Online Reporter
Online Reporter
President Mnangagwa will this morning commission Zimbabwe’s first-ever Artificial Intelligence-powered grain silos in Kwekwe, Midlands Province.
The milestone development is part of the Second Republic’s broader initiatives to embrace appropriate technologies across the economy’s sectors, with agriculture being one of the major pillars.
Kwekwe’s 56 000-tonne facility, featuring seven state-of-the-art silos, received its first wheat grain delivery yesterday evening.
Unlike traditional storage units, the new silos are equipped with advanced technologies that integrate artificial intelligence (AI), internet of things (IoT) sensors and automated environmental regulation.
At the core of the system are embedded IoT sensors that continuously monitor temperature, humidity, grain moisture and carbon dioxide levels, key indicators of spoilage or pest activity on the grain.
Real-time data enables immediate environmental adjustments to preserve grain quality over extended periods. Ventilation fans and automated airflow systems eliminate excess moisture, while dehumidifiers or heaters can be triggered in response to changing weather patterns or internal conditions.
This dynamic response helps prevent mould, decay and pest infestation. AI functions as the system’s brain, analysing data to pre-empt potential issues, recommending optimal storage practices and optimising energy use by activating climate controls only when necessary.
Upon grain delivery, the facility can automatically assess quality metrics like moisture content and direct produce to the appropriate storage compartment.
The new silos are expected to significantly reduce post-harvest losses, improve grain quality, and boost farmer incomes.
The Kwekwe depot is the first of 14 facilities undergoing modernisation and expansion in the country.
Silo construction is underway at various GMB depots across the country, including Kwekwe, Mhangura, Timber Mills, Mutare, Rutenga, Lupane, and Mvurwi.
Additional sites, such as Plumtree, Masvingo, and Gokwe, are also planned for future construction.
