Two Nigerian teenage sisters have developed an innovative artificial intelligence‑driven solution to help reduce massive food losses suffered by farmers after harvest. Eleven‑year‑old Zainab Nasirudeen Yakubu and her 13‑year‑old sister Asmau Nasirudeen Yakubu are the co‑founders of Guard Grains, an agritech initiative that includes an AI‑powered mat designed to protect harvested crops and improve storage outcomes for farmers.
The sisters’ creation combines artificial intelligence with sensors and sound‑repellent technology to detect and deter pests, such as rodents and reptiles, that often damage stored grains, and to monitor moisture levels that can lead to rot and nutrient loss if left unchecked. Their father, Nurudeen Yakubu, explained that the mat helps reduce pest and rodent damage, saying the technology can alert users to early warning signs of spoilage and actively protect produce.
In a statement, Zainab said her award signals the potential of youth‑led innovation: “I’m honoured to receive this award. Thank you, Tech Unite Africa… This proves one thing: being young is not a limitation. To every young person: start now. Don’t wait. We are not next-we are now.”
The sisters were recently recognised with the Youngest Founder of the Year award at the Technology Innovation Recognition Award (TIRA) 2026, organised by Tech Unite Africa, in recognition of their contributions to agricultural technology among young innovators.
Nigeria faces significant challenges with post‑harvest losses: independent estimates indicate the country lost between 30 million and 40 million metric tonnes of food in 2025 due to inefficiencies in handling, storage and transportation, equivalent to roughly ₦3.5 trillion to ₦5 trillion in economic value.
Experts say such losses not only reduce farmers’ incomes but also contribute to food insecurity and economic waste. Industry leaders have urged investment in improved storage, cold-chain systems, and value‑addition technologies to address the systemic problem.
Analysts believe innovations like Guard Grains’ AI mat could offer a cost‑effective tool in reducing wastage at the grassroots level and improving sustainability in food systems nationwide.
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