How Satellites Are Supporting Farmers Across Africa | Catherine Nakalembe | TED
In TED’s enlightening talk, “How Satellites Are Supporting Farmers Across Africa,” Catherine Nakalembe, a satellite food security specialist, sheds light on the critical role of satellite data in agriculture. With many African farmers grappling with environmental challenges—such as droughts, floods, and pests—Nakalembe emphasizes how these factors can devastate livelihoods and food security.
Armed with images from over 8,000 satellites, Nakalembe monitors crop conditions and weather patterns, providing vital information to decision makers in countries like Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. However, she highlights a significant hurdle: existing models often misrepresent the reality of smallholder farming, where varied crop types and intricate farming practices complicate data interpretation.
Nakalembe has pioneered innovative methods, like using GoPro cameras to capture real-time images of fields, allowing for the development of more accurate models tailored to local contexts. Her efforts have proven impactful, such as when satellite data assessed the damage from a devastating flood in Kenya, enabling timely government intervention.
Ultimately, Nakalembe advocates for aligning technology with local needs to enhance agricultural resilience. By harnessing satellite insights, we can not only save money and time but also safeguard livelihoods for countless farmers across Africa.
Watch the video by TED
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Video “How Satellites Are Supporting Farmers Across Africa | Catherine Nakalembe | TED” was uploaded on 11/20/2025 to Youtube Channel TED