Agricultural mechanisation is an essential step for every farmer today, primarily for two reasons: the need for greater efficiency and the ability to complete tasks in the shortest time possible while maximising farm output.
However, to fully benefit from mechanised agricultural tools, one crucial step must not be overlooked—understanding your needs.
John Ndiwalana, the director of RNJ Power Centre, a dealer in all kinds of agricultural mechanisation equipment and an exhibitor at the recently concluded Harvest Money Expo, highlighted a common mistake among farmers.
He noted that many invest in equipment without fully understanding their needs or planning ahead.
“The problem is that people often wait until the dry season arrives before seeking solutions, but it is better to plan in advance for the upcoming seasons,” Ndiwalana explained.
He further elaborated: “For example, a cattle farmer preparing for a dry spell needs to determine which machine to buy to produce the best silage for their animals. Similarly, a poultry farmer may require a suitable machine to efficiently process maize bran or broken maize.”
Ndiwalana also pointed out that poor planning and a lack of understanding can lead farmers to purchase substandard machinery.
“Today, if you need a genuine water pump but find it beyond your budget, lack of early preparation may force you to settle for a poor-quality pump, which might not serve you for long,” he warned.
Where to start
Every journey begins with a single step, and agricultural mechanisation is no different.
Nicholas Masiko, the managing director of High Mark Uganda Limited, advises farmers to start small.
“Mechanisation should be gradual. You don’t have to invest heavily all at once. Start small and expand as your capacity grows. For instance, if you are using a hand-held panga to chop silage for a cow that consumes 70 kilograms of feed, the task becomes overwhelming. However, with a simple machine, you can process enough silage for ten cows within an hour,” he said.
