By Esther Kihang’ah
After a successful first round of the Kenya Drone Business Competition in October 2022, more than 100 youth are putting their newly acquired drone technology business skills to use, and Embassy Nairobi is training 100 more. This year’s participants will work on solutions to food insecurity using precision agriculture, livestock management, artificial intelligence, and food delivery.
“These entrepreneurs have shown their passion for solving critical problems like climate change and food insecurity. With the right tools and support, these techies will come up with innovative solutions that will make a positive impact in their communities and beyond,” said Eno Umoh, implementing partner and co-founder of the Global Air Drone Academy, the implementing partner for this program.
At the end of the five-month program, three winners of the pitching competition will receive a full scholarship to a local drone training academy, a remote pilot’s license, and mapping software.
Through the use of drone technology farmers can better monitor and manage their crops, leading to improved yields and reduced use of pesticides and water. This will not only help increase food security in Kenya, but contribute to global efforts to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The drone competition also encourages young Kenyans to develop innovative solutions in an industry with tremendous growth potential. By working with local organizations and government institutions in Kenya, Embassy Nairobi is building stronger and more sustainable partnerships to drive change.
Esther Kihang’ah is the American Spaces country director at Embassy Nairobi.
