U.S.-funded research merges drones, AI, and tracking for conservation in Botswana

U.S.-funded research merges drones, AI, and tracking for conservation in Botswana
Geopolitics
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Allyson Algeo, Deputy Chief of Mission | U.S. Embassy in Botswana

The U.S. Embassy’s Defense Attaché Office recently visited Professor Rodrigo S. Jamisola Jr. at the Botswana International University of Science & Technology (BIUST) to evaluate the progress of a research project funded by the U.S. Army. The project, titled “Deploying UAVs to Interpret Human and Wildlife Activities from Tracks using AI with Indigenous Tracker Expertise,” integrates drone technology, artificial intelligence, and indigenous tracking knowledge.

This initiative aims to enhance Botswana’s wildlife conservation and anti-poaching efforts by combining modern surveillance tools with traditional expertise. The goal is to develop a more effective system for monitoring human and animal activity in remote areas.

The collaboration highlights the United States’ commitment to supporting Botswana's leadership in environmental protection and sustainable development through science, technology, and security cooperation.