DigiFarm has been recognized for demonstrating notable collaboration between stakeholders, demonstrating how old technology can be used to improve the lives. The Safaricom backed platform has been awarded the Best Mobile Innovation for Emerging Markets in this year’s Global Mobile Awards (GLOMO).
The platform is tailored for smallholder farmers to access a variety of services such as discounted inputs, advice on farming practices and financing. All from a 2G enabled mobile phone. DigiFarm is a text-based platform where farmers register on the platform and record details about the size of their farms and the nature of their farming activities This information is then used to ensure that farmers receive support relevant to their specific farming activities. Once registered on the platform, farmers have access via mobile phone to a host of agricultural and financial services that the ecosystem offers.
Over 1 million farmers have subscribed to the platform with more than 300,000 of whom are 30-day active customers. DigiFarm has also opened 144 depots around the country to enable farmer’s access to quality inputs.
“This recognition is a true reflection of our dedication to our Transforming Lives purpose. We are constantly finding ways to leverage the power of mobile technology to solve the challenges that communities face every day. Through DigiFarm we want to empower millions of smallholder farmers by giving them the right tools for economic growth, said Michael Joseph, CEO, Safaricom
In April 2018, DigiFarm emerged winner of the developing world technology category in Fast Company‘s 2018 World-Changing Ideas Awards and was also recognized as the most innovative service at the inaugural East Africa Com Awards and emerged top of the Shared Value Category in the Loeries Awards held in Durban, South Africa. The platform was also recognized as the best digital agricultural platform in the Digital Inclusions Awards.
