By Kurian Musa
A researcher from Egerton University has secured an international research grant that could help integrate artificial intelligence into farming and strengthen technological innovation in Kenya’s agricultural sector.Dr. Patrick Wamalwa from the Department of Agricultural Engineering has been selected for the African Futures Research Leadership Program (AFRLP) Cohort 6 for 2026, an initiative supported by the Alliance for African Partnership.
The award comes with a research grant of 10,000 US dollars (approximately Sh1.3 million) to support a year-long project focusing on the application of artificial intelligence in agriculture.The program aims to strengthen research capacity among African scholars while fostering collaboration between African universities and international research institutions.
Dr. Wamalwa’s project will explore how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, smart sensors and robotics can be applied to improve agricultural productivity and efficiency in Kenya.The research seeks to demonstrate how digital technologies can support farmers in decision making, crop monitoring and climate risk management.According to the scholar, the study will examine practical ways of integrating data-driven technologies into local farming systems.
The initiative is expected to contribute to improving food production while promoting sustainable agricultural practices.Dr. Wamalwa will work under the mentorship of Prof. Paul Kimurto, the Director of Agroscience Park at Egerton University and a specialist in crop science and drought-resilient agricultural systems.The research will also involve collaboration with Dr. Daniel Uyeh, an Assistant Professor at Michigan State University in the United States.
Dr. Uyeh’s expertise includes biosystems engineering and open-source weather technology systems used in agricultural research.The project will be implemented through a hybrid research program running for about one year.From February to August 2026, the research team will conduct virtual collaboration sessions focusing on project design, data sharing and technical development.Between August and December 2026, Dr. Wamalwa will undertake an in-person research residency at Michigan State University where he will work closely with international scholars in biosystems engineering and agricultural technology.
The project will conclude between January and February 2027 through virtual engagements and final reporting.The grant will also facilitate academic exchange visits for the mentors.Prof. Kimurto is expected to travel to the United States to participate in research activities and academic discussions while Dr. Uyeh will visit Kenya to support field-based collaboration with researchers and students.
The program is designed to promote global knowledge exchange and strengthen research networks between African universities and their international partners.Expected outcomes of the project include the publication of up to three scholarly papers focusing on artificial intelligence applications in agriculture.
The selection of Dr. Wamalwa adds to the growing number of researchers from Egerton University who have benefited from the African Futures Research Leadership Program.In 2024, another scholar from the university, Dr. Miriam Charimbu, participated in the initiative under mentorship from Dr. Susan Wyche.Dr. Miriam Kyule is also currently part of the programme’s fifth cohort under the guidance of Prof. Kahi, who serves as the university’s focal point for the partnership.
University officials say the growing participation of Egerton scholars in international research programmes reflects the institution’s commitment to strengthening research, innovation and global academic collaboration.The latest achievement is expected to enhance the university’s contribution to the development of technology-driven solutions aimed at improving agricultural productivity in Kenya and across the region.
