The world’s largest tractor manufacturer by volume Mahindra Tractors has partnered with Simba Colt Aspire Ltd. to strengthen its presence in the Kenyan agriculture market.
Simba Colt Aspire Ltd has been appointed as the main distributor for Mahindra Tractors in Kenya to enhance the farming experience for smallholder farmers through the provision of a comprehensive range of reliable and high-performance tractors.
Speaking during the launch that was officiated by the Principal Secretary for Crop Development and Agricultural Research Dr. Paul Rono, Simba Corporation Group Chief Executive Dinesh Kotecha urged the government to zero rate the 16 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) currently levied on farm implements, among other incentives for farmers.
“Our commitment to empower farmers is aligned with government initiatives aimed at supporting small-scale and medium-sized farmers to mechanize. Zero rating VAT on farm implements, same as tractors which don’t attract any duty or VAT, will encourage mechanization by reducing the cost of acquisition of the various additional implements a farmer would need for a complete end-to-end solution in land preparation and management”, said Kotecha.
Kotecha added that any financial incentives extended to farmers towards mechanisation would be beneficial to the economy through job creation and other multiplier effects that would accrue in various crop value chains.
What Mahindra tractors will be available to small-scale farmers?
Mahindra Tractors will now be available in Kenya in three variants offering 25 Horsepower (HP), 75 HP, and 92 HP, namely Mahindra 2025, Mahindra 6075, and Mahindra 9200 respectively.
Speaking at the launch, PS Rono commended Simba Corporation and Mahindra for the partnership which he said was an indicator of the private sector’s confidence in the local economy, and in particular agricultural development opportunities in the country.
“I am happy to note that Mahindra Tractors, renowned for its cutting-edge technology, robust design, and fuel-efficient engines, is keen on supporting and empowering Kenyan farmers, both large and small.
This will go a long way in supporting government efforts to put more land into productive use, build a robust and efficient agricultural sector, while also improving farmer livelihoods and contributing to economic growth”, he said.
On his part, the Group Managing Director of the Motor Division at Simba Corporation Naresh Leekha said the partnership with Mahindra introduces a new era of efficiency, reliability, and innovation to the Kenyan agricultural sector, promising to revolutionize farming practices in the country.
He added that Simba Colt Aspire Ltd has already identified key markets in the western, Nyanza, Narok, Nakuru, and Mombasa regions, with immediate roll-out plans in the country that averages about 1,500 tractor sales annually.
“We are delighted to bring Mahindra Tractors which are simply tough and efficient to the Kenyan market in partnership with Simba Corporation Ltd. This collaboration aims to strengthen the accessibility of Mahindra Tractors across Kenya and ensure prompt service and support. We aim to be the top choice of farmers in Kenya”, said Kedar Apte, the Chief of International Operations, Farm Equipment Sector at Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd.
How accessible will the tractors be?
Mahindra Tractors will be offered through Simba Colt Aspire Ltd’s six branches across Kenya located in Nairobi, Kisumu, Narok, Kisii, Mombasa, and Nyeri as well as 3 tractor dealers located in Nakuru, Kericho, and Nairobi.
All Mahindra Tractors in Kenya will be offered with an industry-leading warranty of 3 years or 3000 hours, from the time of purchase.
