Duhok sees first use of agricultural drone to advance farming practices

DUHOK — For the first time, an agricultural drone has been used in Duhok Province, according to local agricultural authorities. The drone was deployed by a farmer in the Shariya area to spray pesticides, marking a significant step forward in adopting modern technology in the region’s farming practices.

“Today, for the first time, an agricultural drone was used by a farmer in the Shariya area to spray pesticides on crops,” a representative from Duhok’s General Directorate of Agriculture said. This advancement signals a shift towards more efficient farming methods in the area.

While this marks Duhok’s first use of an agricultural drone, similar technology has already been adopted in other parts of the Kurdistan Region, including Sharazur and more recently, Penjwin in Sulaymaniyah governorate.

Authorities are encouraging more farmers to embrace modern technology and scientific advancements in agriculture. “We urge more farmers to take advantage of these technological tools to improve their agricultural practices,” the Directorate emphasized, reaffirming their support for local farmers.

These drones, equipped with cameras, sensors, and sprayers, can monitor crop health, assess soil conditions, spray pesticides, and even plant seeds.

In June, during the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the fruit and vegetable market Akre project in Duhok Province, Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government, said, “We aim to elevate the agricultural sector of the Kurdistan Region to global standards.” He emphasized aspirations for self-sufficiency and noted the region’s goal of becoming a key food supplier for Iraq and surrounding areas. “Our main objective is to diversify revenue sources and boost economic growth through the development of agriculture,” Barzani said.