Kenya moves to drone-based farming through new Agriculture Ministry partnership
The Ministry of Agriculture joins hands with Fahari Aviation to promote data-driven and youth-inclusive farming solutions.
KENYA – The Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development has announced a partnership with Fahari Aviation, a subsidiary of Kenya Airways, to introduce drone-based precision agriculture solutions across the country.
The collaboration is part of the Ministry’s Strategic Plan 2023–2027, which highlights technology as a driver of agricultural growth and food security.
Speaking during the launch, Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mithika Linturi said the use of drones will help transform the way farmers work and improve productivity.
“Our goal is to build a smarter and more resilient farming system that can withstand climate shocks and meet the needs of both today and future generations,” he said.
The partnership seeks to tackle long-standing challenges such as soil degradation, poor input use, pest outbreaks, and the growing effects of climate change. Drones will play a key role by providing real-time data on soil health and crop conditions, enabling farmers to make informed decisions.
“Through these technologies, farmers can identify areas that need fertilizer, detect pest infestations early, and reduce wastage,” said Fahari Aviation General Manager David Kuria. He added that the use of drones will also help cut costs while increasing yields.
The technology will also support farmers to adapt to changing weather patterns. Drones can monitor rainfall trends, track moisture levels, and assess risks such as floods or droughts, helping farmers prepare in advance.
A major part of the initiative focuses on creating new opportunities for young people. Fahari Aviation will offer training on drone operations, data collection, and digital farming. The training will help young Kenyans gain skills that link technology and agriculture.
“This is about bringing a new generation of farmers who are tech-savvy and ready to apply modern methods to agriculture,” said Linturi. “We want to show that agriculture is not only about the hoe and the plough, but also about data and innovation.”
The Agricultural Information Resource Centre will lead the rollout plan, ensuring that drone use benefits both large-scale and smallholder farmers. A national roadmap is being developed to guide this process and guarantee accessibility for farmers in all regions.
Broader national progress
The Ministry also confirmed that the partnership aligns with other ongoing programs aimed at boosting food production and improving farmer welfare. These include the expansion of irrigation projects and investment in climate-smart technologies.
“This is part of our broader mission to make agriculture profitable and sustainable,” said Linturi. “By combining local knowledge with modern tools, we can make Kenya’s farms more productive and more resilient.”
As the government continues to promote technology in farming, the entry of drones marks a major step toward a more efficient and youth-driven agricultural future for Kenya.
Be the first to leave a comment