Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, and Brandenburg University of Applied Sciences (THB)-Germany have discussed incorporating biodigesters into smart agriculture systems in an effort to provide affordable solutions for farmers. From 12th to 14th November 2024, the University hosted THB’s Prof. Dietmar Wikarski and his Master’s students, for a workshop on developing a module that will enhance MMUST’s existing biodigester systems. The module is aimed at integrating the Internet of Things (IoT) into collecting real-time data on critical parameters such as weather, pH levels, and temperatures. The teams, led by Prof. Alice Ndiema, paid a courtesy call to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Solomon Shibairo, before proceeding to the workshop that drew participants from the School of Agriculture, Veterinary Sciences and Technology(SAVET), School of Computing and Informatics (SCI), as well as School of Engineering and Built Environment (SEBE).
Speaking during the courtesy call Prof. Shibairo, underscored MMUST’s role in driving Kenya’s smart agriculture initiatives and food security by setting a stage for further advancements in agricultural technology. “This collaborative project on agriculture is a good idea and as a University, we are committed towards ensuring that we enhance technology in order to lower the cost of food production. We are determined to maximize the utilization of our available resources to achieve this goal,” he noted.
The Vice Chancellor-Prof Shibairo Solomon (left) receives a gift from Prof. Dietmar Wikarski.
Reflecting on the path forward, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation)- Prof Charles Mutai, reaffirmed MMUST’s commitment to fostering further growth through collaborations. He stated that these partnerships will provide an inclusive and interactive environment for both students and staff to delve more into research and innovations, saying that this will enhance agricultural and renewable energy technology. "MMUST is determined to build on more innovations through collaboration and partnerships. I encourage everyone to fully seize this opportunity for impactful results and make the best possible outcomes," he added.
Deputy Vice Chancellor (Planning, Research and Innovation), Prof. Charles Mutai, gives his remarks during a meeting at his office.
Similarly, Prof. Ndiema expressed heartfelt appreciation to the University Management for its unwavering support in advancing innovation, and highlighted the significance of integrating biodigesters with greenhouse systems and weather stations to create a holistic and data-driven approach to farming. “By connecting these systems, MMUST aims to promote organic farming through the use of bio-slurry as a nutrient-rich fertilizer which can improve vegetable yields, enhance livestock feed, and balance soil nutrients, offering farmers a cost-effective and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers,” she said.
Prof Alice Ndiema gives her presentation at the workshop.
Prof. Wikarski reiterated that they are committed to give the best output of the innovation collaboration through extensive and intensive research for smart agriculture. "Our goal is to produce affordable agricultural solutions for farmers, which will help them to lower production costs. We are dedicated to developing a biodigester with a cheaper design and materials, making it accessible and affordable for everyone," he remarked.
Notably, the Dean-SAVET, Prof. Vitalis Ogema, was hopeful that the module created will enable efficient digital monitoring. “Data will be displayed on a digitized platform and securely stored in a centralized database, hence digitizing the biodigester,” he stated.
A section of participants follows keenly during the workshop.
Other participants present at the workshop included; Prof. Gladys Mengich, Prof. Jasper Ondulo, Dean-SCI, Dr. Daniel Otanga and Dr. Emmanuel Osore. The presentations by students from both the institutions aimed to enrich the module by infusing IoT tools tailored to smart agriculture.
This initiative is a step forward in MMUST's commitment to applying cutting-edge technologies for sustainable development. By lowering production costs and increasing agricultural efficiency, the project envisions a transformative impact on Kenya’s agricultural sector. Through the IoT-enhanced biodigester and its application in smart agriculture, MMUST and its collaborators are fostering an ecosystem that supports local farmers and contributes to national food security.
By Steven Omondi
Photos by Joshua Chiro
