously fruity and crisp drink that’s perfect for any occasion with friends and family. 

    This comes in two formats which is a 330ml can and 300ml bottle and has an Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of 5.5%. This will be sold in bars and restaurants at a recommended retail price (RRP) of KES 200/- for the can while the bottle format will be going for KES 180/-.

    Entertaining revelers at this weekend’s Fiesta were some of Kenyans top acts such as Khalighraph Jones, Fena Gitu, Grauchi, DJ Karowski, MC Gogo and DJ Roq, Fathermoh, Pierra Makena, Ssaru, DJ Linsey, DJ Tophaz, Reedah Yvonne and Sir M

    Speaking at the launch event, KBL Managing Director Mr. Mark Ocitti said the creative idea is to let consumers discover the alternative to the ordinary by creating flavour drinking experiences that are effortless, yet mischievous and distinctive.

    “As a consumer-based business, we take time to study the market and identify our consumer needs and how to satisfy them. Our innovations department took a deep dive into what our consumers needed and noted a pattern in which they wanted a new, refreshing and exciting brand. We are constantly investing and renovating our brands to stay on par with dynamic consumer trends,” said Mr. Ocitti.

    “This will be our seventh edition of the Unleash Your edge fiesta”, a campaign we introduced last year that is all about good vibes and good times with friends. Since our first event, our aim was to bring to life adventures that are beyond the usual, by creating flavourful experiences that are effortless yet mischievous,” he added.

    On the other hand, KBL’s Innovations Commercialization Manager Lillian Ndirangu noted that the new variant is for consumers who are looking for exciting and unique experiences, who want to express themselves in new ways and spaces creatively with flavorful drinks (Sweet and fruity) at affordable prices. Smirnoff Pineapple Punch is best enjoyed when crispy cold to bring out the flavours in the drink.

    “The target consumer for Smirnoff Pineapple punch is your 25 to 34 years old consumer who are trendsetters, and fun lovers. Their key passion points for these consumers are Music, are into the latest trends, Art and Technology on content on social media whenever they have the bundles, key connection point for this consumer is Facebook where they tend to enjoy trendy, entertaining & humorous content,” the Innovations Commercialization Manager added.

    KBL has emphasized innovation as one of the company’s key growth pillars, with the company’s profit growth in the financial year ending June 2022 being partially attributed to investment behind brands and innovation in the route to market in response to consumer behaviour shifts.

  • Huawei roots for affordable spectrum to deepen home internet acces

    Huawei roots for affordable spectrum to deepen home internet acces

    Huawei Technologies has called for a collective adoption of the 2.6 GHz as the dedicated spectrum with the most cost-effective 4G Fixed Wireless Access for home broadband service to scale up the current low penetration rate.

    Currently, only 9.8 million Kenyans (9 percent), mostly living in urban and semi-urban areas have access to broadband internet. Thirty eight percent have low-speed dial-up internet, while up to 22 million people still have no access to internet connectivity.

    Addressing delegates at the just concluded Annual Africa Spectrum Roundtable in Maputo, Mozambique, Yao Hongjie, Vice President of Huawei Sub-Saharan Africa ICT Solutions said that a number of initiatives were required to drive up the rate of home internet penetration.

    “These include full allocation of the entire Sub-3Ghz for affordable and universal mobile broadband towards closing the digital gap and fueling the growth of our digital future. It also involves full utilization of 2.3Ghz and 2.6Ghz bands for further mobile broadband improvement,” he noted.

    The meeting agreed that for home internet access to achieve a formidable leap, it will be crucial for the country to adopt defragmentation practices with win-win cooperation between internet service providers, regional and large mobile network operators.

    In addition, the ramp up requires overall development of 4G/5G fixed wireless access in order to uplift overall national broadband penetration rates and tax incentives and rebates, affordability considerations for both devices and services, digital literacy for rural and underserved areas.

    The event brought together regulators, operators and spectrum industry leaders from all over Africa to discuss the key spectrum opportunities and challenges for lobbying investment and improving mobile service levels.

    Mr. Yang outlined the unique potentials of Sub-3GHz to meet the realistic demand in the Africa region, noted with the experience of strong demand growth to improve the last-mile broadband infrastructure, the Sub-3GHz spectrum’s full utilization will be the best way forward.

    Spectrum is a scarce resource and efficient use of spectrum is one of the key objectives of spectrum management, yet there is clear evidence that the volume of data flowing over mobile networks is growing rapidly and is being accelerated by the popularity of smart phones and the growth in music and video downloads, the 2.6 GHz band will allow operators to address rapidly increasing traffic volumes in an efficient and harmonized way.

    The 2.6 GHz spectrum is the ideal complement to the 700 MHz spectrum, also known as ‘digital dividend’, and will enable the most cost-effective nationwide coverage of Mobile Broadband across both rural and urban environments.

  • Agtech: A Pivotal Force Driving Climate Change Action in Agriculture

    Agtech: A Pivotal Force Driving Climate Change Action in Agriculture

    The agricultural sector is a significant contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, responsible for an estimated 19-29% of these emissions according to the World Bank. This figure climbs even higher to 40% when we consider the emissions produced throughout the entire agricultural value chain, encompassing transportation, storage, and processing.

    With the global population expected to double by 2050 and consequently increase demand for food, emissions from agriculture are expected to increase unless action is taken to stem the harm to the environment.

    The solution lies in embracing agricultural technology (Agtech) to revolutionise agricultural practices, boost yields, increase farmer incomes, and promote sustainability. Technologies such as climate-smart agriculture, precision farming, soil carbon sequestration, and digital tools for value chain optimisation all aim at raising the production per square inch of agricultural land while recovering more from loss and damage.

    Agtech offers numerous tools and techniques for sustainable crop and livestock management, including the use of climate-resilient seeds, and improved breeding techniques that result in higher yields with reduced land, water, and chemical inputs. By increasing the productivity of land, agtech helps preserve natural ecosystems, reduces deforestation, and prevents the conversion of additional land for agriculture, thus mitigating greenhouse gas emissions.

    Soil health technologies are also important for transforming the output of agricultural land for increased food production and soil sequestration. Soil mapping and monitoring enable farmers to apply the appropriate nutrients in the right quantities leading to enhanced crop productivity and increasing the capacity to sequester carbon from the atmosphere. Additionally, through regenerative agricultural practices like cover cropping, reduced tillage, and agroforestry, agtech actively contributes to carbon sequestration.

    As well, more climate goals are linked to climate-smart agriculture, which leverages digital technologies for weather forecasting and data-driven analytics to provide farmers with real-time information on rain patterns, crop diseases, and market conditions. As a result, farmers are equipped to make climate-smart decisions, such as adjusting planting schedules, selecting suitable crop varieties, and adopting climate-resilient farming techniques. The AgriBot co-developed by AGRA and Microsoft is one such agtech, designed to optimise resource utilisation and minimise climate-related risks, ultimately helping farmers adapt to changing climatic conditions. The AgriBot provides valuable agricultural information to farmers through SMS and social media platforms like WhatsApp and Telegram. Deployed in two Kenyan counties since 2020, the Bot today serves 47,470 farmers with vital information on good agronomic practices, pest management, weather prediction, and insurance as well as linkages to county approved agrodealers and certified seed varieties. The same is being scaled to three other counties in Kenya and three countries of Nigeria, Malawi and Uganda through the partnership of AGRA and IFC.

    Precision farming involves the application of data collected using drones and sensors to drive precision irrigation and nutrient management. This minimises wastage of resources, prevents pollution from excess chemicals, and decreases the overall carbon footprint of agricultural operations. CropIn’s Smartfarm is a good example of farm monitoring and management solutions that utilise advanced analytics to help farmers geotag their land, digitise their records, and optimise their use of water, fertilisers, and pesticides. The tool also supports the real-time monitoring of crop performance. The technology has already digitalised 10,626 village-based advisors in six countries – Burkina Faso, Mali, Ghana, Nigeria, Mozambique, and Tanzania – where it supports delivery of inputs, services and information to 2.7 million farmers on nearly 600 million hectares of land. Overall, the World Economic Forum estimates that the adoption of precision agriculture on 15-25% of farms could boost global yield by 10-15% by 2030. It would also lead to a 10% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and a 20% decrease in water usage.

    The optimisation of agricultural value chains is critical in advancing food and nutrition sufficiency without increasing the size of land under cultivation. Technologies like blockchain and the Internet of Things (IoT) enable better tracking, traceability, and management of agricultural products throughout the value chain. This reduces post-harvest losses, optimises transportation routes, and ensures timely delivery, thereby lowering energy consumption and emissions.

    A good example is the deployment of IBM technology in Rwanda that combines satellite data with machine learning to identify where maize is grown and the forecasted yield. Farmer organisations can also use the technology to identify areas of low yields and provide timely output-enhancing measures such as the adequate supply of fertilisers.

    Yet, even with the transformative nature of the technologies, many remain beyond the reach of a vast majority of smallholder farmers in Africa due to the high costs of acquisition and lack of infrastructure to support such solutions.  In the short-term, stakeholders can ensure an equitable and inclusive transition through investments in digital infrastructure and connectivity driven by a collaborative approach for developing a conducive policy environment, and the advancement of regional integration. Sustained investments in agricultural research and development also remain crucial, as has been shown in developed countries, which increased their adoption of agtech by committing 3.25% of their GDP compared to only 0.52% in developing countries. The increasing disparity in R&D expenditure exacerbates the gap in productivity, thereby rendering the poorest countries incapable of rapid progress.

    The writer is a Senior Programme Office, AGRA

  • Free language app helps 350,000 people develop literacy skills in the Horn of Africa

    Free language app helps 350,000 people develop literacy skills in the Horn of Africa

    • Developed by Sahamiye Foundation, Daariz is a free language app helping people in the Horn of Africa to learn essential reading, writing and comprehension skills
    • The app has reached 350,000 users and reduced the time it takes to become literate in mother tongue from 450 to 50 hours

    Over 350,000 children and adults across the Horn of Africa (Somaliland, Somalia, Ethiopia, Djibouti and Kenya) are learning to read and write in Somali with a free language app, Daariz. Launched in 2021, Daariz aims to address the region’s low literacy rates by making language skills more accessible and inclusive for learners of all ages.

    Daariz was developed by the Sahamiye Foundation, a charity working to improve education in the Horn of Africa and empower all people with lifelong literacy skills.

    The Horn of Africa currently faces a multitude of challenges, from an absence of rural schools to recurring droughts and ongoing conflict, coupled with a highly mobile population which all contribute to low school enrolment and limited access to quality education.  As a result, over 70% of late primary school students in the region cannot read and understand a simple story in Somali. The region’s average school enrolment, at around 30%, also continues to be one of the lowest in the world.

    Developed in response to these challenges, Daariz offers virtual reading, writing, comprehension lessons and a digital library, ensuring everyone can access a consistent and high-quality education.

    Daariz is designed to help in-school and out-of-school children and adults achieve functional literacy in Somali language within a short period of time. It combines fun, interactive games, and personalised feedback with a reward system, making learning enjoyable and engaging.

    The app’s offline access has critically enabled more women and girls, who face significant educational barriers, to acquire literacy skills remotely. About 48% of Daariz learners are women and girls which is significantly higher than female school enrolment in the region.

    Safiya, a market stall owner in the city of Hargeisa, said:

     

    “In the beginning, reading was difficult for me and I struggled to understand names or other texts. I spend most of my time at my stall in the market of Hargeysa. I downloaded the Daariz programme and began using it regularly, dedicating two hours each morning.  I would spend 30 minutes reading each page. I continued this way for six months. Now, my reading has improved significantly and I have started to read and write on my own.”

    With speed and automaticity being essential for effective literacy development, Daariz helps people to develop their pace with reading and retention of information. This focus has significantly reduced the time it takes to achieve functional literacy, from 450 hours to just 50.

    Daariz also incorporates culturally relevant elements like virtual camels and badges to engage learners. Earning a herd of a hundred ‘virtual camels’ – cherished symbols of wealth in Somali culture – indicates achievement of functional literacy, a critical milestone.  To date, learners have earned an impressive five million ‘camels’ for their literacy achievements. Soon, learners’ virtual camel stock will outnumber the actual seven million-strong real Somali camel grazing in the Horn of Africa region.

    Ismail Ahmed, founder of The Sahamiye Foundation, said:

    “Daariz fills a critical gap in the Horn of Africa, providing accessible and engaging literacy education where it’s most needed. The 350,000 learners is not just a number, but a testament to our shared belief in the transformative power of literacy. Each person represents a story of resilience, potential, and a brighter future.”

     

    “Our vision is to unlock the potential of every learner, regardless of their location or situation. Daariz equips people of all ages with the confidence to learn at their own pace, to challenge themselves and have fun in the process. This is particularly important for girls, students who are out-of-school and adults who may have missed out on schooling.”

     

    Daariz further supports learners to progress and improve their skills by monitoring test results, app usage, engagement levels, speed reading performance.