Precious Chilupsya, a 2024 graduate of DMI St. John the Baptist University has successfully developed a virtuous incubator system aimed at transforming poultry farming.
This innovative system seamlessly integrates Internet of Things (IOT) technology to improve the efficiency and success rate of poultry egg incubation.
According to Chilupsya, the project seeks to minimize manual intervention, reduce resource consumption, and ensure optimal conditions for embryo development.
“The smart incubator addresses the challenges of traditional manual monitoring and adjustments by leveraging IOT devices, sensors, and data analytics to create an automated and intelligent incubation system,” he explained.
The system provides energy efficiency by incorporating energy-efficient components to minimize power consumption, reducing operational costs for farmers.
It also provides notifications and alerts in case of critical deviations or equipment malfunctions, enabling proactive intervention to prevent losses.
Chilupsya highlighted that the system automates the monitoring and management of the poultry incubation process, mimicking a broody hen.
“A software program was written and uploaded to the controller board to facilitate the functionality,” he added.
The innovator spent over K600,000 to make the project a reality, using materials such as Arduino controller boards, temperature and humidity sensors, and an array of relay switches.
He also engaged metal fabrication and welding experts to help with the housing.
Chilupsya emphasized that sourcing electrical and electronic components was a challenge, especially those sourced from outside the country.
However, he encouraged young people to consider providing technological solutions to the challenges faced by the country, which could easily be turned into a source of employment.
Enock Mvula, an innovation expert from the University of Malawi, praised Chilupsya’s innovation, saying it ensures optimal conditions for hatchings and allows farmers to control and monitor the environment remotely.
“Innovations like these can pave the way for a more efficient and sustainable agriculture,” Mvula said.
Lloyd Banda, an innovation expert from the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR), added that Chilupsya’s project has the potential to transform poultry farming by leveraging IOT technology to improve efficiency, productivity, and animal welfare while reducing costs and environmental impact.
For more details, contact Precious Chilupsya on +265 999 20 39 70.
