Eschewp Tech

Cassava is the crop that is mainly cultivated and consumed by most Rwandans as statistics showed that over 700,000 Rwandan family farms grow cassava and harvest over 1.7 million tons per year, according to Ingabo Syndicate. This crop has a high nutritional profile and can be converted into a range of by-products. Looking at the cassava value chain, cassava is used to makevarious items, including bread, donuts, chinchin, cakes, biscuits, and mandazi, which are predominantly consumed in Rwanda.

Cassava is becoming a very significant crop that is available and used to make quality and nutritious food in Rwanda and across Africa for the reasons stated. However, the cassava value chain faces challenges due to chemical and environmental changes such as NPK, CO2, Moisture, Temperature, PH, Humidity, and NH3 in the way it is cultivated, harvested, transported, and stored, which can contribute to the provision of unhealthy food to consumers, loss to industries, cassava sellers and farmers, and environmental pollution that contributes to climate change. 

The fact that Cassava industries cannot control all of these factors, sometimes they provide risky products unwillingly to the consumers, which can affect their health. Also, it is the source of loss they always face because they throw away the flour and other risky products that they find degraded and that the consumers can easily detect. To keep their trust, they decide not to use it and these challenges reduce the productivity of the sellers. 

Additionally COVID-19 pandemic has become a source of recession in the economy where there is an observation of a high rate of inflation in Rwanda:”Declared World Bank in the report sorted out on 8th February,2021”. Having a Solution that can remove all of the above-mentioned issues and increase productivity would be a crucial contribution to the Rwandan society. Therefore, the realtime quality monitoring system based on IoT would be one of the solutions to handle the existing problems in cassava value chain.I propose a new device that will monitor the quality of cassava in real time so as to maintain the cassava quality, to increase the production and to reduce losses throughout the cassava value chain.

Eschewp Tech solution is an Internet of Things Based solution that is going to be used to maximize agricultural productions, ensuring health of consumers and reduce environmental pollution. This solution applies first in cassava value chain. Below is the description of the solution: 

• Farming
• Transportation
• Processing
• Market

At farming level, sensors like soil ph, temperature, NPK and Soil moisture collect data about the state of the soil and after processing they provide results that the soil is good or bad for cassava.

During transportation, cassava value chain face challenges such as temperature and humidity inside trucks transporting cassava roots or cassava flour that may go high or low and may harm the products. Sensors like temperature and humidity are used here. Inside the truck, if the temperature is high, the sound will be played automatically and the message is dropped into the phone of the driver to show him the state of temperature inside the truck and will open the fun to cool down the system.  Whenever the temperature is low, the response is the same. It is the same process with the humidity changes. 

The processing level consists of two phases:

• Phase1: Cassava flour quality Determination where parameters like temperature, humidity or moisture, PH, color and smell are measured. The combination of the parameters’ values determines the quality of the cassava flour. The results will display in the LCD that cassava flour is of high quality, medium quality or low quality.

 Phase 2:  Environmental protection.

At processing level the general some of the gases such as CO2, CO, NH3, N2O are generated and emitted in the atmosphere. These are the greenhouse gases that result in climate change the planet earth is always confronted with. The device is intelligent enough to detect these gases at industrial processing and alert if they are at the level of polluting the environment.

 All of these parameters are well controlled and result in producing high quality cassava flour (HQCF) while protecting the environment.

Market Level:This is where the final product is put into stores and ready to be supplied and consumed. Customers for consume cassava flour, vendors, small-scale business owners who sell cassava flour come to the main store and buy the High quality flour. Without any doubt, they store the flour into stores with different environmental conditions according to the regions where they stay. The device is there to control the parameters that may result to harming of the product and alert whenever the harmful conditions are to occur.  If the cassava flour own does not take any action, the flour may go from high quality to medium and finally to low quality.

The customers who purchase the cassava flour products have to see into the LCD of the device the following indications: 

• High quality cassava flour/ Ifu ninzima
• Medium quality cassava flour/Ifu ni nzima
•  Low quality cassava flour/ Ifu si nzima

Video to the solution prototype

The target population are Cassava famers, Processing industries and small-scale vendors and end consumers. Cassava farmers actually are discouraged to cultivate cassava an only crop that can change life of Rwandans if addressed it well. This solution will impact farmers in such away that it comprises of sensors plugged in a soil to be able to measure the soil quality. Sensors after getting soil measurements will send them to the central processing unit to make a decision that the soil is good or bad for cassava. Cassava farmers will make a choice to plant after looking those indications. 

The solution will impact cassava processing industries in the way that during processing and cassava flour production, the Eschewp tech will real-timely monitor the quality of cassava flour.  The manual system they are using actually is not a real time and finally they find the flour rotted and provide to the consumers or thrown to the environment which is not the case using Eschewp Tech solution. 

Cassava small-scale vendors also will use the technology to help them monitor the flour in stock to protect it and deliver safe and healthy products to the consumers.

End consumers will be provided with the high quality cassava product.

As we are in Rwanda, we are familiar to the challenges Rwandans are actually facing actually. We put in their shoes to be able to understand the problem they are facing. We are close to the target population. We speak similar language and have developed effective communication strategy with the population. Through Data collection we are getting more insights about the needs of the people. The people have to participate in building of the solution as due to some data they provided, they have said that they are not skilled enough to use the technology which they expect will bring more impact and will sort them out of the poverty. My team has oversee the training to the people and the awareness that will be used to make them understand the solution and how to use it in a productive context.

It is no longer a concept because my team has already developed the prototype which is a device with sensors like NPK, PH, Moisture Sensor, NH3, CO2,temperature and Humidity Sensor that are used to get data from soil, and cassava flour. To test the prototype, the soil of rural communities were considered to check whether it cassava can grow there or not. Sensors have been plugged into the soil and display into the Liquid Crystal Display(LCD) of Eschewp Tech that cassava is bad or good for cassava. Even to the flour the prototype measures parameters from environment and cassava flour itself and after processing shows that cassava flour is of High quality/ Ifu ninzima, Cassava Flour is of Medium quality/Ifu ninzima, Cassava flour is of Low quality/ Ifu sinzima.

You can still looking the prototype by watching the above mentioned video on what is your solution.

The solution targets Farmers in Rwanda. But it has not yet served any because We are still testing it before we deploy it to the people. We have to start training people also to use it.

I am applying to solve as I have a solution that would address the challenges African population are facing and believe solve can connect me to the solver teams who will help me grow and make the solution to life while impacting the global community. The barriers that would appear are that it would be hard for me to reach the solution to many people due to financial hardships and Legally because I will need to convince the government about the solution and give me permission to apply this solution to the citizens.

An Internet of Things (IoT) based quality monitoring system for cassava value chain is an innovative solution for several reasons:

1. Real-time monitoring: Sensors collect data in real-time, allowing for real-time monitoring of various aspects of the cassava value chain. This means that any issues or problems are identified and addressed immediately, resulting in a more efficient and effective supply chain.

2. Data-driven decision-making: The data collected by IoT sensors are analyzed to identify patterns and trends, which are used to make data-driven decisions. This  helps farmers, processors, and other stakeholders in the cassava value chain to make more informed decisions about production, processing, and distribution.

3. Quality control: The IoT sensors  monitor various quality control parameters, such as temperature, humidity, and moisture levels and other sensors  throughout the entire supply chain. This ensures that the cassava products meet the required quality standards and that any deviations from these standards can be identified and addressed quickly.

4. Traceability: The IoT sensors are used to track cassava products from the farm to the end consumer, providing complete traceability throughout the supply chain. This helps to build consumer confidence in the quality and safety of the products.

Overall, an IoT-based quality monitoring system for cassava value chain is an innovative solution that it helps to improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and quality of the cassava supply chain, leading to better outcomes for farmers, processors, and consumers.

The Eschewp Tech focuses on the implementation of an IoT-Based Quality monitoring system for cassava along its value chain to support cassava farmers, processing industries, small-scale businesses that sell cassava, and end consumers to produce mass and healthy cassava products, provide high-quality cassava products and protect the environment while reducing the cassava waste that actually results in CO2 atmosphere gases emission. The UN has implemented sustainable goals(SDGs) for sustaining global health and Wealth across the World.

Among them, are zero hunger figures. Due to covid-19 and other conditions, the inflation rate of consumer products is high in Rwanda and is affordable by a limited number of citizens. Some Citizens have found themselves in a high level of poverty where they cannot afford money for basic needs and this may affect the nutrition and schooling of their kids and relatives.  The solution benefits them in the way that they have to produce more cassava products, consume them and sell them in the processing industries and small-scale businesses to get money for other food to equilibrate the diet and also to get money for the school of their kids. With this solution, life becomes Normal in next year after the implementation of the solution.

To the environment, the production of CO2 in the environment is a source of climate change always observed in the planet. The United Nations is mandate to create a green planet exempted of the changes that most of times take lives of the World citizens. Studies have shown that cassava waste generates 60%(Cassava waste generation CO2 gas emission). The solution provides high quality cassava products and as the hazardous environmental conditions are measured real timely and the decision is taken the time of finding hazardous parameters, there is no longer waste and the environmental protection is assured. In the next five years, no poverty and hunger will count in Rwanda where we will have a high GDP and HDI optimized. 

To measure the progress of Eschewp Tech for the cassava value chain toward impact goals, I am considering the following steps:

1. Define impact goals: I Identified the specific impact goals that the system is intended to achieve include goals such as improving crop yields, reducing waste, increasing product quality, and improving overall efficiency of the value chain.

2. Establish performance indicators: Identified specific performance indicators that are used to measure progress toward the impact goals. For example, crop yield per acre, percentage of waste reduction, improvement in product quality ratings, and reduction in processing time.

3. Collect and analyze data: Collect data on the performance indicators using the Eschewp Tech Device. This data are analyzed though the cloud  dashboard  to identify trends and patterns over time, and to determine whether progress is being made toward the impact goals.

4. Compare to baseline: Establish a baseline for each performance indicator before implementing the Solution. This baseline is used to compare current performance to past performance, and to determine whether progress has been made.

5. Evaluate and adjust: Evaluate the results of the data analysis and adjust the solution as needed to improve performance and progress toward the impact goals.

In conclusion,  to measure the progress of Eschewp Tech that is used for the cassava value chain, I establish clear impact goals, define performance indicators, collect and analyze data, compare to baseline, and continually evaluate and adjust the system to optimize performance.

An Eschewp Tech is an IoT Intelligent Device that uses connected sensors and devices to collect and analyze data about a product or process in real-time. This data is used to identify issues or inefficiencies and make improvements to increase quality and efficiency.

By using de device, companies quickly identify problems and take corrective action, which help to reduce waste, improve product quality, and increase customer satisfaction. For example, if a sensor detects a deviation in temperature during the manufacturing process, the system immediately alert the responsible personnel, so they can take necessary action to fix the problem.

Overall, This IoT device help companies to save time, reduce costs, and improve the overall quality of their products and services. By continuously monitoring and analyzing data in real-time, companies can make proactive decisions that help to prevent defects and improve quality, which ultimately leads to greater customer satisfaction and brand loyalty.

The technology that powers my solution is an Internet of Things and SMS technology. It uses sensors to collect data, process Data using Microcontroller(Arduino) and send data to cloud using GSM/GPRS module. The GSM module helps also to send SMS to the owner of Cassava products if there is an action that has to be taken. For example, the Temperature during transportation may become high and can harm the product's life. The SMS is sent to the Driver and owner of the product and show them what they have to do to protect the product such as opening fans inside the truck,etc.

My approach to incorporating diversity, equity, and inclusivity into my work involves being mindful of the language I use, seeking out diverse sources of information, being open to feedback and criticism, and ensuring that my services are accessible to everyone.

I do my best to create an environment that respect diversity equity and inclusion values.

For diversity: The solution is accessible to everyone without any form of discrimination.

Equity: Me and my team believe in the community that shares equal opportunity.

Inclusion: Me and my team are happy to work in an invironment that we feel we respect each other and are respected,

Eschewp Tech  is a powerful tool for enhancing productivity, reducing waste, and improving the quality of cassava-based products. Here's a potential business concept and business model:

The Device consists of a network of IoT sensors installed in key locations throughout the cassava value chain, such as farms, processing facilities, and distribution centers. These sensors collect data on various environmental factors that affect cassava quality, such as temperature, humidity, soil moisture, air quality and other environmental parameters such as NO2, CO2,NH3,PH and NPK. The system would also include quality monitoring tools that would track factors like starch content, moisture levels, and other key indicators of cassava quality.

This data are transmitted in real-time to a central database, which is accessible to farmers, processors, and other stakeholders in the value chain. This would allow them to monitor conditions and quality levels, identify potential issues, and take action to optimize productivity and quality.

The business model for this concept is a subscription-based service, where customers pay a monthly fee for access to the monitoring system and data. The pricing is based on the number of sensors installed and the level of monitoring required. The company could also offer additional services, such as consulting and training, to help customers optimize their use of the system and improve their cassava value chain operations.

By providing a comprehensive technology based on IoT, this business concept has the potential to significantly improve productivity, reduce waste, and enhance the quality of cassava-based products. It could also have a positive impact on the environment by promoting sustainable and efficient use of resources throughout the value chain.

There are several strategies that I will employ to bring in money to fund an Eschewp Tech Solution. Here are some possible approaches:

1. Seek funding from government grants: Government organizations often provide grants to support innovative projects that address social or economic issues. I am researching for grants related to agriculture and technology and apply for them to get the necessary funding for your the solution.

2. Attract investors: I am preparing a slide deck to pitch the idea to potential investors who are interested in agritech or sustainable development projects. A well-prepared business plan and a prototype of the Eschewp Tech can be helpful to convince investors.

3. Crowdfunding: Crowdfunding platforms will be used to raise money for the project from people who are interested in the idea. I am creating a crowdfunding campaign and offer rewards to those who contribute to the campaign.

4. Collaborate with NGOs and research institutions: Non-governmental organizations and research institutions may be interested in partnering with me to support the development and implementation of the Device. Collaborating with such organizations can provide funding, expertise, and credibility to the project.

5. Generate revenue from service fees: Once Eschewp Tech is in place, I have to generate revenue by charging a service fee to stakeholders who use it. This fee can be based on the size of the farm or the quantity of cassava being monitored.

6. Participate in competitions: Various business competitions offer funding as a prize to the winners. Participating in such competitions will help me to secure the necessary funds for the Solution.

Overall, a combination of these strategies can be employed to bring in the necessary funding to implement Eschewp Tech Device for the cassava value chain solution.

Creation of a solution based on the needs of the communities(Stakeholders): I have collected some data to be able to make sure they need the solution.

Actually, I have not yet received grants with my solution but I am in the way of looking for grants that will help me distribute the technology to many stakeholders.