Zombo leaders urge shift in farmer mindset as donated tractors sit idle
The town council has even dismantled the tires from the tractors and stored them to prevent deterioration.
Zombo: Local leaders in Zombo District are calling for a change in the mindset of smallholder farmers who are hesitant to use walking tractors recently provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF).
The tractors were intended to boost agricultural productivity, but many farmers are resisting adoption due to operational costs and the difficulty of handling the machines.
Across the district’s 15 lower local government units, reports show that farmers are rejecting the use of the two-wheel tractors, despite the government’s aim to modernize farming.
Zombo District received 30 walking tractors last year, with each lower local government unit allocated two tractors. These were expected to enhance mechanized farming, making land preparation, tillage, and crop management more efficient.
However, Melki Onyutha Orwothuwun, the LCIII Chairperson of Padea Town Council, explained that since the tractors’ arrival, no farmers have shown interest in using them.
The town council has even dismantled the tires from the tractors and stored them to prevent deterioration.
The walking tractor is a single-axle, operator-guided machine that is more affordable and versatile than larger, four-wheeled tractors. It is designed for tasks like plowing, harrowing, and hauling, and agricultural experts emphasize its affordability and adaptability for smallholder farmers.
Douglas Rupiny, the District Councillor for Padea Town Council, noted that the tractors are not only suitable for plowing but also for transporting harvests and serving as power sources for tasks like milling.
Despite these advantages, farmers remain reluctant to adopt the technology. The key barriers cited by local leaders include high fuel costs, limited accessibility, and the challenges associated with operating the machinery.
Although adoption has been slow, there are encouraging signs in certain areas. In Paidha Sub-County, more than 20 farmers have begun using the tractors, and demand is steadily rising.
LCIII Chairperson William Okethi reported that the community’s interest is growing, particularly in Otheko and Cana Parishes. As the number of farmers vying for limited tractors increases, there are hopes that the shift toward mechanization will gain momentum.
Farmers like Albert Ngabirombu from Warr Town Council cited high fuel costs and operational difficulty as major deterrents.
Jerose Acika, a farmer from Mundhel, expressed concern about the distance to the sub-county headquarters, where the tractors are stored, and suggested that bringing the equipment closer to the community could encourage greater use.
Despite the current resistance, there is a concerted effort by local leaders and the government to change attitudes and make mechanization more accessible to farmers.
Patrick Anenuiu, the Zombo District Agricultural Officer, urged the community to embrace the tractors, stressing their potential to increase productivity and improve livelihoods.
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