What FAO does
Developing national and regional strategies in support of sustainable mechanization with governments and institutions
Defining the roles of all stakeholders is key. This includes public sector institutions, private sector organizations and companies, and hire services. FAO provides support for the development of mechanization strategies and strengthening of public sector capacity for informed decision making; fostering public-private dialogue to implement models that define their roles, upscale mechanization practices and improve access to equipment; guiding financial investment in mechanization; training farmers, extension officers and mechanization hire service providers; and facilitating the development of small-scale enterprises, cooperatives and local organizations to ensure access and uptake of mechanization services, especially for smallholder farmers.
Identifying appropriate business models in collaboration with farmers for hire services development
FAO identifies viable business models, builds capacity, provides related training materials, and supports the development of an enabling environment for private sector involvement and development so that farmers can set up hire service businesses offering animal and/or motor powered mechanized services.
Ensuring quality equipment that is appropriate for the type of intervention
FAO ensures that equipment used or required by its programmes and projects meets quality standards and is appropriate for the type of intervention. FAO is also involved in activities emanating from emergency situations. In such situations, beneficiaries are provided with basic kits – containing seeds, fertilizer and a hand tool (usually a hoe, a sickle or other) – to enable them to start up farming operations as soon as possible.
Facilitating south-south collaboration
FAO aims to increase knowledge exchange on agricultural equipment and sustainable practices by fostering partnerships with public and private sector institutions that promote innovation and build on existing technology. FAO provides technical assistance to projects and programmes to implement sustainable agricultural mechanization practices adapted to the local context.