Tunisia is set to launch the pilot of a project aimed at using drones in agriculture. This is will take place on Thursday [26/07/2018] at a ceremony in Tunis.
The project's aim is to introduce the usage of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in the Sidi Bouzid region.
The key areas that the pilot will focus on is how drones can be used in preparation, supervision and evaluation processes.
It is anticipated that the introduction of drones in agriculture will enable or speed up the execution of certain activities.
“The introduction of drones in project management will enable data collection, including monitoring of agricultural production, biodiversity, effects of climate change and management of natural resources.”
According to the press release, “more than 30 young Tunisians will benefit from the training course". This will be "through technology transfer related to the use and maintenance of drones."
Above all, the African Development Bank is looking at an increase in efficiency and effectiveness in operations.
“These [drone] technologies will streamline business processes related to the management of development project cycle, in order to promote more efficiency and effectiveness,” noted the AfDB.
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This undertaking is going to be financed by a loan from KOAFEC and the fundings will be administered by the African Development Bank.
“The pilot project on the use of UAVs in the preparation, supervision and evaluation phases of agricultural development projects in the Sidi Bouzid region of central Tunisia will be financed by a grant from the Korea-Africa Economic Cooperation (KOAFEC), administered by the African Development Bank" - AfDB
More support will come from the Busan Techno Park [in Korean]. It will "share their experience and know-how with Tunisia."
“Busan Techno Park, an agency affiliated with the Busan Metropolitan City, has proven experience in the development and use of drones for data collection and processing," read the press release.
The Busan Techno Park was launched in 1999 with the aim of “building a foundation for local technology innovation based on industrial-academic cooperation.”
Officials from the Tunisian government, South Korea, and AfDB will grace the event.
“The Launching Ceremony will be attended by Tunisia’s Minister of Development and International Cooperation and Minister of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Fisheries,” read the press release.
“The Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, Vice Mayor of Busan Metropolitan City, and the Director General of the Regional Office of the African Development Bank for North Africa will also participate in the event.”