Artificial Intelligence (AI) extension interventions, for Handling Red Palm Weevil (RPW), in El-Bahriah Oasis, Egypt.
The Red Palm Weevil (RPW), Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, represents a critical threat to the date palm industry in Egypt, particularly in the vital oases of the Western Desert. While Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is recognized as the most sustainable control strategy, its effectiveness hinges on the knowledge and practices of Date Palm Growers (DPGs). This study, conducted in El-Bahriah Oasis, assessed the current status of RPW management among 156 randomly selected DPGs through a structured questionnaire. The findings revealed a high level of existing knowledge regarding RPW symptoms and control methods, coupled with a strong commitment to applying IPM principles. However, to bridge the gap between knowledge and optimal application, this paper proposes a strategic integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into extension services. The proposed AI extension interventions focus on modernizing training, facilitating information dissemination, empowering community-based learning, and establishing rapid response systems. The conclusion underscores that Among the many AI interventions important examples include:
- Gradually integrating AI applications in extension programs, through mainstreaming more innovative AI tools in implementing extension plans and capacity building of RPWs’ technicians and progressive DPGs, through Intensively using AI digital applications for more effective dissemination, sharing and exchange of IPM information, practices and experiences.
- Establishing Males, Females or Mixed Farmers’ Field Schools to facilitate DPGs’ group learning, understanding and applying the best-fit IPM practices.
- Using AI applications in Awareness Raising Campaigns for promoting high quality date production and exports.
- Establishing ground and/or mobile phone hot-lines for timely responding to sudden emergencies, consultation and/or advice requests.
