Sotilma, a Senegalese agriTech startup, introduces an innovative water management technology for farmers. Our solution relies on the use of locally manufactured smart water meters, providing farmers with the ability to monitor and optimize their water consumption in real-time through an application staying miles away. What sets Sotilma's solution apart is its unique value proposition focused on simplicity, accessibility, and environmental benefits. Unlike complex and costly traditional irrigation systems, our simplified and affordable approach enables precise irrigation management. Sotilma ensures real-time tracking of water usage, allowing farmers to remotely manage their water supply through a mobile application or the Sotilma_Connect system.

Sotilma addresses the critical challenge of water management inefficiency in African agriculture. Currently, agriculture accounts for over 70% of global water use, and water demand in this sector is expected to increase by 50% by 2050 (FAO). This water waste and overconsumption lead to severe economic and environmental consequences, including high production costs, limited agricultural yields, and pressure on water resources.

Farmers, especially in African countries, are most affected by the issue of inefficient water management in agriculture. These areas heavily rely on agriculture for the livelihoods of their populations, and water scarcity poses a major obstacle to food security and economic growth.

The potential scope of our solution is significant, targeting both small and large-scale farms, as well as irrigation companies. With over 70% of the workforce engaged in agriculture in Africa, the market is extensive. Our solution can significantly contribute to meeting the growing global demand for effective water management solutions, especially in regions where agriculture is vital.

https://www.sotilma.com

• Africa

• Youth
• Women
• Remote and rural communities

The Sotilma project, focused on smart water management for agriculture, is reproducible in various global agricultural contexts. It offers adaptability to existing irrigation systems, locally manufactures its smart meters, provides flexible connectivity, ensures user-friendly training, and establishes collaborations with local stakeholders. The reproducibility of Sotilma is based on its flexibility, its local manufacturing model, its adaptability to different agricultural contexts, its ability to adjust to local infrastructures, and its collaborative engagement with local partners.

The Sotilma project is sustainable in several ways. Firstly, it contributes to the sustainable use of water by enabling precise irrigation management, thus reducing water waste and overconsumption. Additionally, by using locally manufactured smart water meters, it promotes the autonomy of farmers while boosting the local economy.

Environmental sustainability is also at the core of the project, as more efficient water use leads to energy savings and preserves water resources. Moreover, simplifying traditional irrigation systems helps reduce the carbon footprint associated with these practices.

On the economic front, Sotilma provides an affordable solution for farmers, contributing to the financial viability of agricultural operations. By promoting better resource management, the project can enhance the profitability of farmers, thereby strengthening the economic sustainability of agricultural communities.

Le projet Sotilma actively promotes the values of the WSIS (World Summit on the Information Society) in its community by contributing to solving a critical issue related to water management in agriculture. The WSIS emphasizes the use of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to enhance sustainable development, and this is precisely what Sotilma accomplishes. Technological Innovation: Sotilma uses locally manufactured smart water meters in Senegal, demonstrating technological innovation that aligns with the promotion of ICTs. Sustainable Development Goals: The project contributes to Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) by focusing on food security and improved nutrition. This aligns with the WSIS vision of leveraging ICTs to achieve social objectives. Accessibility and Inclusion: Sotilma adopts an affordable and accessible approach, ensuring that farmers, even in remote regions, can benefit from the technology. This reflects WSIS's commitment to digital inclusion. Social and Economic Impact: By optimizing water use in agriculture, Sotilma brings social impact by strengthening food security and economic impact by reducing production costs for farmers.