The Corteva™ FarmFundi app
The Corteva™ FarmFundi app provides a digital and pest identification guide for farmers.
As of the 14th of September, Farmers in Kenya will now be able to access agronomic advice on weeds, diseases and pest control, following the launch of an application that links them to agricultural experts from Corteva Agriscience.
The mobile application, has been developed in partnership with Plantix known as Corteva™ FarmFundi, . It provides an easy-to-use, digital pest and disease identification guide for farmers. Moreover they have access to local agronomists for treatment recommendations via e-mail or the web links provided. Corteva’s crop scientists are available for consultation when any threats are detected on the app.
The team
“Researchers estimate that invasive species alone cost Africa’s agricultural sector $74.3 billion each year. This compounded by an approximate $21.5 billion worth of crop losses inflicted by insects and other pests,” said Mr Charles Mutema. He is the Marketing Manager Corteva Agriscience Kenya. “Our collaboration with Plantix allows us to combine the very best of innovative mobile farming technology. In addition to the keen insights and vast expertise of our technical teams; helping to mitigate potential impacts to livelihoods and food security.”
Mr Mutema further stated that the most critical part of managing crop failure is correctly identifying the cause.
How to get the app
The app is available to farmers at no cost in English, Afrikaans, Swahili, French and Arabic. These are available on from the Apple® iOS and Google Android™ app stores.
The platform empowers farmers to upload or scan pictures, along with a short description of symptoms and accompanying notes, enabling timeous risk management and prevention. Experts are also able to update and transfer the latest information on new, emerging pests and trends in real time.
While internet access is required for downloading the app as well as subsequent updates, farmers can still access essential information offline; an important feature for users who do not have access to a mobile connection while out in the field.
Crop pests are recognised worldwide as a serious challenge to agricultural production and are a real threat to food security, especially in Africa. Farmers report that yields losses experienced due to pests significantly affect net income, whilst undermining other livelihood assets.
Mr Dennis Njenga, a maize and tomato farmer in Juja said the app has assisted him in diagnosing pests and diseases affecting his crops, connecting him to a skilled support system of agronomists for best practice solutions.
With the increasing demand for healthier, quality food, against the backdrop of COVID-19, the Corteva™ FarmFundi app also delivers on Corteva’s sustainability commitments; ensuring progress for generations to come.
About Corteva Agriscience
Corteva Agriscience is a publicly traded, global pure-play agriculture company. They additionally provide farmers around the world with the most complete portfolio in the industry. Further including a balanced and diverse mix of seed, crop protection and digital solutions focused on maximizing productivity to enhance yield and profitability.
About Plantix
Plantix helps millions of farmers secure their livelihood by reducing crop failure and increasing productivity. Through advanced AI to agriculture, Plantix has brought the expertise of international crop scientists into the hands of small farmers. This is especially in rural areas across the globe.