This paper is titled "Meta-Analysis Assessing Potential of Drone Remote Sensing in Estimating Plant Traits Related to Nitrogen Use Efficiency " published by MDPI Remote Sensing journal. The authors from TUM are  Mr. Jingcheng Zhang , Prof. Dr. Yuncai Hu,Prof. Dr. Fei Li ,and Prof. Dr. Kang Yu while from SUA is Dr Kadeghe Fue from EPAL.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UASs) are playing an increasingly pivotal role in precision agriculture. They have the ability to provide real-time insights into plant health across multiple spectral domains. However, there needs to be more documentation on their precision in estimating plant traits associated with Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) and the factors that affect this precision.

A comprehensive review was conducted to address this gap to examine UASs' capabilities in assessing NUE in crops. 164 articles were obtained from Scopus and Web of Sciences searches. A publication was required to fulfill three criteria to be included in the review: (i) the study uses UAS type; (ii) it focuses on vegetation NUE; (iii) it uses at least one of the NUE indicators. A total of 35 studies were included in the quantitative analysis, as they met the criteria and provided extractable data for all features.

The analysis revealed that different growth stages affect NUE and biomass assessments in crops. This indicates the need for customized flight plans and sensor calibration for each crop and growth stage. The study also highlighted how specific signal processing techniques and sensor types impact the accuracy of remote sensing data. To ensure the reliability and validity of collected data, the authors emphasized the importance of optimized flight parameters and precise sensor calibration.

The review also delved into how different canopy structures, such as planophile and erect leaf orientations, uniquely impact spectral data interpretation. The study recognized the untapped potential of image texture features in UAV-based remote sensing for detailed analysis of canopy micro-architecture. By leveraging these techniques, obtaining a more comprehensive understanding of plant health and nutrient distribution may be possible, which can inform more effective crop management strategies.

Overall, this research underscores the transformative impact of UAS technology on agricultural productivity and sustainability. It demonstrates its potential to provide more accurate and comprehensive insights for effective crop health and nutrient management strategies. With further research and development, UASs could revolutionize precision agriculture, leading to improved yields, reduced environmental impact, and better resource management.

Please enjoy the paper at https://www.mdpi.com/2072-4292/16/5/838 

4th March 2024

In recent years, precision agriculture has emerged as a promising approach to enhance agricultural productivity, sustainability, and efficiency by integrating Internet of Things (IoT) technologies into agricultural practices. In this regard, the Electronics and Precision Agriculture Lab (EPAL) has launched an IoT server engine based on ThingsBoard open-source software. This article explores the implications of this initiative and underscores the importance of collaborative efforts with stakeholders in leveraging IoT for agricultural advancement and beyond.

IoT in agriculture entails using sensors, actuators, and other devices to collect and analyze data from agricultural environments, such as soil moisture levels, temperature, crop health, and machinery performance. By harnessing IoT technologies, farmers can make data-driven decisions to optimize resource use, enhance crop yields, and mitigate risks such as pests and diseases.

EPAL's IoT server engine (http://www.servers.epalab.org:9090 ) based on ThingsBoard open-source software is a centralized platform designed to collect, store, and analyze data from multiple IoT devices deployed in agricultural settings. This scalable and customizable solution can cater to the diverse needs of farmers, researchers, and other stakeholders in the agricultural sector.

Introducing EPAL's IoT server engine brings several benefits to the agricultural community and beyond. Firstly, it enables real-time monitoring and management of agricultural processes and empowers farmers to respond promptly to changing conditions while optimizing resource allocation. Secondly, by aggregating and analyzing data from multiple sources, the IoT server engine facilitates data-driven decision-making, thereby enhancing productivity and sustainability. Additionally, the open-source nature of ThingsBoard promotes transparency, collaboration, and innovation within the agricultural community.

EPAL's initiative exemplifies the importance of stakeholder collaboration in successfully implementing IoT technologies in agriculture. By actively engaging farmers, agricultural researchers, technology developers, and policymakers, EPAL ensures that its IoT solutions are tailored to the needs and challenges of end-users. Moreover, collaboration fosters knowledge exchange, capacity building, and co-creation of innovative solutions that address pressing issues in agriculture, such as climate change adaptation, food security, and rural development.

In conclusion, EPAL's launch of an IoT server engine based on ThingsBoard open-source software represents a significant advancement in precision agriculture. By harnessing IoT technologies, EPAL enables data-driven decision-making, enhances agricultural productivity, promotes sustainability, and fosters collaboration and innovation within the agricultural community. Moving forward, continued collaboration with stakeholders will be essential to realizing the full potential of IoT in agriculture and beyond, ultimately contributing to the transformation of food systems and the well-being of society as a whole.

03 March 2024

High throughput phenotyping (HTP) is a fancy way of saying that we use high-tech tools like sensors, imaging systems, and drones to measure plant traits quickly and on a large scale. This includes how fast they grow, how well they resist diseases, and how much they yield. Using these tools, we can speed up the process of developing new crops better adapted to harsh growing conditions, especially in African countries. This is super important because traditional breeding methods are often slow and labor-intensive, and they're not good at developing crops that can withstand things like climate change or pests.

One of the great things about HTP is that it can help us understand the genetics behind complex traits like drought tolerance and disease resistance. We can pinpoint the genetic markers associated with these traits by analyzing large amounts of data. This makes it easier for breeders to create more resilient and productive crops, which can help farmers improve their yields and livelihoods.

HTP is also a great way to evaluate multiple traits simultaneously, which can help us develop crops that perform well in various conditions. This is different from traditional breeding methods, which often focus on just a few key traits. By looking at a broader range of traits, we can develop more adaptable crops to the diverse growing conditions found across Africa.

Overall, HTP has the potential to revolutionize crop breeding and help us create crops that are better suited to challenging growing conditions. However, we need to invest in infrastructure and collaboration to ensure these tools are accessible to everyone who needs them. By working together, we can help smallholder farmers in Africa and beyond improve their yields and achieve food security.

03/03/2024

The EPAL Lab team member played a pivotal role in supporting the "Development of Artificial Empowered Crop Disease Surveillance Prediction and Management" project during their visit to Dakawa Rice Farms. This innovative project, funded by COSTECH and led by Dr. Michael Mahenge, aims to utilize advanced drone technology for real-time crop monitoring, with a particular emphasis on disease identification. As part of this project, Mr. Dickson Massawe, a highly skilled drone pilot employed by EPAL, collaborated with the project team to capture vital drone images. These images were used to create detailed maps of the rice fields, which were then analyzed to identify areas affected by disease.

The contribution of the EPAL Lab team in providing drone assistance was critical to the success of the project. By facilitating the acquisition of high-quality images, the team at EPAL aimed to improve the accuracy of disease identification, enabling prompt intervention and efficient plant health management. The use of drone technology for crop surveillance is a significant development in the field of agriculture, and the EPAL team's dedication to promoting innovation in this area is commendable.

This impressive collaboration between EPAL and the project team at Dakawa Rice Farms underscores EPAL's commitment to leveraging technology in support of impactful agricultural initiatives. By fostering progress in the field of agriculture, EPAL hopes to contribute to sustainable development in Tanzania and beyond.

28 Feb 2024

It is alarming that the detrimental effects of hazardous and toxic chemicals used in agriculture are not adequately discussed despite the significant harm they can cause to people and nations. Most farmers who use these chemicals do not have a platform to voice their concerns, and many people are not aware of the dangers posed by these chemicals. As a result, chemical poisoning is rarely reported.

Since 1990, pesticide poisoning has been recognized as a significant public health crisis. A task force from the World Health Organization (WHO) estimated that unintentional pesticide poisonings occur annually, resulting in approximately 20,000 fatalities. However, there has been no updated assessment of global pesticide poisoning in the past three decades, despite a surge in global pesticide usage. Poisoning of children due to pesticide exposure is a pressing public health issue, particularly in economically disadvantaged urban areas in Africa.

International organizations have taken steps to address the detrimental effects of pesticide use through various resolutions and programs over the past two decades. However, global pesticide usage has continued to increase steadily, reaching 4.1 million tonnes annually by 2017, marking an 81% increase since 1990. There is a lack of updated estimates for global pesticide-related illnesses, despite several smaller surveys on pesticide poisoning. Authoritative studies still rely on outdated WHO estimates from the 1980s.

Recent research shows that pesticides contribute to 14-20% of global suicides, resulting in 110,000-168,000 deaths annually from 2010 to 2014. While this is a decrease from the estimated 258,234 suicides in 2002, it highlights the need for regulating toxic pesticides and addressing rural-urban population shifts. Nevertheless, there are no updated estimates for unintentional pesticide poisoning.

Pesticide exposure is a growing public health concern in Tanzania, with an increase in pesticide imports and registrations. The presence of unacceptable pesticide residues in food, water, and soil highlights the urgent need for heightened awareness regarding pesticide effects. Inadequate management practices in Tanzania have exacerbated the misuse of pesticides, necessitating immediate intervention to address persistent malpractices in pesticide handling.

Given these challenges, it is crucial to explore alternative methods to mitigate intentional and unintentional pesticide exposure. One potential solution is the development of automated vehicles capable of pesticide application without human intervention. Currently, expensive tractor machines are used, but developing small, affordable automated vehicles could revolutionize pesticide application, particularly in dangerous agricultural environments. Machines that cost less than 25% of the current cost will revolutionize the industry. Emerging technologies such as robotics and artificial intelligence could play a pivotal role in this regard, particularly in African countries where concerns about job displacement are minimal due to the hazardous nature of pesticide application. Furthermore, using emerging technologies to develop methods on the detection of pesticides in food, water, or soil using simple and cost-effective handheld devices will combat pesticide misuse and protect communities in Africa.

01 March 2024

Water scarcity in agriculture highlights the need to understand pressure variation in drip irrigation systems. Pressure levels affect water distribution, crop health, and system performance. By examining pressure variation and integrating modeling software, we can advance precision agriculture. Her study uses the EPANET simulation model to assess pressure variation's impact on drip irrigation outcomes. This exploration delves into the impact of pressure variation on drip irrigation efficiency and the role of modeling software in optimizing system dynamics. Her study aims to deepen understanding, optimize irrigation practices, promote data-driven decision-making, and provide practical recommendations. 

In this study, comprehensive measurements is taken to calculate various performance indicators, including CU (Coherence Uniformity), DU (Distribution Uniformity), EU (Emitter Uniformity), CV (Coefficient of Variation), and variation ratio (Qvar). Pressure levels is controlled using pressure regulators (gate valves) strategically placed at the inlets. 

Ms Jane is supervised by Dr Kadeghe Fue and Prof Andrew Tarimo.

This project is funded by the EAC scholarship sponsored by the KFW Bank and implemented by the Inter-University Council for East Africa (IUCEA).

27 November 2023

Congratulations to Mr. Dickson Massawe on his impressive achievements during his four years at EPAL. His exceptional skills in Mechatronics, AI, and embedded systems development for Agriculture have been invaluable to the many successful projects he has completed. Mr. Massawe has proven himself to be highly competent and has demonstrated his brilliance in IoTs and Robotics. His contributions to the robotics projects at EPAL have been instrumental, and he will be finishing them soon. His skills and dedication to the field of Agriculture are sure to shape its future, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.

23 November 2023

The Principal Investigator (PI) had the honour of moderating a plenary session during the first international conference on the Advancements of AI in the African Context (AAIAC). The meeting was held at the Arusha International Conference Centre (AICC) from 15 - 16 November 2023.  The conference attracted more than 150 participants from more than 25 countries. The session focused on the challenges and opportunities of using AI in Agriculture and Environmental Conservation and featured four panellists: Dr. Mahadia Tunga from Dar es Salaam, Dr. Dina Machuve from Arusha, Dr. Thomas Basikolo from Switzerland, and Mr. Samuel Wanjau from Kenya. The panellists engaged in productive conversations about pressing issues that require attention from scientists. It's crucial to expand our AI research scope and tackle significant challenges that have yet to be addressed by AI experts. Doing so presents exceptional opportunities for impactful research that benefits our farming communities. #artificialintelligence #precisionagriculture #digitalagriculture 

16 November 2023

You may read more at https://www.digitalfrontiersdai.com/resources/digital-agriculture-ecosystem-assessment-tanzania/ 

Agriculture is a significant sector that plays a crucial role in the economy of many countries, particularly in developing nations. Digital agriculture solutions have emerged as a promising approach to enhance agricultural outcomes and uplift rural communities. These solutions offer access to a range of critical information, such as crop advisories, weather forecasts, and market prices, which can help farmers make informed decisions and improve their yield. 

Moreover, digital solutions provide credit options, including short-term credit for inputs and long-term asset financing for farm equipment, which can help farmers invest in their farms. Digital marketplaces for inputs and offtake can also help farmers connect with buyers more efficiently, enabling them to sell their produce at a fair price. 

Digital agriculture can help farmers access formal financial services such as loans, savings, and insurance products, which can help them manage risk and invest in their farms. Digital platforms can also provide farmers with access to extension services, training, and support, which can help them improve their knowledge and skills.

This report presents the findings of the Digital Agriculture Ecosystem Assessment conducted in Tanzania, commissioned by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) through DAI. The assessment aimed to map relevant actors within the digital agriculture ecosystem in Tanzania, identify challenges and opportunities for effective digital technology adoption in the agriculture sector, particularly aligned with USAID/Tanzania’s priorities. Additionally, it assessed the specific challenges and opportunities for Tanzanian women and youth in digital agriculture.

The assessment found that digital agriculture solutions have the potential to enhance smallholder farmer livelihoods, increase profitability, and promote sustainable broad-based economic development in rural areas. However, several challenges hinder the adoption of digital technology in agriculture, such as inadequate infrastructure, limited digital literacy, and insufficient access to finance. 

The assessment also highlighted the specific challenges and opportunities for Tanzanian women and youth in digital agriculture. Women and youth face several barriers to participating in digital agriculture, such as limited access to digital devices, low digital literacy, and social norms that restrict their participation in economic activities. However, digital agriculture can also offer women and youth new opportunities for employment and income generation, particularly in the non-farm sector. 

Overall, the assessment underscores the potential of digital agriculture solutions to transform the agriculture sector in Tanzania and benefit smallholder farmers, women, and youth. However, realizing this potential requires addressing the challenges and opportunities identified in the assessment and developing effective strategies to promote digital technology adoption in agriculture.

https://www.digitalfrontiersdai.com/resources/digital-agriculture-ecosystem-assessment-tanzania/ 

EPAL and YEESI lab are featured at page 44.

30 September 2023

At the EPAL farm in Morogoro Region, a farmer demonstrated how to use a 5g cup to apply fertilizer on a test farm. EPAL farm is currently experimenting with four different treatments - 0g, 5g, 10g, and 15g - to determine the effectiveness of UAVs in advising fertilizer application. A drone is being flown over the field to capture images that will be used to train a model to differentiate between plants that require fertilizer and those that do not.

26th Sept 2023

Our team from EPAL recently visited the Mang'ula Farmers for a five-day period, from September 24th to 26th, 2023. Throughout our stay, we carefully gathered drone imagery data and images of various crop diseases. We also led Focus Group Discussions to discuss the best techniques for irrigation and fertilizer application.

27-Sep-2023

Read more at https://www.twas.org/article/tailoring-needs-african-farmers

Meet Kadeghe Goodluck Fue, an engineer from Tanzania who has been awarded the SG-NAPI grant for 2021-2023. Fue has developed a revolutionary smartphone application that aims to assist farmers in improving crop yields. The app uses AI and machine learning algorithms to determine the right time for farmers to water their crops or add fertilizer. By doing so, it helps farmers to ensure that they take the necessary steps at the right time, saving both time and money.

The use of mobile phones among smallholder farmers in Tanzania has been increasing agricultural productivity, boosting their incomes, and promoting the transition to precision agriculture. Fue, who obtained a PhD in agricultural robotics from the University of Georgia, has specialized in artificial intelligence in agriculture. He has developed an interest in farming techniques and became an expert in digital and data-driven agriculture. 

Fue's dream is to bring about positive changes in Tanzanian agriculture. Through his innovative app, he aims to equip farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge to improve yields and enhance overall productivity. With his extensive knowledge and expertise in the field, Fue hopes to revolutionize Tanzanian agriculture and improve the lives of smallholder farmers in the country.

21-Sep-2023

Dr. Kadeghe Fue has been selected to present at the Tanzania Health Summit, which will take place from October 3rd to 5th, 2023 at Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC), Dar es Salaam. He will be discussing his co-authored publication entitled "Development of a Data-Driven Machine Learning Conceptual Framework for Predicting Climate-Sensitive Water-borne Disease Outbreaks." Dr. Neema N. Lyimo, the PI of the ACHE Project, Dr. Joseph P. Telemala, co-PI of the ACHE, Dr. Silvia F. Materu, Dr. Kadeghe G. Fue, and Dr. Ndimile C. Kilatu are all contributors to the publication. The ACHE Project, which stands for AI Climate and Health, is supported by Lacuna Fund and Meridian Institute.

During her response to a question from a young attendee at the 2023 African Green Revolution Forum (AGRF) held at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC), President Samia eloquently outlined the Tanzanian government's strategic initiatives concerning the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) systems into the agricultural sector. Simultaneously, she elucidated the measures devised to attract younger generations to engage in agriculture. She further underscored the application of ICT in precision irrigation techniques, ensuring the timely and optimal supply of water to crops.

Additionally, President Samia emphasized the pivotal role of ICT in modernizing agricultural produce storage. This entails the establishment of state-of-the-art storage facilities equipped with advanced machinery designed to regulate moisture levels in grains, thereby reducing the risk of mold contamination.

Furthermore, the President highlighted the utilization of ICT for accessing accurate market information and the technological enhancement of farming practices to streamline land preparation for harvesting. This technological advancement empowers young farmers by enabling them to use automated devices capable of multitasking.

Furthermore, President Samia emphasized the provision of specialized equipment to agricultural extension officers for conducting soil health assessments. This valuable service will be extended to encompass all farmers, equipping them with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions regarding fertilizer and seed selection.

In summary, President Samia Suluhu Hassan reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to improving agricultural methodologies through ICT integration, promoting local seed production, and providing young farmers with essential tools and knowledge to thrive in the agricultural sector.

In a related context, it is worth noting that EPA Lab at Sokoine University of Agriculture has been dedicated to the development of Precision Irrigation technologies since 2013. Currently, our team is actively engaged in the creation of the "mwagilia" app, an innovative platform designed to exclusively offer guidance to Tanzanian farmers regarding the appropriate application of irrigation, including dosage, timing, and methodology.

Written By Dr Kadeghe Fue

7 September 2023

Heifer Tanzania, in collaboration with Sahara Ventures, has selected Mr. Ibrahim Meshack and Mr. Stephano Mashauri, both pursuing Agricultural engineering at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, to participate in the AYuTe Africa Challenge. They are proposing to develop an on-the-go nutrient detection device that integrates a Mobile app with Artificial Intelligence Technology.

This challenge awards cash grants to young agritech innovators using technology to revolutionize farming and food production in Africa. Heifer International invests over $1.5 million annually to promote digital agriculture entrepreneurship in Africa through the AYuTe initiative. In 2022, the AYuTe Africa Challenge has expanded its reach by introducing national competitions in Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Tanzania, Malawi, and Uganda, providing young innovators with the opportunity to secure funding and visibility to bring their ideas to life.

Many congratulations to Mr Ibrahim and Mr Stephano.

Check previous winners. Read More. 

21st August 2023

Mwagilia App is featuring in mainstream media in Tanzania. Read more about this app on our innovations section of the web.

8th August 2023

Reported by Winfrida Nicolaus SUA MEDIA

Chuo Kikuu cha Sokoine cha Kilimo SUA kupitia Idara ya Uhandisi Kilimo imekuja na Roboti linalojiendesha lenyewe lenye uwezo wa kupiga dawa ya kuuwa magugu au wadudu kwenye sehemu husika pekee kwenye Maonesho ya Wakulima, Wafugaji na Wavuvi Kanda ya Mashariki yanayoendelea katika Viwanja wa Mwalimu Julius Nyerere mjini Morogoro.

Hayo yamebainishwa na  Donat Shukuru Mkufunzi Msaidizi toka Shule ya Uhandisi na Teknolojia, Idara ya Uhandisi Kilimo SUA wakati akizungumza na SUAMEDIA kwenye Maonesho hayo kuhusiana Vumbuzi mbalimbali wanazozifanya ikiwemo Mashine za Teknolojia za kisasa au Mashine zinazotumia Akili bandia pamoja na Mifumo mbalimbali itakayoleta Tija kwenye Kilimo.

Amesema lengo la kuleta Teknolojia hiyo ya Roboti ni kuhakikisha Kilimo kinafanyika kwa usahihi kwa kuwa inaenda kuokoa gharama za Uzalishaji kwa kupunguza matumizi ya dawa vile vile kusaidia kuondoa matumizi ya dawa yasiyohitajika kwenye Mazingira kwa kuwa kuweka dawa kwenye Mazingira bila kujua ni kiasi gani kinachohitajika ni kuchafua Mazingira.

Vile vile kwa kuwa Roboti hilo linajiendesha lenyewe linakuwa linamuweka mbali  mtumiaji wa dawa na kumuepusha kuathirika na dawa hizo hivyo inaonesha ni jinsi gani Teknolojia hiyo ilivyo ya muhimu na kuleta Tija kwenye Kilimo. 

“Tunahusika pia na Vumbuzi mbalimbali kama Mashine za kutotoreshea Vifaranga, Mashine za kuangulia mayai kama ni mazima, Mashine za automatic za Umwagiliaji (Automatic irrigation system) vile vile tunahusika na Mifumo mbalimbali ya simu kama vile Mifumo ya kushauri kiasi cha maji cha Umwagiliaji na Mifumo ya kuangalia Magonjwa kwenye Mimea”, amesema Mkufunzi huyo. 

07 August 2023

The ACHE Project's inception meeting was held in Morogoro Municipality on July 31st, 2023, focusing on the Tanzania Climate Sensitive Waterborne Diseases Dataset for Predictive Machine Learning (ACHE). Dr. Neema N. Lyimo, the principal investigator (PI) from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), College of Natural and Applied Sciences, leads the project in collaboration with a researcher from Morogoro Municipality. The project's primary objective is to gather data using Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology to predict climate-sensitive waterborne infectious disease outbreaks, including Ameobiasis, Diarrhea, and Typhoid.

This initiative is of utmost importance in addressing the escalating occurrence of waterborne infectious diseases like typhoid, amoeba, and diarrhea, which are exacerbated by climate change. The integration of AI technology to the data collected will enable accurate prediction of disease outbreaks, allowing relevant authorities to take timely preventive measures and issue early warnings to the public.

The research team for the project consists of SUA researchers, namely Dr. Silvia Materu, Dr. Joseph Telemala, and Dr. Kadeghe Fue, along with Dr. Ndimile Kilatu from Morogoro Municipality. Notable figures, including Dr. Charles Mkumbachepa, Chief Medical Officer of Morogoro Municipality, Martin Mzuwanda, Acting Health Officer of Morogoro Municipality, and Hezron Ligala, Coordinator of the Solid Waste Management Unit in Morogoro Municipality, attended the project's launch.

Today, 18th July 2023, the Vice Chancellor of @SokoineU, @RChibunda visited our booth at the 8th Higher Education, Science, and Technology Exhibitions. We were able to showcase our innovations and fly a PA Drone for him. Precision Agriculture (PA) works at @SokoineU. www.epalab.org 

He has promised support from the university whenever needed so that the lab can continue innovating solutions that are important for farmers.

18 July 2023

In collaboration with Neggrow Company CEO Mr. James Kabati, EPA Lab is actively participating in the 18th Higher Education, Science, and Technology Exhibitions, known as the 2023 TCU Exhibitions, held in Dar es Salaam. The exhibitions are taking place at Mnazi Mmoja Grounds from Monday, July 17th to Saturday, July 22nd, 2023. Representing EPA Lab at the event is Mr. Donat Shukuru, a member of the lab. The theme for this year's exhibitions is "Enhancing Skills Development through Higher Education, Science, and Technology for a Competitive Economy."

17-July-2023