Sido rolls out farm technologies to boost productivity

Mbeya. The Small Industries Development Organisation (Sido) in Mbeya Region has unveiled locally developed agricultural technologies aimed at helping farmers adopt modern tools and reduce reliance on costly imports.

The move follows growing demand for farm equipment, particularly during the planting season, which has forced many farmers to rely on hand hoes and hired labour.

Speaking to journalists on Tuesday April 28, 2026, Sido Technology Development Centre workshop engineer Fredy Mapunda said the innovations are expected to reach at least 2,190 farmers across the Southern Highlands zone.

He said the initiative supports government efforts to modernise the agriculture sector by providing practical, long-term solutions that enable farmers to shift away from traditional tools.

“The use of improved agricultural technologies will enable farmers to prepare land, weed and plant within a shorter time. This will help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure a steady supply of raw materials for industries,” he said.

Mr Mapunda added that the centre’s strategy focuses on addressing key challenges in the agriculture sector while equipping farmers with knowledge and access to modern production technologies.

“On average, we receive between six and 10 farmers per day, translating to about 2,190 annually. However, demand continues to grow as more farmers seek different types of modern equipment tailored to their needs,” he said.

Sido Mbeya regional manager Ms Salma Galasi said the initiative is part of broader efforts to transform agriculture by promoting the use of efficient production tools

.“These technologies are already reaching areas beyond the Southern Highlands, including neighbouring countries such as Malawi and Zambia,” she said.

She added that Sido will continue conducting outreach programmes, particularly in rural areas, to ensure farmers benefit from accessible and affordable technologies.

“We are focusing on education and awareness to ensure communities, especially in villages, can adopt these simple but effective technologies to improve production,” she said.

Meanwhile, the centre’s chief technician, Mr Japhet Mwakasonda, said the initiative aims to phase out the use of hand hoes by encouraging farmers to embrace mechanised solutions.

“The goal is to enable farmers to increase productivity, add value to their produce and meet the growing demand for industrial raw materials,” he said.

Farmers have welcomed the initiative, saying it will improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Mr Daniel Mturo, a farmer from Iwindi village in Mbeya District, said the technologies have motivated farmers to increase productivity.

“Previously, we incurred high costs importing equipment or hiring labour, which delayed land preparation and planting. These technologies will save both time and money,” he said.