KNUST Researchers make major breakthrough in Agric research

Farmers in Ghana are set to benefit from the Farmsense project. This innovative agricultural initiative aims to help over 20,000 smallholder farmers soon. The goal is to reach one million farmers by 2030.

Farmsense was developed by researchers at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Sesi Technologies, a Ghanaian Agritech company, leads the project. It is funded by Innovate UK through its Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) program, in collaboration with Manchester Metropolitan University.

Ing. Isaac Sesi, CEO of Sesi Technologies, shared insights about Farmsense. The system allows farmers to measure soil nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus. This data helps them make better farming decisions.

“Farmers have farmed blindly for years,” Ing. Sesi said. They often plant unsuitable crops, resulting in low productivity.

The Farmsense system includes a soil sensor and a mobile app. The app analyzes soil data and provides insights to farmers. For those with limited digital skills, a WhatsApp version is available for easier access.

The technology works offline in areas with poor internet connectivity. “Parts of the system function without internet access,” Ing. Sesi explained. With training, even farmers with basic smartphones can use it.

A central analytics platform supports agribusinesses and NGOs working with large farmer groups. This platform helps monitor soil health and make informed recommendations.

Farmsense also addresses environmental issues caused by excessive fertilizer use. “Farmers apply fertilizers without testing their soil,” Ing. Sesi noted. This practice harms the environment and reduces crop yields.

By optimizing soil management, Farmsense reduces the need for new land clearing. This protects forests and biodiversity as well.

Farmsense is a commercial product rolled out through various organizations supporting smallholder farmers. “We work through partners who provide seeds and financing,” said Ing. Isaac Sesi.

Sesi Technologies previously launched GrainMate, a moisture meter for grain farmers in Ghana. Like Farmsense, it started as a university research project at KNUST.

The total investment for Farmsense is £300,000 from Innovate UK under the KTP framework. Partners include Sesi Technologies, KNUST, and Manchester Metropolitan University.

Ing. Sesi called on the Ghanaian government to support local innovation: “Local innovators build technology that fits our context.” With support, these solutions can transform the economy and be exported too.

Farmsense represents an important step for agriculture in Ghana. It combines local research with international collaboration to boost yields and protect the environment while increasing farmer incomes.