Development of a mobile-based climate information and advisory system for crop management: a case of musanze district, rwanda
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Date
2025-08
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NM-AIST
Abstract
Mobile applications and internet access enable climate change adaptations. Climatic information services package and deliver climatic data to customers, including temperature, rainfall, wind, and soil moisture. In Rwanda, farmers are accessing climate information through radios, television, trained agents through the Rwanda Meteorological Agency, and by weather applications. However, farmers claim that because of weak dissemination channels and not interacting, they are facing the main challenges in making decisions at the right time for achieving sustainable food production and security, which provides lower incomes and famine to society. We developed a bilingual (Kinyarwanda and English) mobile application using the Flutter framework with a Firebase backend to address these challenges. We integrated the Open Weather API for real-time and forecast data. An SMS gateway was incorporated to ensure notifications reach farmers even in low-connectivity areas. The system was evaluated in Musanze District, where it delivered current and forecast temperatures between 15.5 ℃ and 21.9 ℃, overcast or rainy skies, 55 % humidity, 801.5 hPa pressure, 1.5 m/s wind speed, sunrise at 07:04 AM, and sunset at 07:06 PM directly to users’ devices. Problem reporting and real-time conversation with agronomic officers provided individualized advising help. The Dfarmer app enabled farmers to make timely decisions and increase crop output by providing interactive climatic information and advisory services in their local area.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG-1:No Poverty Reduces economic vulnerability from climate risks
SDG-2:Zero Hunger Increased agricultural productivity and food security
SDG-9:Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure ICT-based solution in rural areas
SDG-12:Responsible Consumption and Production Promotes sustainable farming practices
SDG-13:Climate Action Real-time climate adaptation support for farmers
SDG-17:Partnerships for the Goals (If applicable) Collaborates with institutions for impact