In today’s world, the fusion of cloud computing, big data, and artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how we tackle droughts—a critical environmental issue. I recently spoke with Joseph Ayoade, a seasoned information technology expert with a deep background in AI and data analytics, about how these technologies are boosting global water security.
Joseph’s journey from physics and electronics to AI-driven climate solutions gives him a unique perspective on how technology can tackle global challenges like drought. He shared a personal story about how his problem-solving mindset led him to AI, especially after an attempt to automate a generator shut-off. This experience opened his eyes to the potential of intelligent solutions.
Drought is a major threat to agriculture and water supply, impacting global stability. Joseph believes that while AI isn’t a magic bullet, it offers groundbreaking predictive abilities. “AI can solve most problems now. But the one thing humans will always have is intuition and vision,” he shared. AI’s strength lies in its capacity to analyze massive data sets, which enhances forecasting and mitigation efforts. With AI achieving 90% accuracy in weather prediction, we’re shifting from reactive to proactive drought management. Instead of waiting for a crisis to hit, AI helps us anticipate it, allowing for timely interventions. As Joseph pointed out, “If traditional solutions were enough, we wouldn’t discuss drought today.”
One of AI’s exciting applications is smart irrigation, where AI is integrated into water management. Joseph explains that effective drought response is about managing water wisely, not just adding more. “The mistake most communities make during drought is thinking it’s all about water. It’s not. If you just throw in water, you risk soil erosion and nutrient loss due to leaching,” he said. AI optimizes water use by determining when and how much is needed, preserving resources while minimizing environmental impact. By using satellite data and ground sensors, AI refines irrigation strategies, boosting crop yields and reducing waste. However, Joseph acknowledges that satellite data has its limits for local issues. “Satellite data is useful for large-scale monitoring, but when trying to solve local drought problems, it can only go so far,” he explained.
Looking at regional responses, Joseph highlights Israel’s success in addressing drought with desalination and deep irrigation, leading to a surplus water supply. On the other hand, landlocked countries like Mali and Burkina Faso need different approaches, such as soil management and tree planting. Joseph shared a grassroots initiative in Burkina Faso where local creativity turned barren lands into fertile grounds. While effective, these low-tech solutions require time—a luxury not always available. “Africa has to wait. It doesn’t have the financial resources to deploy large-scale solutions overnight,” he noted.
Cloud computing is the backbone of AI’s role in drought mitigation. Joseph emphasizes the importance of cloud infrastructure for scalable AI solutions. “Cloud platforms take away the headaches of infrastructure. They make scalable AI possible,” he said, referencing organizations struggling with outdated on-premises systems. Cloud-based solutions offer seamless scalability, yet AI’s rapid growth challenges current computing capabilities. “If AI keeps growing at this pace, we will run out of compute power before the end of the year,” he warned, suggesting that quantum computing could be the future.
Despite fears of job loss, Joseph argues that AI will create new opportunities, requiring new skills and expertise. “People say AI will take jobs. I tell them, ‘No, AI will create jobs,’” he asserted. Encouraging aspiring technologists, Joseph advises embracing AI as a tool to be used wisely, not feared. “AI will help us predict disasters before they happen. It’s a game changer, and we’re only scratching the surface,” he concluded.
