The European Union has recently formed a partnership with the Gallery of Code, a prominent research, development, and consulting agency, to introduce an innovative smart technology aimed at addressing food storage challenges and increasing food production in Nigeria. This revolutionary model is set to combat the growing issue of food insecurity in the country.
Mr. Oscar Ekponimo, Managing Director of the Gallery of Code and the host institution for the ST ARTS 4 Africa project, has expressed the primary goal of the project, emphasizing its focus on resolving food and water-related issues in Nigeria. Ekponimo highlighted that the EU has been advocating for art-driven innovations, recognizing the practical and impactful nature of innovation when approached artistically.
Out of hundreds of applications across Africa, the EU selected and supported Jubril Baba, a Nigerian, in implementing a yam barn storage model that utilizes AI to monitor climate conditions and air quality, effectively controlling food wastage and tackling food insecurity. The project, which is currently in its initial stages, shows great promise and has garnered recognition, with Jubril being selected to exhibit at a festival in Austria.
Dr. Femi Adeluyi, National Co-ordinator of the National Talent Export Program (NATEP), expressed his enthusiasm for the innovative project, acknowledging its alignment with the Nigerian government’s objectives. He emphasized the potential for collaboration and further enhancement of such initiatives, promoting the export of local talent and products to strengthen the country’s socio-economic status.
Jubril Baba, the beneficiary of the STARTS 4 Africa grant, emphasized the significance of the project, highlighting its basis in traditional models while incorporating advanced technological methods to improve food storage. He highlighted the high rate of yam spoilage due to inadequate storage systems and outlined the adaptability of the prototype yam barn to various weather conditions in different regions of Nigeria.
Patricia Carvalho, a European partner, praised the initiative, emphasizing the potential for artists to leverage AI, science, and technology to address crucial sectors such as food and water in Nigeria. Her support for the project further underscores the significance of this groundbreaking technology.
The introduction of this AI-driven smart agriculture technology in Nigeria signifies a major step towards revolutionizing food storage and combatting food insecurity in the country. As the project progresses, it is poised to set a precedent for collaboration and innovation in addressing critical issues related to food and water security, both in Nigeria and potentially across other countries. The impact of this initiative extends beyond technological advancements, highlighting the value of art, innovation, and collaboration in tackling global challenges.