Young farmers from across the Caribbean are being equipped with cutting-edge drone technology in a bold move to revolutionize agricultural practices and boost crop efficiency. As part of the inaugural Women and Youth in Agriculture exchange program in Costa Rica, participants explored how precision agriculture can transform the region’s farming sector.
The initiative, supported by the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA) and CATIE, introduced attendees to leading drone models under the DJI Agriculture brand, including the Agri Agress 250, Agress T25, and Mavic 3 Multispectral. These drones specialize in advanced aerial surveying, disease detection, and targeted spraying—techniques that significantly reduce chemical waste, water use, and labor.
Isaac Arauz, a drone specialist and distributor for DJI Agriculture in Costa Rica, emphasized the value of this technology for small and large-scale farming operations. “Drones offer real-time insights into crop health and field conditions from above, allowing farmers to act quickly and precisely against pests and diseases,” he explained.
The benefits extend beyond efficiency. Arauz noted that the shift from traditional spraying methods to drone-assisted application ensures low-volume, targeted coverage, minimizing environmental impact and improving crop quality.
Young Caribbean farmers expressed excitement about the possibilities. Michael Joseph, a drone operator and farmer from Antigua, said, “Drone technology is the future. It allows us to farm more with less—less labor, fewer chemicals, and less water. Seeing these large-scale farms in Costa Rica has opened our eyes to what’s possible back home.”
Heather Moise, a farmer from Millet, Saint Lucia, added, “This is a major leap forward in agriculture. Embracing drone technology is not just about modernization; it’s about addressing global food security and sustainability. For us in Saint Lucia and the Caribbean, this is a powerful step toward a tech-driven agricultural future.”
The Costa Rica visit has not only exposed youth to advanced agri-tech but also fostered regional networking, innovation sharing, and a renewed vision for climate-smart farming across the Caribbean.
