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General or Specific? Retrofitting AI and IoT-Enabled Hydroponic Grow Tents for Use in Different Climates Across Rural Africa | IEEE Conference Publication | IEEE Xplore

General or Specific? Retrofitting AI and IoT-Enabled Hydroponic Grow Tents for Use in Different Climates Across Rural Africa


Abstract:

Climate change threatens African subsistence farming with erratic rainfall, droughts, and seasonal shifts causing devastating crop failures. Hydroponic farming, often rec...Show More

Abstract:

Climate change threatens African subsistence farming with erratic rainfall, droughts, and seasonal shifts causing devastating crop failures. Hydroponic farming, often recommended to mitigate these threats, requires constant monitoring and knowledge, which can be overwhelming for first-time growers. Research has explored using the Internet of Things (IoT) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to automate and monitor hydroponic systems. Still, few studies have tested these systems in the field with farmers. Our previous work involved an eight-month deployment of an AI and IoT-enabled hydroponic system with rural subsistence farmers in South Africa. We conducted focus groups and observed the hydroponic systems using a qualitative approach. This paper discusses lessons learned from deploying the system in Namibia. We found that generalized AI models are unlikely to succeed due to differences in water quality, climate, participant readiness, and internet connectivity. Therefore, AI and IoT systems for rural Africa must be tailor-made to be functional and effective for crop growth.
Date of Conference: 23-25 July 2024
Date Added to IEEE Xplore: 04 December 2024
ISBN Information:
Conference Location: Windhoek, Namibia

References

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