Tech in Africa
Songhai Labs is an Innovation accelerator and a knowledge-based platform in Cameroon. The company announced a recent partnership with SatSure, a satellite precision company in the decision analytics space and headquartered in Switzerland. The Open Innovation Platform will narrow on Agriculture and AgTech. The idea is to synergize ideas among experts from different fields and backgrounds in tackling Africa’s complex agricultural problems.
According to FAO publications, agri-tech might just be that elusive solution to the continent’s food security situation. The World Bank also mentions how technology can have a positive impact on the continent’s agricultural sector.
The Open Innovation Platform will provide access to data on their platform which is generated by SatSure. Songhai Labs will then coordinate the new platform while SatSure will provide work on the technical expertise. Their platforms aims to provide AgriTech startups with much-needed agricultural data and information.
Charles Awanda, founder and CEO of Songhai Labs, remains upbeat on the future prospects of the initiative. He mentions how it will “primarily focus on satellite technology applications” within the agricultural sector. This will involve training programs for farmers, research, and agricultural organizations. Their long-term vision is to incorporate business and government partnerships that could benefit the agricultural sector. Sectors targeted are Education, Infrastructure, Utilities, Telecommunications, and Research.”
SatSure has previously worked in Nigeria, where it teamed up with a Singapore company to explore agricultural opportunities. The strategic cooperation with Songhai Labs as they plan to expand beyond Nigeria and explore the continent’s opportunities.
