The world today is developing at a faster rate than predicted, especially on the wheels of technology. As the global economy would put it, technology has set the scene for disruptive innovations and practices that are fueling the improvement of various sectors, while generating extraordinary returns for stakeholders.
Although one of the oldest industries in the world, the use of advanced technology such as the Internet of Things (IoT) in the agricultural industry is fueling what we now call the “Fourth Agricultural Revolution”.
Agricultural technology, also known as Agritech/Agtech, involves the application of technology across a wide spectrum to maximize efficiency, quality, profitability and yield in agriculture, horticulture and aquaculture. It covers the use of automated machinery (such as combines and tractors) and farm management software at one end of the spectrum, to the more complex use of genetic engineering and agricultural robotics at the other.
Simply put, Agritech seeks to develop and harmonize agricultural practices and farming processes from “farm to fork”. Therefore, its role in a developing economy like Ghana in ensuring food security is critical.
Emerging Trends in Agricultural Technology
The world population is estimated to reach 9.8 billion by 2050, according to a United Nations report. That means we’ll have about 2 billion extra mouths to feed in less than thirty years. Experts predict that the world will need 70% more protein to feed the future population than it has today. Therefore, in our quest to ensure a sustainable future and ensure food security, agriculture cannot rely only on traditional farming methods.
AgriTech startups are popping up all over the world, developing IOT devices, drones and other farm management systems to gather information resulting in the use of AI and Data Analytics to make data-driven decisions for farmers. Some evolving trends include the following:
1. Precision Agriculture (PA) – a farm management concept that aimed to “farm the soil” using a soil science-based approach, but has evolved to use large amounts of real-time data (collected via sensors placed on farms) to improve crop yields, reduce labor and increase efficiency and productivity.
PA equips farmers with information and guidance on soil quality management, e.g. which parts of their fields to apply fertilizers and pesticides, optimal planting times, moisture requirements, crop rotation, harvest times, etc.
2. Regenerative Agriculture (RA) – is the regeneration of soil to enhance food production. RA is an evolution of conventional agriculture that uses innovative techniques supported by technology to improve soil health and climate resilience, restore lost biodiversity and protect the earth’s ecosystem.
It aims to support global food systems largely by producing nutritious food, reduce greenhouse gas emissions by enhancing natural habitats, and improve the livelihoods of farmers. Under RA, farmers practice multi-cropping (to prevent the removal of nutrients from the soil), agroforestry and livestock incorporation.
3. Vertical farming – referred to as the “savior” in food growing by some, vertical (indoor) farming involves growing crops in vertically stacked beds/trays in a controlled environment. In contrast to the use of land and soil in traditional agriculture, crops are either grown in a nutrient-dense water solution (hydroponics) or the crop roots are suspended in the air and periodically sprayed with water and nutrients (aeroponics).
In this case, factors such as adverse weather conditions and lack of quality soil are eliminated. Vertical cultivation ensures steady crop growth throughout the year.
Is Ghana ready for the agricultural revolution?
For decades, agriculture has been the backbone of Ghana’s economy, providing livelihoods for a significant portion of the population. Agriculture is diverse and includes crop cultivation, animal husbandry, fishing and agroforestry.
Despite its importance to the country’s GDP, the sector faces many challenges, mainly in antiquated agricultural practices, limited by the lack of access to modern technologies as well as the effects of climate change. Thankfully, there is a current growing recognition of the need for transformation in the sector to boost productivity, ensure food security for the future and boost the country’s overall economic growth.
Several indicators suggest that Ghana is on the verge of an agricultural transformation, although the road ahead is not without obstacles. The government has reaffirmed its commitment to rural development through initiatives such as the Planting for Food and Employment program which aims to increase food production, create jobs and boost farmers’ incomes.
However, continued efforts are needed to address systemic administrative and monitoring issues that plague such programs and to ensure their long-term sustainability and success.
Agricultural transformation requires the adoption of modern technologies. While there is growing interest in precision agriculture, agtech and other innovations, there is a need for increased investment in research and development as well as training programs to equip farmers with the necessary skills to effectively utilize these technologies.
Inadequate infrastructure (i.e. transport and storage facilities) remains a major obstacle in this sector, more so in rural transformation in Ghana. Strengthening infrastructure is critical to reducing post-harvest losses, facilitating market access and promoting overall efficiency in the supply chain.
Finally, climate change is a threat to agriculture in Ghana, affecting crop yields and livestock productivity. Implementing climate-smart agricultural practices is critical to building resilience and mitigating the effects of changing weather patterns.
Ghana is at a critical juncture in its agricultural journey and signs of readiness for transformation are evident. However, addressing the challenges and ensuring sustained commitment from all stakeholders, including government, the private sector and local communities is imperative.
Agricultural transformation has the potential not only to enhance food security and economic growth but also to improve the overall well-being of Ghana’s rural population. It is a collective responsibility to work for a resilient, sustainable and modernized agriculture sector to propel the country to new heights on the global stage.
How can Ghana capitalize on these emerging agricultural trends?
Capacity Building and Training
To take full advantage of emerging technology in agriculture, the importance of investment in capacity building and training programs cannot be overemphasized. Educating farmers and other stakeholders in the industry on the use of new technologies will ensure that they can effectively utilize these practices.
Additionally, increasing farmers’ access to digital products such as smartphones will encourage the adoption of agri-tech solutions. Currently, many farmers use feature phones (yams) while others have no access to phones at all. Access to these devices coupled with training and capacity building will accelerate digital transformation in this sector.
AgTech Startups and Innovation Hubs
Encouraging the development of agricultural technology start-ups and innovation hubs can lead to the development and adoption of cutting-edge solutions. Ghana can foster a supportive ecosystem that facilitates collaboration between traditional agricultural practices and innovative technologies, promoting sustainable development.
Drones and satellite imaging
Drones and satellite technology offer valuable information for monitoring crop health, assessing field conditions and identifying potential problems. Ghanaian farmers can use them to quickly survey large fields, identify crop diseases and optimize irrigation and pesticide strategies.
As Ghana strives to revolutionize its agricultural sector, embracing emerging trends in agricultural technology is key to unlocking its full potential. The combination of precision agriculture, smart applications, blockchain and other innovative solutions can help increase productivity, sustainability and overall economic growth.
By fostering a culture of innovation, investing in education and fostering collaboration, Ghana can position itself at the forefront of the global agricultural technology landscape, ensuring a prosperous and resilient future for its farmers and nation.