Figure 1: Women farmers in Nigeria receiving hands on training of APWENFarm app and Plantix app
The transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture has garnered significant attention in recent years. In Africa, where agriculture remains a critical sector for livelihoods and economic growth, AI is seen as a promising tool to overcome various challenges. However, while AI offers substantial benefits, there is a risk that it could exacerbate existing inequalities, particularly for women and marginalized communities, if not implemented inclusively.
To address these concerns, the African Technology Policy Studies Network (ATPS), in collaboration with Kumasi Hive and the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe), with generous support from Gender at Work, launched the Strengthening the Capacity of Women and Marginalized Communities in Africa’s Agriculture and Food Systems to Harness the Potentials of Artificial Intelligence Technology project. This initiative, part of the broader Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture and Food Systems (AI4AFS) innovation research network, was designed to promote gender equity and empower marginalized communities in the adoption and use of AI technologies in agriculture.
Launched in the year 2023, this project aimed to address the persistent productivity divide between men and women in African agriculture. Despite their dominance in the agricultural workforce, comprising 60% to 80% of all agricultural labour, women often face significant barriers, including limited access to technology, restricted land ownership, financial constraints, and lower levels of education. These challenges are further compounded for other marginalized farmers, making it difficult for them to benefit from AI advancements.
Figure 2 Women farmers in Nigeria during a hands on training session on setting up a Smart Drip irrigation system
The project was structured around two main objectives:
Throughout the project, several key activities were undertaken to achieve the set objectives:
The Strengthening the Capacity of Women and Marginalized Communities in Africa’s Agriculture and Food Systems to Harness the Potentials of Artificial Intelligence Technology project has had a significant impact on the target groups and the broader agricultural sector in Africa:
The project concluded with a dissemination webinar on August 12th, 2024, themed ” Insights and Best Practices from AI4D Artificial Intelligence for Agriculture and Food Systems Gender Innovation Project.” The webinar, provided an opportunity to share the project’s achievements and lessons learned with a wider audience. Watch the Webinar Here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fNgw2jueg6I&t=21s