(Juja) – Kenyan researchers at JKUAT have developed an autonomous agricultural robot to combat climate change impacts and improve farming efficiency through cutting-edge technology.
In the fight against climate change, Kenya’s agricultural sector is embracing advanced technology, with researchers from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) leading the charge. The university, in partnership with stakeholders, has developed an autonomous robot designed to revolutionize farming by improving efficiency, reducing chemical use, and addressing resource challenges.
Through the Robotics Dojo program under the AFRICA-ai-JAPAN project, students at JKUAT are creating innovative solutions to address the unique challenges facing agriculture. The program aims to build local expertise in robotics research and enhance food security through technology-driven farming practices.
At the October 2024 Robotics Dojo competition, JKUAT students unveiled a prototype agricultural robot equipped with sensors capable of detecting plant needs and identifying challenges such as pest infestations and water shortages. The robot’s design enables it to provide precise interventions, helping farmers optimize the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides while reducing waste.
| Key Features of the Autonomous Agricultural Robot | Functionality |
|---|---|
| Sensors for Plant Needs | Detects water, nutrient, and pest-related requirements. |
| Laser-Based Mapping (LIDAR) | Navigates unknown environments with precision. |
| Autonomous Operation | Performs tasks such as spraying and potential harvesting. |
| Energy Efficiency | Powered by a portable power bank to eliminate reliance on grid power. |
Dr. Shohei Aoki, Robotics Dojo coordinator and expert from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), highlighted the robot’s potential to reduce chemical use by identifying problems early and applying solutions precisely. “This robot will not only lower costs for farmers but also protect the environment by minimizing chemical use and waste,” he said.
The 2024 Robotics Dojo competition, the third edition since its launch in 2022, focused on autonomous robots utilizing Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) technology, which allows robots to operate effectively in unfamiliar environments. Forty-one participants from JKUAT, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT), and the Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology, and Innovation (PAUSTI) showcased their creations, with each team working within a budget of KSh 20,000.
| Competition Highlights | Details |
|---|---|
| Year of Inception | 2022 |
| Participants in 2024 | 41 students from 3 universities |
| Focus of 2024 Edition | Autonomous robots using SLAM technology |
| Development Budget per Robot | KSh 20,000 |
Mohamed Ibrahim, a fourth-year student at JKUAT, led his team in developing an autonomous robot prototype. He praised the initiative for encouraging innovation and offering students a platform to apply their skills to real-world challenges in agriculture, industry, and transportation. “These competitions not only foster creativity but also help bridge the gap between research and practical solutions,” he said.
JKUAT aims to expand the robot’s capabilities to include planting, spraying, and harvesting, offering a transformative solution to labor shortages and resource inefficiency. The Robotics Dojo program has trained 146 students since its inception, building a pipeline of skilled innovators poised to shape the future of Kenyan agriculture.