Guatemala has introduced SAICA, an automated information and control system designed to strengthen agricultural biosecurity measures at La Aurora International Airport. The robot is part of a joint effort by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA) and the Regional International Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA), complementing the work of canine units that inspect travelers’ luggage.
SAICA will move through various airport areas, providing passengers with information about which agricultural products are prohibited from entering the country. The robot is also equipped to collect items that could pose health risks, helping prevent the introduction of pests and diseases that affect agriculture and livestock.
According to officials, SAICA offers "innovation, closeness, and an educational experience for travelers who visit or return to the country. Its presence seeks to capture public attention and make prevention a clearer and more memorable process." They added: "Thanks to creative, close, and multilingual interaction, SAICA demonstrates how technology can become a valuable ally in protecting agricultural health."
The initiative is part of MAGA’s commitment to continuous improvement in biosecurity. As stated in the announcement: "With this initiative, MAGA reaffirms its commitment to innovation, biosecurity, and continuous improvement, moving towards a modern, intelligent, and more efficient protection model. SAICA is a firm step towards a future where technology serves the country and its agricultural heritage."
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