In a move to tackle food insecurity challenges plaguing the African continent, Eight Orbit Urban Farms (EOUF) has unveiled plans to establish high-tech indoor farms. Spearheaded by Christina Igono, a research scientist based in the United States and founder of EOUF.
The initiative aims to revolutionize agriculture in Nigeria and beyond by harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cutting-edge farming technologies.
AI in agriculture revolutionizing food security in Africa
Africa, with its rapidly growing population, has long grappled with food security issues exacerbated by outdated traditional farming practices, ecological constraints, and seasonal crop production limitations. EOUF recognizes these challenges and is committed to implementing innovative solutions to ensure year-round, sustainable crop production.
EOUF’s pioneering approach involves leveraging AI alongside hydroponic and aeroponic technologies to cultivate a variety of crops including tomatoes, peppers, fruits, leafy vegetables, and staple foods.
By embracing Nutrient Film Techniques (NFT) and controlled environment agriculture, the organization aims to mitigate the reliance on seasonal farming and imports, which often lead to supply shortages and inflated prices.
The use of innovative technologies by EOUF promises numerous benefits, including a 95% reduction in water and resource usage, the production of 100% organic crops with zero herbicide and pesticide usage, zero carbon emissions, and the utilization of low-cost energy sources to enhance efficiency and productivity.
This revolutionary approach not only addresses immediate food security concerns but also promotes environmental sustainability.
Fostering economic growth and job creation
EOUF’s ambitious venture extends beyond addressing food insecurity; it is poised to make significant contributions to Africa’s economic landscape. With plans to develop AI-engineered indoor farms on 20 acres of land in Epe, Lagos state, and 13 acres of land in Kuje, Abuja, the organization anticipates the creation of thousands of jobs and substantial economic growth. Private and public investments in EOUF are expected to further bolster these efforts, paving the way for transformative change in the agricultural sector.
Shaping Africa’s agricultural landscape
The agricultural technology (AgTech) industry is currently valued at $24.3 billion and is projected to reach $50 billion by 2030. As EOUF forges ahead with its mission to revolutionize Africa’s agricultural industry, it is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the continent’s future.
By embracing cutting-edge technologies and sustainable farming practices, EOUF aims to not only address immediate food security concerns but also pave the way for a more prosperous and resilient agricultural sector in Africa.
Eight Orbit Urban Farms’ commitment to leveraging technology and innovation to tackle Africa’s food security challenges marks a significant step forward in the continent’s agricultural landscape. With the potential to transform traditional farming practices and foster economic growth, EOUF’s initiatives hold promise for a brighter, more sustainable future for Africa’s agricultural sector.
