Listed agribusiness company Kakuzi Plc is expanding the use of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and other digital technologies across its operations as it seeks to improve efficiency, strengthen farm productivity and adapt to changing weather patterns.
The company has established a Digital Agricultural Transformation Department to coordinate the adoption and application of agricultural technology across its farming and processing operations.
Kakuzi Managing Director Chris Flowers said the new department, headed by a Digital Agricultural Transformation Manager, will drive the adoption of technologies designed to improve farm management, decision-making and overall operational performance.
“The Kakuzi Ag-Tech journey is firmly on course and is anchored on several sustainability initiatives and resilient agronomy practices that we continue to embed across all operations,” Flowers said.
He said increasing uncertainty in traditional weather patterns was making it necessary for the agricultural sector to adopt new technologies capable of improving resilience and productivity.
“As we face more and more uncertainty and unpredictability in our traditional climatic patterns, it is essential that agriculture adapts and adopts new technology,” Flowers said.
The move positions Kakuzi among Kenyan agricultural companies increasingly turning to digital tools to address challenges linked to climate change, rising production costs and the need for greater efficiency.
The company is deploying AI, machine learning and data analytics to improve decision-making across its operations, with technology being used to generate and analyse information that can support farming and processing activities.
At its macadamia processing plant, Kakuzi has installed an AI-powered intelligent optical sorting system to automate the grading of macadamia nuts.
The system is designed to improve the accuracy and efficiency of sorting while enhancing the quality and consistency of processed macadamia products.
The company is also introducing agricultural technology in its fields as part of efforts to improve farm management and productivity.
Kakuzi has further deployed drone-based security surveillance systems, adding another layer of technology to its agricultural operations.
The increased use of digital technology comes as farmers face growing pressure to adapt to unpredictable rainfall patterns, changing temperatures and other climate-related challenges.
For large-scale agricultural producers, technology can provide access to real-time information and automated systems that support better decisions on farm operations, crop management and processing.
Kakuzi said its Ag-Tech programme forms part of a broader sustainability and climate-smart agriculture strategy aimed at strengthening the resilience of its operations.
The company is seeking to integrate technology with sustainable farming practices as it responds to changing climatic conditions while maintaining productivity and product quality.
The expansion of digital agriculture also reflects the growing role of AI in Kenya’s farming sector, where businesses are increasingly exploring technology to address challenges ranging from crop monitoring and weather forecasting to processing, security and supply-chain management.
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