Future Scenario/ Directions

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) states that the fundamental requirement for a sustainable agricultural mechanization sector is a strong linkage between the different parties. For those in the private sector, the ideal future outcomes of agricultural mechanization plans would be:

Farmers accessibility to the widest choice of appropriate farm tools, machinery and equipment at affordable prices as well as access to spare parts and service to allow the farmer to make the best choice available to suit his own business. Availability of credit to allow purchase of these inputs. Availability of information and accessible sources of advice to assist him to make the correct choice and existence of legislation to protect him from commercial exploitation.

Retailers and Wholesalers require a suitable competitive, commercial environment in which to develop their businesses. This involves access to commercial credit for business development and cash flow purposes, a stable market in which to sell their products, access to business development assistance, and removal of any unfair competition from the state.

Manufacturers require access to a stable supply of raw materials at stable prices, access to credit for business development and cash flow, foreign exchange, and good communications, a stable market, contacts with potential overseas partners/licensers, access to market information, assistance with product research and development, assistance with production engineering etc.

Importers require a suitable competitive, commercial environment in which to develop their businesses. This will include access to foreign exchange at undistorted rates, foreign contacts, removal of any unfair competition from the state, marketing assistance, and access to credit for business and cash flow development.

The role of the government sector is to provide assistance in terms of policy support; research and development; testing of farm machinery; education, training, and extension; mechanization departments/organizational structure; and consumer protection.