Nakuru: Egerton University has unveiled a new campaign aimed at promoting the adoption of mechanised farming technology among women and youth smallholder farmers to enhance the production and quality of their agricultural output. The initiative is designed to establish public-private partnerships that will support the creation of mechanisation hubs, connecting service providers with female smallholder farmers who lack access to agricultural machinery.
According to Kenya News Agency, the university is collaborating with IROC Tractors and Agypro International to set up a local tractor assembly unit at Egerton University. This project is expected to facilitate the sale of tractor parts and fully assembled units to local farmers, providing them with opportunities to embrace improved mechanised food production methods. The initiative also aims to make farming more appealing to the younger generation while increasing yields.
Vice Chancellor Professor Isaac Kibwage emphasized that the project aligns with BETA’s commitment to boosting agricultural productivity and expanding economic opportunities for grassroots communities. By empowering youth and women in small-scale farming with access to mechanised farming techniques, Egerton University is working to strengthen Kenya’s food security and stimulate rural economies through practical skill development. The delegation from IROC Tractors and Agypro International includes Jacylyn Schess, Mike Christensen from Rupert, Idaho, USA, Emmanuel Juma, Country Manager of Agypro Kenya, and Bill Bough Miller of Agypro International.
Professor Kibwage highlighted that technological advancements have led to the production of lighter and more affordable machines, enabling women smallholder farmers to revolutionise agriculture in terms of both the quantity and quality of products grown and processed. He noted that the perception of mechanisation as a practice only for large-scale farming is misguided and poses a threat to Kenya’s food security.
The Vice Chancellor also emphasized the need for traders and dealers in agricultural machinery to equip smallholder farmers with the necessary technical skills to operate and maintain the machinery. This will be achieved through field days, workshops, farm visits, and seminars, enabling farmers to become commercially successful. Additionally, he encouraged dealers and manufacturers to design products targeting small-scale farmers with simplicity and reliability in mind.
Professor Kibwage further stressed the importance of asset financing tailored to the needs of both smallholders and large-scale farmers. He encouraged dealers to incorporate training for new machinery owners, ensuring that buyers can maximize the use of their equipment. Director of Marketing and Resource Mobilisation Professor Nzula Kitaka added that mechanised farming significantly improves harvesting efficiency, reduces costs, and lowers post-harvest losses by 20% compared to manual methods.
The World Bank report on Agribusiness Indicators highlights that mechanisation levels in Kenya remain low, with only about three tractors per 1,000 hectares. Despite the potential of mechanisation to transform agriculture, access remains limited due to high capital requirements. The report suggests that where smallholder farmers have access to mechanisation, maximizing the potential of agricultural machines is crucial for maintaining profitability.
Professor Kitaka emphasized the need for modern technology in agriculture, especially as Africa’s population is expected to double by 2050. She pointed out that embracing mechanised farming is essential for boosting productivity and profitability, urging youthful entrepreneurs to seize opportunities in Kenya’s agricultural mechanisation sector.
Mr. Bill Bough Miller of Agypro International noted that mechanised farming contributes to efficient land preparation, increased production, and reduced costs. He advocated for equipping female smallholder farmers with the skills needed to operate and maintain machinery, ensuring their commercial success.
Despite the challenges, Kenya’s agricultural sector has made strides in mechanisation, with several initiatives and programs promoting the use of modern farming techniques. However, the uptake of mechanisation remains low across sub-Saharan Africa, with a continued reliance on manual labour. To address these issues, the country requires strategic investments in agricultural mechanisation services, technology adoption, and institutional support to enhance productivity and food security.