Boyalı
Pilot village under the FAO Digital Villages Initiative (DVI)
Description
Boyali village, located in the Güdül district of Ankara province is renowned for its Angora goat breeding, known also as Mohair goats, which are considered a cultural heritage due to their historical, geographical, agricultural and commercial significance. Livestock breeding constitutes a major economic activity in Boyali, where the approximately 25 000 animals, and the favourable altitude and climate all contribute to the production of high-quality mohair. Under the “Digital Villages Initiative in Action” (TCP/RER/3905) FAO project, the integrated digital goat farming system is integrated to enhance this heritage by combining precision technology, real-time data, and digital tools to optimize livestock management, improve productivity, and ensure sustainable farming practices.
Technology
The Integrated Digital Goat Farming System in Boyali, Türkiye, combines advanced technologies to advance goat farming. Firstly, the climate station provides real-time weather data, helping farmers prepare for extreme conditions and make informed decisions. Secondly, temperature, humidity, and ammonia sensors installed in barns continuously monitor barn conditions to prevent health issues in mohair goats and maintain a healthy environment for livestock. Next, drones help locate lost livestock, addressing the challenge of livestock loss due to the shortage of shepherds, reducing financial losses and improving efficiency in animal management. Fourth technology is an app that enables digital management of farm and pasture data, providing weather updates, market tracking, and insights for better decision-making. The livestock advisory package available in the app provides daily management support by offering expert guidance and ensuring the adoption of sustainable farming practices. Additionally, the local cooperative's inclusion in the Hepyerinden platform facilitates direct online sales.
Target
The integrated system is owned and managed by the community in Boyali. All farmers in Boyali are intended to benefit from the livestock advisory package, while the local women’s cooperative are expected to gain economic opportunities through inclusion in the Hep Yerinden platform for direct online sales.
Business model
Impact
The integrated system is expected to improve livestock health, reduce losses, and improve overall farm productivity, directly supporting farmers in Boyali. By providing real-time data and expert advisory services, its goal is to empower farmers to make informed decisions, ensuring sustainable and efficient farming practices. Inclusion in the Hep Yerinden platform has the aim to expand market access for the local women’s cooperative, boosting their income and promoting the economic empowerment of women in the community.
Four Betters
Better production
Better environment
