New dairy data app enhances smallholder productivity in Africa, Asia

AFRICA – The Africa Asia Dairy Genetic Gains (AADGG) project has introduced a cutting-edge Android-based mobile application, the Dairy Data App, aimed at transforming smallholder dairy enterprises through advanced performance tracking.

The app was developed in collaboration with the International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), CGIAR initiatives, Unmiti, and the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH).

According to the AADGG project team, the Dairy Data App is designed to provide instant, actionable insights for smallholder farmers and extension personnel, bridging critical gaps in data collection and utilization.

Unlike the previously used Open Data Kit (ODK) tools, the app enables users to query entered data and receive real-time feedback on key dairy performance indicators such as calving, milk production, health status, weight, and reproduction parameters.

These features allow extension service providers to better support farmers in improving productivity and profitability.

The app’s enhanced functionalities include embedded GPS location data, photo uploads for accurate record-keeping, and offline operation capabilities, ensuring usability even in areas with limited connectivity.

Registered users can record farm-specific information, including land use, livestock feed, housing, and access to training services.

This level of detail equips farmers and stakeholders with the tools needed to make informed decisions, optimize resources, and enhance overall farm performance.

As reported by AADGG, the Dairy Data App is available in active AADGG countries such as Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Nigeria, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Zambia, and Nepal.

Its design prioritizes convenience, offering an intuitive interface for real-time data validation and seamless data entry.

Extension personnel play a key role in registering farms and monitoring animal performance, facilitating continuous communication with farmers for improved herd management practices.

The app operates on a robust and agile data platform that aggregates, processes, and analyzes information from multiple farms.

According to the developers, this centralized system generates performance benchmarks that allow program managers and extension personnel to identify trends and guide targeted interventions.

These autogenerated summaries provide valuable insights to farmers, enabling them to align their operations with best practices in dairy production and management.

From a business perspective, the Dairy Data App offers a competitive edge for smallholder enterprises, empowering them with critical performance data to boost productivity.

The ability to track key parameters and identify inefficiencies in real time enhances resource optimization and minimizes losses, positioning farmers for improved profitability in the long term.

Furthermore, data ownership remains with the respective countries, ensuring that national livestock sectors benefit from the information collected.

Researchers and policymakers can leverage the comprehensive datasets to identify trends, address sector challenges, and develop evidence-based strategies for improving dairy performance.

The Dairy Data App is a testament to the growing role of digital innovations in strengthening dairy value chains in Africa and Asia.

By equipping smallholder farmers with accessible technology, the AADGG project is driving efficiency and sustainability, laying the foundation for a more competitive dairy sector.

With its interactive features and timely feedback mechanisms, the app is poised to transform dairy productivity and support the economic growth of smallholder enterprises across participating regions.