Kenya will harness satellite technology and artificial intelligence to predict crop yield and strengthen food security under a new partnership signed on Monday with France during the African Forward Summit at the University of Nairobi.

Speaking during the ceremony, Director of the Directorate of Resource Surveys and Remote Sensing (DRSRS), Dr Moses Akali said that the memorandum of understanding between DRSRS and France’s DIGINOVE SAS will transform the country’s early warning systems using the TeleCense platform.

“This agreement represents a shared commitment to using science, technology and innovation to address food security under a changing climate,” Akali explained.

Akali reaffirmed the government’s commitment to innovation, digital transformation and food security. He noted that Jubilee manifesto has created an environment where such partnerships would flourish.

He also acknowledged the presence of French President Emmanuel Macron at the Summit – a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s growing role as a regional hub for technology and agricultural innovation.

Michel Benet, Chair of DIGINOVE hailed the partnership as a step toward stronger collaboration in food security. He noted that the partnership will generate timely, accurate and spatially detailed information on crop conditions, acreage and yields – data critical for national planning, drought preparedness and protecting vulnerable communities.

Beyond technology deployment, the collaboration places strong emphasis on knowledge transfer, capacity building and long-term sustainability.

“Our objective is not only to implement technology but also to institutionalise innovation within national systems for lasting impact,” Akali added.

DRSRS, which is domiciled in the office of the president, has served Kenya for decades through geospatial science, remote sensing and environmental monitoring.

DRSRS official, Vincent Imala, said the new deal marks a major step toward modernizing crop forecasting across the country and the wider region.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Jacqueline Adyang