Livestock theft is a significant challenge for South African farmers, costing the nation around R1.4 billion annually. Tackling such persistent issues, Tumelo Makgaka uses his background in software engineering to leverage technology, aiming to improve agricultural efficiency while addressing theft.
Makgaka’s innovative solutions, offered through platforms like Leruo, highlight how technology can be a game-changer for farmers across the country. He believes in making sophisticated solutions accessible to all, regardless of location.
“The beauty of technology is that it allows us to deliver fantastic solutions to complicated problems at a price which an everyday person can have access to,” he explains.
Magkaka highlights that facial recognition technology enables Leruo to improve livestock management through real-time tracking of each animal’s health, growth, and behavioural patterns. By creating a “digital profile” for each cow, Leruo can detect health concerns early, monitor performance metrics, and ultimately optimise herd health.
“We are using facial recognition technology to identify each cow based on its unique facial features.”
This system aims to not only improve operational efficiency but also ensure animal welfare by allowing early interventions based on the behavioural and health insights captured through the recognition software.
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Benefits of facial recognition technology for cattle
Enhanced traceability
Facial recognition technology in livestock management enhances traceability by uniquely identifying and distinguishing animals based on their facial features. Makgaka describes it as “home affairs for cows”, using artificial intelligence to uniquely identify and distinguish cattle from each other by their faces.
Beyond combating theft, this technology enhances traceability in the livestock industry, a crucial factor in managing livestock diseases and ensuring food safety.
Herd health management
Farmers can log vaccination records, receive outbreak updates, and access health advisory services through digital platforms that utilise facial recognition. These features are particularly beneficial for managing herd health and complying with veterinary requirements for formal market sales.
Increase market competitiveness
By enabling detailed record-keeping, facial recognition technology helps farmers present comprehensive information to buyers, improving negotiation power and the prices received. This improvement in pricing boosts farmers’ incomes and attracts buyers directly to the community, reducing logistical burdens and expanding market access.
“Farmers in a community in Limpopo were initially selling from R24 per kilogramme, now they’ve been able to move much closer to the R31 per kilogramme,” Makgaka says.
Integrated brand mark certificates for added security
Integration of brand mark certificates with facial recognition technology provides an official form of identification, essential for tracking stolen animals. These certificates serve as a legal identifier to confirm livestock ownership and assist in securing the traceability of the livestock.
“The brand mark certificates are the official state-provided form of identification which confirm the ownership details and assist in securing the traceability of the livestock.”
Expert guidance
Agricultural advisors play a pivotal role in the farming community, bridging the gap between farmers and the broader agricultural ecosystem. Digital platforms using facial recognition technology allow agricultural advisors to log information on behalf of farmers and provide expert guidance, strengthening relationships within the industry and ensuring that both farmers and advisors benefit from improved farming practices.
“Agricultural advisors essentially share in the outcomes. When farmers make more money, they’re able to hire agricultural advisors for more consultory services,” says Makgaka.
This collaboration strengthens relationships within the industry and ensures that both farmers and advisors benefit from improved farming practices.
Remote accessibility
Facial recognition technology can be integrated into platforms that work offline, ensuring farmers can seamlessly collect and store data in areas without connectivity. This technology can then synchronise information once back online, guaranteeing data security and building trust among farmers who may be hesitant about adopting new technology.
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