Training on digital agriculture in the DRC – Mbuji-Mayi, Kasaï-Oriental
In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the African Agricultural Leadership Institute (AALI) recently organized training on digital agriculture in Mbuji-Mayi, in the Kasaï-Oriental province. Over two days, more than 60 participants, including agronomy students, inspectors, agronomists and entrepreneurs, had the opportunity to deepen their knowledge in this rapidly expanding field.
The objective of this training was to promote the transformation of African agriculture through the use of digital technologies. Under the guidance of AALI experts, participants were able to familiarize themselves with the different applications and digital tools used in the agricultural field, such as the detection of diseases on crops, plot mapping, the use of drones. and global positioning systems (GPS).
According to AALI member Asia Jafard, this training is of great importance because it allows farmers to improve their productivity and combat food insecurity. Indeed, the use of digital technologies allows better crop management, precise monitoring of yield and early detection of diseases affecting plants.
The practical aspect of the training was also highlighted by Engineer Léon Lukusa, in charge of agricultural sectors at EPST Kasaï-Oriental. According to him, it is essential that farmers learn to quantify their production and use the figures to improve their management.
Participants, such as Doris Ndaya and Jean Paul Mpiana, were enthusiastic about the knowledge acquired during the training. They believe that this will allow them to reduce costs and waste in their agricultural activities. Doris Ndaya particularly emphasizes the importance of being able to closely control and monitor one’s work, as well as the possibility of quickly detecting diseases affecting plants.
It is also worth mentioning that AALI has youth brigades trained to support agricultural operators in various areas, such as modernized crop production, livestock breeding, fish farming, mechanization and agricultural education.
This training on digital agriculture in the DRC demonstrates the growing importance of digital technologies in the agricultural sector. It opens new perspectives for Congolese farmers, providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to improve their productivity and profitability. AALI plays a crucial role in training the new generation of African farmers in innovative and sustainable agricultural practices, thereby contributing to the development of agriculture in the DRC and on the continent.