Freshmarte FarmBot

Nigeria

Freshmarte FarmBot is a farm virtual assistant that provides data-driven support services on farm operations and market to smallholders via SMS and Facebook Messenger. The pilot program is conducted in partnership with Oyo State Agricultural Development Programme (OYSADEP) and the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, impacting more than 20,000 smallholders.

Project Stage

Proof of Concept

Implementation time

1 - 6 months

Last update: October 05, 2023

Overview Contributors

Challenge

Smallholders need access to actionable information to make better decisions on their farm operations, boost production, and increase profitability. Limited access to such information hinders their productivity and income.

Description

Freshmarte FarmBot leverages machine learning algorithms, real-time weather data, and agronomic models to provide smallholders with quality decisions in areas like planting, watering, crop monitoring, disease forecasting, and market access. It uses SMS and Facebook Messenger, making it accessible to smallholders with basic mobile phones.

SDGs

Outcomes

The rate of engagement and adoption by 20,000 smallholders in just two months was very positive. The solution helped farmers make better decisions on their daily operations. The pilot program is set to gather further evidence on per capita increase in farm production and farmers' income.