tech
This drone manufacturer wants to protect Africa’s power, mining and oil assets
Attacks on Africa’s critical infrastructure are not uncommon. In 2025, insurgent militant groups led to a temporary shutdown of a tin mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo and fighting in Sudan’s civil war caused a blaze at the country’s largest oil refinery.
TL;DR
- Attacks on critical infrastructure in Africa disrupt local economies and deter foreign investment.
- Nigerian startup Terra Industries is creating AI-powered drones and autonomous security systems to protect vital assets.
- The company's factory in Abuja can produce 30,000 drones annually, including surveillance and ground surveillance vehicles.
- Terra Industries won a $1.2 million contract to secure two hydroelectric power plants in Nigeria.
- The company exports drones to eight African countries and Canada, protecting an estimated $11 billion in assets.
- Terra Industries prioritizes in-house development of software (ArtemisOS) and hardware to ensure data security and reduce costs.
- The startup partners with local firms like PipeOps to maintain data sovereignty within Africa.
- Manufacturing in Africa is cheaper, allowing Terra Industries to offer hardware at lower prices than international competitors.