A Nigerian national, he moved to Rwanda to pursue his university studies. There, he felt compelled to provide innovative and sustainable agricultural solutions for smallholder farmers and urban households, particularly in arid areas or those vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Israel Smart, a Nigerian entrepreneur based in Rwanda, is the founder of Smartel Agritech, a startup at the forefront of developing hydroponic systems. These systems are specifically designed for arid zones and regions impacted by climate change.
Launched in 2022, Smartel Agritech creates soilless farming solutions that utilize nutrient-enriched water instead of traditional soil. This innovation allows for cultivation in areas with limited water or arable land. The company's systems integrate hydroponics with smart irrigation, solar energy, and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. This combination optimizes plant growth, monitors nutrient needs in real time, detects crop diseases, and automates irrigation. According to the startup, this technology reduces water usage by up to 90% compared to conventional farming, while simultaneously increasing yields and decreasing agriculture's carbon footprint.
Smartel targets smallholder farmers, urban households, and refugee communities. Its goal is to facilitate local production of vegetables, fodder, and fruits at lower costs and with reduced environmental impact. The company also provides training, technical support, and revenue-sharing models to encourage the adoption of its systems.
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