The aim of the programme was to build capacity within the country with regard to the combined use of Earth observation technologies (for example, satellite and drone imagery) and machine learning and artificial intelligence methods within the agricultural sector. The programme was funded by the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) and supported by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the South African National Space Agency (SANSA). The 20 competitively selected trainees who took part in the programme included full and part-time students, as well as full-time staff from government and private agencies.
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) – through the Marine and Coastal Operations for Southern Africa (MarCOSouth) consortium – has received one of 12 Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) and Africa programme eStations that enable access to critical Earth Observation (EO) data.
CSIR earth observation experts are making significant contributions to a global consortium that is set to deliver data, models and knowledge that will improve the management of 23 protected areas across the globe – of which the Kruger National Park is one.
