This strategic decision positions Rwanda as a gateway for advanced drone technology across the continent. Dronlytics Africa, which owns a US-patented drone technology comparable to NASA's 'Perseverance' rover on Mars, aims to leverage this innovation to address key challenges in Africa, including poverty reduction, food security, and environmental protection.
By utilizing drones to gather critical data, Dronlytics Africa seeks to reduce poverty by lowering production costs through precise data collection. This approach will help farmers increase their cash flows and achieve greater financial stability.
The company's technology is also expected to enhance food security by providing timely and accurate data on crops, enabling farmers to make informed decisions that lead to improved yields.
Furthermore, Dronlytics Africa's technology contributes to environmental protection by enabling the efficient application of agricultural chemicals, thereby minimizing nitrogen runoff and reducing environmental degradation.
Anthony Hall, the Managing Director of Dronlytics Africa Limited, highlighted the capabilities of their drones, which can fly, land, and traverse vast agricultural lands to collect valuable information.
"We are, first and foremost, a data-driven company. Our drone technology, proven in other parts of the world, increases farm productivity when data is understood and applied correctly. Instead of reinventing the wheel, we apply tried-and-tested technology alongside our advanced drone tech to improve yields," he remarked.
Hall also emphasized that the drone technology reduces production costs for farming, ultimately leading to higher cash flows for farmers.
"In terms of enhancing food security, we provide critical data in a timely manner about farmed crops needed to increase yields. Finally, by assessing farms before applying chemicals, we can efficiently apply these chemicals in a way that reduces usage and minimizes nitrogen release into the environment," he added.
Dronlytics Africa is currently in the design phase for its new headquarters, having invited five local firms to tender building designs. Groundbreaking is anticipated towards the end of this year, with drone services expected to commence in the fourth quarter of 2024.
Africa's agricultural sector lags behind regions like India and other emerging economies in technological advancement.
Dronlytics Africa envisions a paradigm shift, positioning Rwanda as a leader in drone technology and a hub for innovation on the continent.
According to the company's management, Rwanda's successful history with drone technology, exemplified by Zipline's achievements, makes it the ideal location for Dronlytics Africa's headquarters.
Théophile Niyitegeka
Source : https://en.igihe.com/news/article/rwanda-to-host-dronlytics-africa-s-new-regional-hq
