The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology has officially launched a project to evaluate the effectiveness of modern farming technologies using artificial intelligence. The goal of this project is to assist dairy and meat farmers in overcoming the challenges they face.

During the project’s launch on August 5, 2024, Prof. Ladslaus Mnyone, the Director of the Department of Science, Technology, and Innovation from the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology, highlighted the potential of these technologies to revolutionize the livestock sector by increasing milk production.

Prof. Mnyone emphasized that dairy farmers encounter challenges such as low production and scarce feed, and the project aims to provide farmers with essential information to improve calving season awareness, ultimately boosting milk production and ensuring an adequate food supply. He stressed the importance of disseminating research results and innovations to benefit users and citizens.

Prof. Maulilio Kipanyula, the Vice Chancellor of the Institution, outlined the project’s three-year timeline, which includes establishing a knowledge Center on animal husbandry to educate farmers on utilizing modern technologies in collaboration with various stakeholders. Dr. Geoffrey Dahl, a leading researcher from the University of Florida, highlighted the project’s focus on enhancing productivity for farmers in Maasai communities and ranches, addressing breeding challenges and optimizing livestock quality.

Professor Gabriel Shirima, the Project Coordinator from NM-AIST, explained that the project will help farmers tackle climate change challenges by monitoring cows’ daily activities, feeding habits, and health status. Modern equipment like the smaXtec bolus and Ceres tag device will enable breeders to closely monitor their cows’ behavior and productivity, ensuring optimal care and management.

The project, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, involves collaboration between the Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, the University of Florida, MAP Scientific Services (Ceres Tag), and SmaXtec (Bolus Monitoring System). This initiative aims to empower farmers with cutting-edge technologies to enhance livestock management and productivity in Maasai communities and beyond.