Airtel rolls out SMS system to boost farming
What you need to know:
- Airtel Kilimo aids growers in decision-making to boost productivity as well as income
- Farmers can access Airtel Kilimo through USSD on an Airtel line by dialling *760#
Mobile phone operator Airtel Kenya has launched a mobile app to help farmers access information on market prices, advice, research and weather updates.
Dubbed Airtel Kilimo, the system aids growers in decision-making to boost productivity as well as income.
Airtel is seeking to bridge the gap between farmers and middlemen with this system. Some traders exploit growers by offering low prices for quality crops. Poor advisory services by extension officers in the sector especially in rural areas has also been an impediment to productivity.
The new system is expected to drive up data and SMS usage and in turn, increase Airtel’s revenue as it ensures farmers get timely information through the network.
“It is a simple mobile solution for farmers looking to improve the way they manage their crops,” said Airtel Kenya managing director, Mr Shivan Bhargava.
It will focus on farmers engaged in maize, banana, mango, rice and beans farming.
Airtel will work with organisations involved in providing farmers support so as to reach a wider audience and ensure they get accurate information.
Farmers can access Airtel Kilimo through USSD on an Airtel line by dialling *760#, they can also subscribe for SMS alerts at Sh3 per message.
