Meknes: Technology is unlocking promising prospects for revolutionizing water management, a vital resource that underpins all forms of life, AbdulHakim Elwaer, Assistant Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, said in Meknes on Wednesday.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, speaking at the 5th Annual Ministerial Conference of the AAA (Adaptation of African Agriculture) initiative, held on the sidelines of the 17th International Agricultural Show in Morocco (SIAM), Elwaer stressed that artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer a concept of the future, but a powerful tool driving major transformations in the field of water. He emphasized that AI provides the strength and insight needed to face current challenges in this sector.
Referring to innovative solutions for adapting to water-related challenges, the UN official pointed out the intersection of technology and sustainability. AI is profoundly transforming agriculture, not just through automation but by making farming more efficient, resilient, and environmentally-friendly.
Elwaer provided examples of AI applications in the water sector, including real-time monitoring of water quality for instant detection of pollution, which helps protect public health and ecosystems. AI-powered systems can analyze sensor data to identify pollutants, providing essential insights into water quality.
Furthermore, AI-based technologies can assist farmers in improving crop productivity through precision farming, optimizing the use of water, fertilizers, and pesticides. Machine learning models can predict weather systems, helping small farmers prepare for droughts or heavy rainfall.
By adopting AI-based solutions, Africa can enhance its food security, address climate challenges, and enable farmers to make informed decisions. Elwaer noted that such innovations could significantly impact the continent’s agricultural landscape.
Professor Shenggen Fan, Dean of the Academy of Global Food Economics and Policy at China Agricultural University, highlighted the need for strong national governance systems to achieve food system transition goals. He advocated for a unified national coordination mechanism among ministries and institutions, emphasizing the cross-cutting nature of food systems.
The conference, themed ‘Agroforestry and climate resilience: an African vision for food security and sustainable development,’ gathered African Ministers of Agriculture and a diverse group of stakeholders, including financial and technical institutions, development partners, private sector representatives, researchers, development institutes, academics, and scientists.