Kenyans urged to embrace AI in Agriculture to boost food security

Mount Kenya University (MKU) Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi has called on Kenyans to adopt Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture to help address food shortages.

Speaking during an interdisciplinary conference at the MKU Nakuru campus on Thursday, Prof. Jaganyi said technology is the most reliable tool to solve modern challenges.

“We are living in a time of unprecedented change. From precision agriculture that optimises crop yields with minimal wastage, to telemedicine, renewable energy and sustainable business models. Technology is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for building a sustainable future,” he said.

The two-day conference, themed “Emerging Technologies and Sustainable Practices: Innovation in Agriculture, Health, Renewable Energy and Business Practices,” brought together scholars from across East Africa to share research and innovations.

Chief guest Dr. David Watene, Director of Education at the State Department of University Education, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting research and innovation.

“We have implemented policies to strengthen collaborations between universities, industries and government institutions,” he said.

The hybrid event featured presentations on Agri-Tech, climate-smart agriculture, food security and resilience in livestock and animal health systems. Scholars also explored the links between human, animal and environmental health, while student innovators showcased projects already being tested in the market.

MKU Nakuru Campus Director Dr. Jacqueline Omuya said the institution is committed to driving innovation that transforms communities. 

“At MKU, we embrace a culture where ideas meet action, where research fuels innovation and collaborations spark lasting solutions,” she noted.

Researcher Dr. Allan Mweke added that the university’s scholars are developing groundbreaking innovations showcased annually at the MKU Research Conference and similar forums.

Prof. Jaganyi praised the event as a catalyst for change. 

“Such conferences create platforms for inter-disciplinary collaborations that generate solutions no single field could achieve alone,” he said.

The conference was hosted at the newly named Infinite Quest Auditorium, following a campus-wide competition. Business management student Hamia Adhiambo Ouma won the naming challenge and was awarded Sh100,000 by MKU founder Prof. Simon Gicharu. She plans to invest the prize in her future and in community projects in Nyando constituency, Kisumu County.

Dr. Omuya said the milestone reflects the university’s commitment to modern infrastructure, nurturing student talent, and fostering community engagement.