Innovative Remote-Controlled Irrigation System Offers New Hope for Rwandan Farmers
A groundbreaking remote-controlled robotic irrigation system is being developed to assist Rwandan farmers in managing the challenges posed by dry spells. Pierre Claver Ntigurirwa, an electronic engineer at Smart Hub Rwanda, has been at the forefront of this innovation. The system, which allows farmers to irrigate their fields using a mobile phone or computer, recently gained recognition as the second runner-up in the mechanisation innovation category at the 18th National Agriculture Show held at the Mulindi/Gasabo Showground.
How the System Works
The remote robotic irrigation system represents an advanced approach to crop watering, integrating robotics, sensors, and communication technologies. It ensures precise water delivery to crops and can be operated from any location, eliminating the need for farmers to be physically present in the fields. This technology offers significant advantages, especially in regions where water scarcity and unpredictable weather patterns are common.
The system connects to a water reservoir and is linked to a mobile application. Users can schedule irrigation on specific days and times, both in the morning and afternoon. Additionally, it features a rain detection mechanism that halts irrigation when it rains. The app also automatically detects dry spells, allowing for timely interventions.
Key Components and Features
The system incorporates various types of sensors to monitor different environmental factors. Soil moisture sensors measure the water levels in the soil, while weather sensors track rainfall, temperature, humidity, and wind conditions. Crop sensors assess the water requirements of specific crops. These sensors transmit real-time data to a central software platform accessible via computer or mobile device.
Using algorithms or artificial intelligence, the system determines the optimal time, location, and amount of irrigation needed. Farmers or technicians can monitor and control the system remotely. For instance, if a farmer receives an alert that Zone B is dry, they can command the robotic unit to navigate to that area and irrigate it precisely with just a few taps on their device.
Pilot Testing and Additional Innovations
Ntigurirwa mentioned that a greenhouse in Kibagabaga is currently being used to pilot the system before it is rolled out on a larger scale. In addition to the irrigation system, he has developed another machine equipped with sensors to measure soil temperature, humidity, and fertiliser requirements. This comprehensive toolkit provides farmers with the necessary tools for modern farming practices.
Positive Reception from Farmers
Olive Mutimanama, a farmer from Rulindo District, welcomed the innovation. Her cooperative, consisting of 245 members, has already implemented a solar-powered dam sheet irrigation system. She believes that the remote irrigation system would be a significant boost for her community. "Having a remote irrigation system would be a major boost. Women, in particular, juggle many responsibilities. This system allows me to irrigate even when I’m at the market, attending a training, or far from the farm," she said.
Government Initiatives and Future Goals
According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the area under irrigation grew to 71,585 hectares by 2023, with the percentage of farmers using irrigation doubling from 5% to 10%. Under the Fifth Strategic Plan for Agriculture Transformation (PSTA 5) for 2024–2029, Rwanda aims to irrigate all 600,000 hectares of irrigable land by 2050. In the medium term, the plan targets increasing irrigated land to 132,171 hectares and rehabilitating 14,000 hectares. At least 30% of small-scale irrigation technologies will benefit women-headed households.
Rwanda has also outlined five major investment opportunities in agriculture worth $785 million. These initiatives align with the country’s transformation goals, focusing on boosting productivity, expanding irrigation, creating jobs, and building resilient and sustainable food systems.
Post a Comment