14/11/2024
SMARTSOIL PROJECT PRESENTS GEAGROW APP AT THE 2-DAY STAKEHOLDERS SENSITIZATION WORKSHOP ON THE INTRODUCTION OF SOIL HEALTH CARD TO THE NIGERIAN AGRICULTURAL SYSTEM – SOUTHERN REGION HELD AT GOLDEN TULIP HOTEL, IBADAN
Prof. Busari Mutiu, Co-Project Leader, SmartSoil Project recently presented the GeaGrow app at a sensitization workshop, generating excitement among stakeholders. The workshop aimed to introduce the National Soil Health Card to Nigeria's agricultural system, organized by the Department of Land and Climate Management Services, Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, in collaboration with GIZ and ACReSAL.
The presentation was met with commendation from all quarters, acknowledging the project's timely innovation. Professor Busari shared the impressive journey of the SmartSoil project team, who traveled across six Southwest states collecting soil samples, analyzing them in labs, and leveraging machine learning and artificial intelligence to create the innovative GeaGrow App.This cutting-edge app can predict soil nutrients for any location in the Southwest, revolutionizing agricultural productivity.
The project's goal is to improve sustainable soil management for agricultural production in the Southwest, Nigeria, by utilizing the latest technologies and innovations in soil and computer science.
The SmartSoil project aims to provide farmers with easy access to estimated soil fertility information, boosting productivity and promoting smart agriculture practices.
The project's progress has sparked interest from key stakeholders, including Mr. Oshadiya Olanipekun, Director of the Department of Land and Climate Management Services, who expressed enthusiasm for potential collaboration on developing a digital national soil health card. This collaboration could further enhance the impact of the SmartSoil project.
Key Features of the GeaGrow App:
- Soil Nutrient Prediction: Accurately predicts soil nutrients for any location in the Southwest.
- Machine Learning and AI: Employs advanced technologies for soil analysis.
- Digital Soil Mapping: Provides valuable insights for optimal agricultural yield and sustainable soil biodiversity management.
The SmartSoil project is part of the AGriDI program, sponsored by the European Union, and is one of the 10 projects funded under the program. Its success has the potential to transform agricultural practices in Nigeria and beyond.
The workshop was a significant gathering of key stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including Honorable Commissioners of Agriculture from the Southern region, chairmen of the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), and coordinators from the Small-Scale Women Farmers Organization of Nigeria (SWOFON).
Also in attendance were esteemed representatives from agricultural expert groups, government institutions, private sector organizations, research institutions, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and farmers.
Key Attendees from the SmartSoil Project: Mr. Enikanoselu Oluwafemi, Project Communication Officer, Mr. Hammed Sharafadeen, Field Officer 1 and Mr. Richard Abiola,
This diverse gathering of stakeholders and experts aimed to facilitate collaboration, knowledge sharing, and strategic planning to drive growth and development in Nigeria's agricultural sector. By bringing together such a wide range of perspectives and expertise, the workshop laid the groundwork for innovative solutions and meaningful progress in the industry.
Emma Femi Olusegun Folorunso Femi Adekoya ICIPE - International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology Ugwunna Charles Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta - FUNAAB, Nigeria International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Funaab radio IAR & T Ibadan