Smart Farming: Merging AI with Indigenous Knowledge for Food Security
Researchers at the Central University of Technology, Free State (CUT) are pioneering the integration of Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies with Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS). Flagship initiatives such as ML-CROP and ITIKI (Integration of Indigenous and Scientific Knowledge for Drought Prediction) utilise Machine Learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and satellite imagery alongside traditional ecological wisdom.
Led by experts including Prof. Muthoni Masinde, this applied research directly assists small-scale farmers in optimising crop production, predicting climate impacts, and ensuring regional food security, thereby bridging the gap between advanced technological innovation and ancestral agricultural practices.
Strategic Alignment
Strategic Goal 2
Innovative and Industry-Relevant Programmes: Producing work-ready graduates, innovators, and entrepreneurs through applied, solution-driven research.
UoT Mandate
This project directly fulfils the University of Technology mandate through Applied Research, a strong STEM Focus, and the cultivation of a dynamic Innovation Eco-system that addresses real-world societal challenges.
Project Partners and Impact
Measurable Outcomes
- Successful integration of machine learning and satellite imagery with indigenous drought-forecasting techniques.
- Direct delivery of timely, accurate climate and crop forecasts to small-scale farmers via accessible mobile technology.
- Enhanced regional food security and agricultural resilience in the face of escalating climate change impacts.
Research Leadership
Centre for Sustainable Smart Cities (CSSC) and Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and Information Technology
Collaboration Partners
Small-scale farming communities, local agricultural cooperatives, and strategic academic partners including the University of the Free State and UKZN.
Get Involved
Join CUT in advancing sustainable agriculture and food security. Explore how your organisation can partner with us on applied research, technology transfer, and community-engaged innovation initiatives.
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