In the heart of the Near East and North Africa (NENA) region, a quiet revolution is taking root, one that promises to reshape the agricultural landscape and bolster the resilience of smallholder farmers. A recent study, led by Nael Thaher from The University of Jordan and published in the Emirates Journal of Food and Agriculture (translated as “مجلة الإمارات للطعام والزراعة”), sheds light on the drivers and barriers of digital farming adoption among smallholder farmers in this region.
The study, which conducted a regional pilot survey across three NENA countries, reveals a compelling narrative of transformation and challenge. Farmers who have embraced digital technologies report significant improvements in productivity, efficiency, and cost reduction. “The use of drones and satellite imagery has optimized the use of fertilizers, water, and other inputs,” Thaher explains. “Mobile apps and online marketplaces have facilitated access to information, connected farmers with buyers, and provided access to financial services.”
These digital tools are not just enhancing farm management; they are fostering connections and opening up new markets. For instance, farmers can now access real-time weather data, market prices, and expert advice, all from their smartphones. This democratization of information is leveling the playing field and empowering farmers to make informed decisions.
However, the journey towards digital agriculture is not without its hurdles. The study highlights several barriers that farmers face, including inadequate digital infrastructure and services, insufficient digital skills, and concerns about data protection and confidentiality. “These challenges are significant, but not insurmountable,” Thaher notes. “Addressing them requires a concerted effort from policymakers, technology providers, and agricultural stakeholders.”
The study’s findings underscore the need for tailored programs that can make digital agriculture more accessible and beneficial for smallholder farmers. By bridging the digital divide, we can unlock the full potential of digital agriculture and drive meaningful transformation within the sector.
Moreover, the study presents diverse pathways through which digital agriculture can tackle key issues within farming systems and contribute to shifts in social norms and behaviors. This is particularly relevant in the NENA region, where the digital agriculture landscape is still evolving.
As we look to the future, the insights from this study can guide the development of policies and programs that support the adoption of digital technologies in agriculture. By doing so, we can enhance the resilience of farming communities, boost agricultural productivity, and contribute to food security in the region.
In the words of Thaher, “The future of agriculture is digital, and it’s happening now. It’s time we all get on board.” The study, published in the Emirates Journal of Food and Agriculture, serves as a clarion call for action, urging stakeholders to come together and shape a future where digital agriculture is accessible, beneficial, and transformative for all.