The Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), in partnership with the International Organization of the Francophonie (OIF) and the National School for Rural Development (ENDR), launched a regional workshop on smart agriculture, held in Oyem, Gabon, on 8–12 July 2025, to promote the use of emerging technologies in the agricultural sector in Member States.

The workshop is part of the Organization’s Smart Agriculture for a Brighter Future Initiative, overseen by ICESCO’s Science and Environment Sector. It seeks to accelerate the digital transformation in agriculture through innovation, capacity building, and pilot projects, as well as providing technical support in the field of agricultural policies, focusing on the practical applications of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, drones, and precision agriculture.

In his address at the opening session of the workshop, Dr. Adel Smeda, Expert at the Science and Environment Sector at ICESCO, stated that the initiative reflects the Organization’s commitment to reimagining the future of agriculture through science and technology. He added that empowering farmers with smart tools, applied knowledge, and advanced technology is an essential step towards achieving food security and sustainability.

Dr. Smeda also noted that finetuning innovation to local agricultural needs embodies the spirit of collaboration between ICESCO and its partners, led by the OIF, to build a resilient and inclusive agricultural sector based on modern technology in the Global South.

More than 60 farmers, researchers, and agricultural professionals from several African countries are taking part in the five-day workshop, which will include field training and interactive presentations related to digital farming tools, in addition to knowledge exchange sessions to support the adoption of modern technologies and keep pace with climate shifts.