The Role of Mulching in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Enhancing Soil Health Among Smallholder Farmers in Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, and Tanzania: An AI-Driven Approach

Mulching is a widely recognized conservation practice that improves soil moisture retention, enhances fertility, and reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. This study explores the effectiveness of mulching among smallholder farmers in Zambia, Malawi, Kenya, and Tanzania, focusing on its role in mitigating climate change and improving soil health. Additionally, we integrate artificial intelligence (AI) to optimize mulching practices through predictive analytics and real-time monitoring. AI-powered models, utilizing remote sensing data and machine learning algorithms, assess soil conditions, moisture levels, and carbon sequestration potential. These insights enable precision agriculture techniques, helping farmers make data-driven decisions that maximize mulching benefits while minimizing environmental impact. The study also evaluates AI-driven mobile applications and advisory systems that provide tailored recommendations based on localized climate and soil data. By leveraging AI technology, this research aims to enhance the sustainability of mulching practices, improve productivity, and contribute to climate resilience in smallholder farming systems.