ATDC Siakago has emerged as a crucial collaborator, working closely with AFICAT and JICA Advisor, to address challenges and gaps within the rice value chain in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme. Through a series of strategic initiatives, these organizations have integrated partners to offer sustainable solutions that significantly impact the local rice farming community. This article delves into the key activities undertaken by ATDC Siakago in collaboration with AFICAT and JICA Advisor, highlighting innovative approaches aimed at revolutionizing the rice value chain in Mwea and beyond.
Seminar on Moisture Meters
One notable initiative involved a seminar on moisture meters conducted by KETT Electric Company in both Nairobi and Mwea. The primary goal was to introduce state-of-the-art moisture measurement devices to rice farmers in the Mwea Scheme, ultimately optimizing the rice harvesting process. These devices, currently on lease to Mwea Rice Growers Multipurpose Co-operative Society Limited (MRGM), have proven invaluable, particularly during peak harvesting periods. As part of the ongoing strategy, the devices are scheduled to be transported to National Cereals and Produce Board (NCPB) Sagana, extending their impact beyond Mwea and further contributing to the efficiency of the rice value chain.
Telematic Devices for Farm Machinery Monitoring
In collaboration with Sumitomo Corporation of Japan, the JICA Advisor spearheaded the introduction of remote monitoring devices for farm machinery. These devices, essential for efficient monitoring and management of farm operations, focus on key parameters such as fuel consumption, downtime, and maintenance alerts. Six-month trials were conducted with farm tractors, combine harvesters, and excavators for both MRGM and private service providers within the Mwea Irrigation Scheme. The results indicated the effectiveness of these telematic devices, providing valuable insights for investment decisions in farm machinery and equipment. The successful trial period highlighted the potential for widespread adoption within the rice farming community.
Enhancing Combine Harvester Efficiency with Quality Belts
Collaborating with Bando Chemical Industries, the JICA Advisor and ATDC Siakago introduced high-quality belts for combine harvesters operating within the Mwea Irrigation Scheme. Specifically targeting models such as FM World and KUBOTA DC 70, two sets of belts were installed and monitored over a six-month period. The ongoing positive feedback from service providers attests to the success of this collaborative effort in enhancing the efficiency and reliability of combine harvesters in the region.
Seminar on EBARA Pumps East Africa
Through a collaborative effort involving the JICA Advisor, ATDC Siakago, and EBARA Pumps East Africa, a seminar was organized to showcase some of the world's best pumps manufactured by EBARA. The Japanese company expressed interest in establishing dealership arrangements with Kenyan companies to introduce and market their products in the local market. This initiative not only promotes international collaboration but also presents opportunities for local businesses to benefit from cutting-edge pump technology.
Mechanized Rice Transplanting for Increased Efficiency
Rice transplanting in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme, traditionally a labor-intensive process, witnessed a transformative change through the collaborative efforts of JICA Advisor, ATDC Siakago, and KiliMOL, a Japanese company specializing in the distribution of second-hand farm machinery. Demonstrations of mechanized rice transplanters, including ride-on and walk-behind models, showcased remarkable efficiency improvements, reducing transplanting time to approximately 45 minutes per acre compared to 10 to 16 laborers working 18 hours manually. This innovation marks a significant advancement in reducing drudgery in rice transplanting, promising to reshape the landscape of the rice value chain in Mwea and other schemes across the country.
Follow-Up Project for Small Machinery
Under the FU Project, the JICA Advisor has undertaken a follow-up project to procure small-scale machinery for ATDC Siakago. This initiative aims to support prominent SMEs involved in various value chains within the mandate region. The objective is to test a business model that facilitates Japanese companies in introducing their machinery to local SMEs and machinery traders, contributing to the availability and accessibility of advanced machinery in the Kenyan market. This forward-thinking approach aligns with the broader vision of sustainable development and technology transfer within the agricultural sector.
The collaborative efforts between ATDC Siakago, AFICAT, and JICA Advisor have ushered in a new era of innovation and sustainability in the Mwea Irrigation Scheme's rice value chain. From advanced moisture meters to telematic devices and mechanized transplanting, these initiatives not only address existing challenges but also pave the way for enhanced productivity and efficiency. As these transformative projects continue to unfold, the ripple effects are poised to impact not only Mwea but also serve as a model for sustainable agricultural practices nationwide.