
An active Player in the game of technology


Brian Baliach


Last week, I attended an AI conference that showcased groundbreaking innovations in Kenya’s North Horr Constituency—a region demonstrating how AI and digital tools can revolutionize communities, even in the most challenging environments.

I had the pleasure of sharing the stage as part of a panel discussion, where we tackled key issues such as Ethics in AI and the risks of overregulation stifling growth. It was an honor to participate alongside respected individuals, including my former lecturer, [Njeri Ngaruiya Ng'ang'a (PhD)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngaruiyanjeri/), who also graced the panel with her insights.

As the CTO at farmbetter, I’m constantly inspired by how technology can empower smallholder farmers to build climate resilience and thrive in the face of adversity.

### Here’s what I learned and why it matters

North Horr, home to the Chalbi Desert and the iconic Koobi Fora archaeological site, is a testament to the power of innovation. Here’s how AI is driving change:

**1\. AI for Climate Resilience:**    
Early warning systems for droughts and floods are helping farmers prepare for extreme weather.

AI-driven soil testing and water mapping are enabling pastoralists to make data-driven decisions about grazing and water sources.

**2\. Majik Water:**  
This initiative uses AI to monitor humidity and temperature, harvesting water from the air to provide clean drinking water for communities.

It's funny how many Kenyans, myself included, hadn't heard of Majik Water. I guess we were all too busy scrolling through Twitter for the latest "maandamano" updates and political drama to notice our local innovations\!

Meanwhile, this project is getting international accolades with a Netflix documentary and mentions in the Washington Post. Now, they’re scaling this technology to manage boreholes—a potential game-changer for arid regions.

**3\. EdTech:**    
Solar-powered tablets (with offline content, which means content is already downloaded on-device) are bringing education to nomadic communities, ensuring children can learn even as families move. Imagine applying this to farmer education—empowering smallholders with on-the-go access to agronomic advice.

### Key Learnings from the AI Conference

The conference reinforced how Africa can lead the AI revolution, especially  if we address critical gaps, i.e:

**1\. AI Infrastructure Gaps:**    
Reliable connectivity and access to digital tools are foundational. Without them, even the best AI solutions can’t reach those who need them most.

**2\. Localized Solutions are Key:**    
AI models must incorporate local variables and contexts. What works in one region may not work in another.

**3\. Data as a Renewable Resource:**    
We need to become better stewards of data, ensuring it’s reusable, shareable, and stored in accessible formats. Open data platforms can unlock immense value for farmers and innovators alike.

**4\. Collaboration is Key:**    
Public-private partnerships, academia, and startups must work together to scale impact. I fondly recall a mantra from my former lecturer, Mrs. Ngaruiya: "African solutions by Africa." Achieving this vision hinges on strong collaboration.

### What This Means for farmbetter 
At farmbetter, we're embracing the transformative power of AI and technology to deliver personalized, digital advice to smallholder farmers right through their mobile phones. The groundbreaking innovations in North Horr highlight the potential of homegrown solutions to address local challenges across the continent.

This inspires us to think bigger and push for uniquely African solutions like expanding early warning systems and leveraging open data.

### Closing Thoughts  
The future of agriculture in Africa lies in innovation, collaboration, and localization.

Thank you to [JKUAT](https://www.jkuat.ac.ke/) \+ [JHUB](https://jhubafrica.com/) for curating the AI conference, a collaborative space between Academia and key Industry players for AI Innovation in Africa.

I'd also like to give a shoutout to my former lecturer, [Njeri Ngaruiya Ng'ang'a (PhD)](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ngaruiyanjeri/), whose guidance and inspiration during my time on campus played a crucial role in shaping my career path and passion for leveraging technology to drive change.  
Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities and build a more resilient future for Africa’s communities.    


Tech and AI Innovation: How AI is Transforming Communities in Kenya


Transitioning from a senior software engineer to building and leading an internal team at Farmbetter marks a significant shift not only in my professional journey but also in the way I communicate my experiences. Unlike my usual technical software engineering blogs, this post delves into the broader scope of leadership, communication, and personal growth. 

Moving from a focus on code to leading a diverse team has expanded my perspective and sharpened my skills. Here, I share insights from this transformative journey, emphasizing the critical areas of communication and leadership that have been pivotal in navigating this new role.

### The Art of Over-communication

In a diverse environment with team members spread across various countries, efficient communication emerges as a key growth area. Over-communication has become not just a best practice but a necessity. Ensuring everyone is on the same page regardless of time zones enhances cooperation and prevents misunderstandings. 

Regular updates, setting clear expectations, and creating open channels for feedback are crucial. These lessons were particularly evident during my involvement in the #AgriPath project.

### The Importance of Mentorship

Navigating the complexities of corporate culture and managing human relationships can be challenging, especially when transitioning into a leadership role. Having a mentor has been invaluable in guiding me through these nuances. A mentor provides insights and advice, helping to navigate difficult situations and offering perspectives that I might not have considered. They serve as a sounding board for ideas and challenges, helping to refine leadership skills and improve interpersonal interactions. 

Having someone to share their experiences and wisdom makes the process less daunting and more structured, ultimately contributing to personal and professional growth. 
For anyone stepping into a new role or looking to excel in their current position, seeking a mentor can be a game-changer in understanding and thriving within a corporate environment.

### Embracing New Challenges

One of the most pivotal moments in my journey with Farmbetter came during the AgriPath workshop, where I faced the daunting task of presenting to high-ranking representatives. At that time, the technological aspects of the project, which Farmbetter leads, were in a challenging state, and our partners were understandably disappointed. Having just joined the team as the lead of tech, I was thrust into a situation that required not only a technical turnaround but also a strong reassurance to our partners.

This experience pushed me far out of my comfort zone, compelling me to hone my public speaking skills and become adept at handling pressure. While the static from the microphone might have been a re-occurring nemesis every time I spoke, it also taught me the importance of perseverance and adaptability in stressful situations. This challenge not only promoted my growth as a communicator but also strengthened my ability to engage meaningfully with diverse stakeholders.

The experience proved that embracing new challenges, even uncomfortable ones, is essential for personal development. Today, I'm not only a better speaker but also more confident in my ability to lead through adversity — static and all :-).

### Looking Forward

In summary, this transition has taught me that effective leadership lies in good communication, empathy, and the ability to adapt. It's the human connections and shared goals that truly drive a project's success. For those considering a similar leap, remember that growth often lies beyond the comfort zone. 

A side note: Interested in diving deeper into our work and seeing some of our research outcomes, do check out [AgriPath's website](https://www.agripath.net/) and [Farmbetter's website](https://www.farmbetter.io/). The journey towards impactful agricultural development is one worth following!

Stay Curious and 'Lettuce' Grow Together!


A Journey of Learning: From Software Engineer to Team Lead

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Tech and AI Innovation: How AI is Transforming Communities in Kenya

A Journey of Learning: From Software Engineer to Team Lead