Safaricom in partnership with a global NGO Opportunity International, has launched an AI chatbot designed for smallholder farmers in underserved communities across Kenya.
A chatbot is a computer programme that simulates a conversation with human end users.
The initiative, dubbed FarmerAI, aims to support up to 1,000 potato farmers by providing instant advice on key issues such as weather patterns, fertiliser use, pest management, and market prices, with the initial pilot programme set to run until August.
Farmers will access the chatbot through platforms such as SMS and WhatsApp, using Safaricom's DigiFarm platform to facilitate seamless interaction, with the aim of making vital agricultural information more accessible, actionable, and equitable.
“AI is already transforming the world around us, but the impact this technology can have on underserved communities is truly impactful. Above all, this partnership underscores Opportunity International’s and DigiFarm’s shared mission to uplift smallholder farmers," said Greg Nelson, chief technology officer, at Opportunity International.
The pilot will operate under a co-branded model with both DigiFarm and Opportunity International, underlining the commitment of both organisations to strengthening Kenya's agricultural sector.
“Our mission at Safaricom is to become Africa’s leading purpose-led technology company by 2030. In line with this, we are committed to bringing technological solutions that positively impact our customers and stakeholders” Safaricom CEO, Peter Ndegwa said.
“FarmerAI is the first solution we are introducing to farmers that enables them to interact with AI and experience its power firsthand. One of the biggest challenges smallholder farmers face is accessing the right information at the right time—such as what to plant when to plant, and weather advisories ,” he added.
This AI chatbot will provide verifiable, real-time agricultural insights to support informed decision-making.
Data by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) shows that between 2019 and 2023, Kenya produced 10.2 million tonnes of potatoes valued at Sh288 billion, as farmers dedicated more land to planting the staple crop.
KNBS data further showed that the land under potato farming was at its highest in 2023 when farmers planted the crop on 239,336 hectares, up from planting the crop on 231,525 hectares the previous year, and from a low of 204,555 hectares in 2020.
