The government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting farmers in accessing machinery services to bolster production and enhance food security.
Agriculture Principal Secretary Paul Ronoh said the government will strive to transform farming practices to improve efficiency in agricultural processes.
"As a government, we are ready to provide the necessary support to farmers to ensure they have access to modern machinery, which will ultimately contribute to increased productivity and food security," Ronoh said.
The PS made the remarks during the launch of Mahindra tractors in partnership with Simba Colt Aspire Ltd.
The event, held in Nairobi, was attended by various dignitaries, including Industry PS Juma Mukhwana, Busia Governor Paul Otwoma, Indian High Commissioner Namgya C. Khampa, and representatives from Simba Corp Group.
Otuoma shared insights into the county's participation in the initiative.
He said his administration has already rolled out the service, aiming to utilise tractors to till 20,000 acres of land, benefiting nearly 150,000 registered farming households.
Otuoma emphasised the importance of proper mechanised tilling, complemented by agricultural extension services and subsidised farm inputs.
"For the efforts to monetise rural communities through the Ward-Based Economic Revitalization program, proper mechanised tilling, agricultural extension services, and subsidised farm inputs are crucial," said Otuoma.
Farmers seeking the mechanization service in the county must 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.
The programme 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 is a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and local authorities to revolutionise agricultural practices and promote food security in the country.
