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Satellite and IoT Technologies Transform Youth Agribusiness
Africa’s future farmers are getting a technology-powered boost as satellite-enabled Internet of Things (IoT) solutions reshape agribusiness training and practice. Leading space solutions provider SES, in collaboration with IoT technology firm Advannotech and other service partners, is working to introduce advanced digital tools to young farmers in South Africa.
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The initiative supports participants in the Enterprising Africa Regional Network (EARN) programme. EARN is a hands-on platform that blends practical farming, business development and innovation. The goal is to equip young people with first-hand experience in data-driven agribusiness. They are then prepared for sustainable careers in modern agriculture.
Climate-Smart Farming Meets Digital Innovation
At the heart of the project is a climate-smart training farm located in Centurion. This is where a three-month proof-of-concept trial has been successfully completed. The programme is designed to address food insecurity. Ultimately, it aims to stimulate economic growth by demonstrating how technology can improve productivity and resource efficiency.
Using IoT sensors connected via satellite and LoRaWAN (Long Range Wide Area Network), the system monitors soil moisture and temperature. It also monitors water levels, and key environmental indicators such as light, carbon dioxide, humidity and air temperature. Data is transmitted through SES satellites to a cloud-based platform, bypassing unreliable cellular networks. Thus, it significantly ensures consistent, real-time insights, even in remote or underserved areas.
From Guesswork to Precision Agriculture
According to Joshua Ngoma, Founder and Chief Enabler of EARN and its youth agribusiness subsidiary African Greeneurs, the impact has been immediate and practical.
“Before these IoT devices were put in the field, everything was guesswork. We used to water three times a day. Now, with real-time information on your phone or computer, you know exactly when to water. That saves power and conserves water, which is a very limited resource,” Ngoma explained.
Previously, inconsistent cellular connectivity made it difficult to monitor growing conditions or respond quickly to climate changes. Satellite connectivity has since transformed operations, enabling automated alerts when conditions fall outside optimal ranges and allowing farmers to act promptly.
Scaling Sustainable, Data-Driven Agriculture
SES says the project demonstrates the broader potential of satellite-enabled IoT to support sustainable agriculture across the continent. Hans Geldenhuys, Director for Africa at SES, noted that the solution empowers farmers to make smarter decisions regardless of location.
“This project shows that satellite-enabled IoT can help farmers make data-driven decisions that improve yields and sustainability, no matter where they are,” he said.
As Africa grapples with climate change, food security challenges and youth unemployment, initiatives like this highlight how space technology and digital innovation can help cultivate a new generation of skilled, resilient and tech-savvy farmers.
