Country: Malawi
Big Bet: Enable the next generation of farmers and innovators by combining autonomous farming technologies, AI-powered simulation tools, and hands-on training to increase productivity, strengthen food security, and build climate-resilient production systems.
Project: The Kwathu Kollective is developing a new model for agricultural innovation through Kwathu Smart Innovation Farms, combining autonomous farming technologies, digital simulation tools, and hands-on learning environments. The initiative integrates smart greenhouses, small autonomous farming robots known as “Bee,” and an interactive simulation platform that enables farmers, students, and communities to experiment with crop management, water use, and climate adaptation before implementing decisions in the field.
By linking real-world farming systems with digital twins, the project will enable more informed decision-making and create a practical training ground for the next generation of agricultural innovators. Designed to be replicated across multiple communities, Kwathu Smart Innovation Farms aims to increase productivity, strengthen rural livelihoods, and demonstrate how emerging cyber-physical technologies can support resilient, locally driven production systems across emerging markets.
Nthanda Manduwi is a systems entrepreneur, storyteller, and creative economy leader working at the intersection of technology, infrastructure, and knowledge systems. She is the founder of Q2 Systems, a cyber-physical infrastructure company developing digital twins, simulation platforms, and autonomous systems for emerging markets, and Bien Corporation, a creative and publishing studio. She also founded the non-profits Ntha Foundation and Kwathu Kollective, initiatives advancing digital skills, creativity, and youth development across Africa, Asia, and the United States. Her experience spans the United Nations, Microsoft (Xbox), and global development programs with partners including the European Union and World Bank. Nthanda holds an MBA in Marketing Management and Business Analytics from the Michigan State University, a MSc in Entrepreneurship in Digital Transformation, and Bachelor’s in Economics and Demography. In 2026, she is establishing the headquarters of Q2 Systems in Detroit, as a Detroit Tech Fellow.