Small farmers play a vital role in the agricultural sector and their contribution to the economy is significant. However, they often face many challenges, such as a lack of access to information and technology, which hinder their productivity. To address these challenges, SMAJAYU has launched the precision agriculture system.

Precision agriculture

An agricultural management approach called "precision agriculture" is centered on monitoring, measuring, and acting in response to crop variability both within and between fields. Precision agriculture aims to optimize returns on inputs by reducing waste, improving efficiency, and maximizing yield. Farmers are increasingly using precision agriculture technologies as a means of enhancing productivity and maximizing profit.

What is a precision agriculture system?

Precision agriculture (PA) is an agricultural management approach that uses information technology (IT) to gather, store, analyze, and deliver precise information about the state of crops and the soil in which they are grown. This information is then used to make management decisions that can improve crop yield and water use efficiency.

A new tool that helps farmers enhance crop yields is the "precision agricultural system." This system uses sensors to collect data about the conditions of the crops and then sends this information to a computer. The computer then analyzes the data and creates a map of the field.

How does precision agriculture work?

The use of GPS systems and other precision agriculture equipment allows farmers to target their crops more precisely. This technology uses sensors and computers to collect data about the environment and the crops and then uses this data to manage irrigation, fertilization, and other aspects of crop production.

The goal of precision agriculture research is to define a decision support system for whole farm management with the use of site-specific information technology.

The different types of precision agriculture

 There are many different types of precision agriculture systems, each with its strengths and weaknesses.

  • GPS guidance system

In agriculture, vehicle guidance systems are used to improve the efficiency of farm operations and the quality of the end product. The use of guidance systems can result in fewer passes over the field, reduced compaction, improved crop yield, and decreased fuel usage.  

By using GPS, farmers can more accurately map their fields, plan their plantings, and apply fertilizers and pesticides more efficiently. This technology assists users in a variety of tasks, from navigation to agricultural applications

  • Variable rate application systems

A variable rate application system is any system that can automatically change the rate at which it applies a material to a target based on conditions that are measured or estimated in real-time. Common examples include systems that vary the application rate of fertilizer or pesticide based on the density of the crop canopy or the speed of the sprayer.

The main advantage of using a variable rate application system is that it allows farmers to apply different amounts of fertilizer to different areas of their field. This can help maximize crop yields and minimize fertilizer costs. However, there are some disadvantages to using a variable rate application system, including the potential for uneven fertilizer application and the need for more frequent calibration.

  • Soil sensors

Soil sensors are devices that measure the physical and chemical properties of soil. They're important because they help farmers manage their crops and irrigation systems more efficiently. There are many different types of soil sensors, but they all work by measuring some combination of temperature, moisture, pH, and nutrient levels. By collecting data from these sensors, farmers can make more informed decisions about irrigation, fertilization, and crop production.

Today, farmers are using cutting-edge technology to increase yields and produce healthier crops. One of the tools they are using is soil sensors.

The advantages of the precision agriculture system

The advantages of the precision agriculture system are many and varied. Perhaps most significantly, it has the potential to greatly improve yields and decrease input costs for farmers.

Additionally, the system can help farmers to more accurately target their management practices, reduce their environmental impact, and improve their overall efficiency.

  • Increased yield

Precision agriculture systems are becoming increasingly popular among farmers as they look for ways to improve their yields. The use of precision agriculture systems can help farmers to increase their yields by as much as 20 percent. The systems help farmers to better manage their crops and soil, and to make more efficient use of inputs such as water and fertilizer.

  • Improved soil health

The use of an agricultural system that improves soil health has many benefits for farmers and the environment. This system can help to improve water and nutrient retention in the soil, reduce soil erosion, and improve crop yields. In addition, this system can help to sequester carbon in the soil, which can help to mitigate climate change.

  • Water conservation

Modern farmers have to be very precise and efficient with their water usage to be successful. With the help of a precision agriculture system, they can be. This system can help them map their field and see exactly where their irrigation is needed most.

SMAJAYU: The Future of Farming

The SMAJAYU precision agriculture system is a complete package that includes a software application, a mobile app, and a hardware device. It is designed to help small farmers in Africa to improve their yields and incomes.

The system uses sensors and software to gather data about soil conditions, weather, and crop health, and then uses this information to guide farmers in real time about when and how to best apply inputs.

Final word

Precision agriculture systems is an umbrella term for a variety of new technologies and management practices that are being used in agriculture to increase yields, decrease inputs costs, and/or improve environmental stewardship. While there is no single definition of precision agriculture, the term generally refers to the use of information and communication technologies to manage production inputs.