NAIROBI, Kenya Feb 17 – The government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers access machinery services to bolster production and enhance food security in the country.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh emphasized the pivotal role of mechanization services in boosting agricultural productivity during the launch of Mahindra Tractors in partnership with Simba Colt Aspire Ltd.
This, he noted, helps in transforming farming practices while improving efficiency in agricultural processes.
“As government, we are ready to provide the necessary support to farmers to ensure they have access to modern machinery, ultimately contributing to increased productivity and food security,” Ronoh said.
The event, held in Nairobi, was attended by various dignitaries, including Industry Juma Mukhwana, Busia Governor Paul Otwoma, Indian High Commissioner Namgya C. Khampa, and representatives from SimbaCorp Group.
Busia Governor Paul Otuoma, present at the event, shared insights into the county’s participation in the initiative.
His administration has already rolled out the service, aiming to utilize tractors to till 20,000 acres of land, benefiting close to 150,000 registered farming households.
Otuoma emphasized the importance of proper mechanized tilling, complemented by agricultural extension services and subsidized farm inputs, aligning with the ward-based economic revitalization program.
“For the efforts to monetize rural communities through the Ward-Based Economic Revitalization program, proper mechanized tilling, agricultural extension services, and subsidized farm inputs are crucial,” said Otuoma.
The initiative seeks to enhance rural livelihoods and agricultural practices, fostering sustainable development.
Farmers seeking the mechanization service in the county are required to prepare their farms and register at the ward agricultural offices by paying Sh2,500 for each acre.
This cost covers the use of the tractor for ploughing, and the program aims to achieve a production target of 20-25 bags of maize per acre, contributing significantly to increased agricultural yields and the overall well-being of farming communities.
The launch signifies a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and local authorities to revolutionize agricultural practices and promote food security in the country.
