Born in Ngozi in 2002, Elie Bubuya, a young Burundian innovator, is currently completing his studies in Computer Science at the University of Ngozi. He is stepping up to shape the future of technology particularly in Burundi and in Africa in general. As the co-founder of Hyphen Tech, he is pioneering AI-driven solutions aimed at revolutionizing both business and agriculture.
Hyphen Tech was founded with a clear mission: to develop digital solutions tailored to address local challenges. Initially, the company focused on equipping business owners with digital tools to streamline operations. However, it soon became apparent that agriculture, Burundi’s economic backbone, stood to benefit significantly from AI-driven innovations. Recognizing this opportunity, Hyphen Tech expanded its focus to developing artificial intelligence solutions that enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability.
“My journey into AI began in 2017 when I first saw a video about Google’s self-driving car,” Elie recalls. “At the time, AI was not widely understood in my community. The launch of ChatGPT was a turning point, making AI’s potential more evident. This realization motivated me to pursue advanced AI training, ultimately earning a spot in an elite program in Benin, where I studied AI applications with 119 other learners from across Africa.”
Elie Bubuya in a Summit of AI Action in Paris, France
Despite its promising potential, AI remains a relatively new concept in Burundi, posing several challenges for Hyphen Tech. Many people are still unfamiliar with the benefits of AI-powered solutions, making education and awareness key hurdles. Additionally, limited internet access impedes the widespread adoption of digital technologies, and securing investment for IT-driven projects remains difficult due to a lack of understanding among investors and financial institutions.
“Our biggest challenge is educating people on the value of AI solutions,” Elie explains. “Many are hesitant because they are unfamiliar with how AI can enhance their work, particularly in agriculture. Internet accessibility and funding constraints also slow down our progress, forcing us to rely on self-funding.”
Hyphen Tech’s flagship project, AgriHyphen AI, is tackling one of Burundi’s most pressing issues which is agricultural inefficiency. The AI-powered platform assists farmers in diagnosing plant diseases, optimizing crop yields, and reducing post-harvest losses. By analyzing images of crops, the system provides farmers with real-time insights and recommendations, enabling them to take immediate action to protect and enhance their harvests.
“Burundi’s agriculture sector struggles with high post-harvest losses, outdated farming techniques, and limited disease detection methods,” says Elie. “AgriHyphen AI offers a user-friendly solution to these challenges, allowing farmers to detect plant diseases early, improve productivity, and ultimately increase their earnings.”
The effectiveness of AgriHyphen AI is already evident in the success stories emerging from local farmers. Potato growers using the platform have significantly reduced crop waste, leading to improved productivity compared to previous seasons. These early results demonstrate the transformative potential of AI in agriculture, not just in Burundi but across Africa.
One of the most remarkable success stories involves a cooperative of potato farmers who previously struggled with late blight disease. Before implementing AgriHyphen AI, they faced significant crop losses. However, with the platform’s real-time disease detection, they were able to intervene early, reducing losses by 40% and increasing their overall yield by 30%. This success has inspired other farmers in the region to adopt AI-driven solutions, proving the technology’s viability and benefits.
Looking ahead, Elie reveals that Hyphen Tech envisions scaling AgriHyphen AI to at least five African countries within the next five years. “If we receive the necessary support and funding, we believe this technology can revolutionize agriculture,” Elie states. “By increasing farmers’ incomes, boosting productivity, and enhancing food security, AI can play a crucial role in economic development.”
Elie Bubuya, presenting
To fully realize the benefits of AI in agriculture, Elie urges the Burundian government and private investors to support technological innovation. “The government should prioritize investments in AI-powered solutions like AgriHyphen AI to empower farmers,” he emphasizes. “Partnerships with tech pioneers, increased training opportunities, and improved internet accessibility in rural areas are essential to drive this transformation.”
The role of private investors and international organizations in supporting AI-driven agricultural solutions cannot be overstated. Funding initiatives and grants aimed at equipping farmers with the necessary tools and knowledge would accelerate the adoption of AI in farming. Additionally, integrating AI-based solutions into national agricultural policies could foster large-scale implementation and sustainability.
Beyond agriculture, Hyphen Tech aspires to be a leader in AI-driven solutions across multiple sectors, including business and healthcare. The company aims to extend its impact beyond Burundi, contributing to a more technologically advanced and connected Africa.
“Our mission is to harness the power of technology to improve lives and drive sustainable economic development,” Elie concludes. “With the right support, AI has the potential to shape a better future for Africa.”
