The government’s push to enhance food security and reduce food imports has received a major boost from private sector investments in farm mechanisation.
To serve the Coast region, home to multi-billion-shilling flagship projects such as the Galana-Kulalu project spanning Kilifi and Tana River counties, and the Mwache multi-purpose dam in Kwale County, CFAO Kenya has opened a new Case IH agricultural machinery showroom in Mombasa.
The outlet, the fifth full-service CFAO Kenya branch in the country, will enable coastal farmers to access timely service and support, enhancing operational efficiency and productivity.
Mombasa County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Blue Economy, Cooperatives, Agriculture and Livestock, Ibrahim Mutwafy, described the expansion to the Coast as both strategic and visionary.
“Today’s launch is not just about opening a new branch; it marks a significant step in advancing agricultural mechanisation in our county, unlocking opportunities, driving innovation, and catalyzing economic transformation across Mombasa and the wider Coast region,” said Mutwafy.
He noted that mechanisation shifts agriculture from manual, labor-intensive practices to smart, technology-driven production.
“For many years, Mombasa has been known for port logistics, tourism and trade. However, we must diversify our economy. Mechanized agriculture is key to building a more resilient county, one that creates jobs, strengthens rural livelihoods and enhances food security,” he said.
The CECM challenged farmers to embrace technology and modern machinery to increase food production and cut reliance on imports.
“Mombasa remains a net food importer. That must change. While we may not have vast tracts of land, we have innovation, vibrant cooperatives and farmers ready to maximize productivity. Appropriate machinery for small- and medium-scale farming can significantly increase yields, reduce post-harvest losses and ensure fresher supplies to our markets.”
He also urged youth to embrace agribusiness, noting that agriculture has long been perceived as back-breaking, outdated and unattractive.
“With modern technology and precision systems, farming becomes smart, efficient and appealing to young people. We want our youth to view agribusiness not as a last resort, but as a viable, profitable and even ‘cool’ career,” he said.
Mutwafy added that the new branch positions Mombasa as a mechanisation service hub for the Coast region, allowing farmers in neighbouring counties to access genuine parts, technical support and after-sales services closer to home, reducing downtime and increasing productivity.
He further encouraged CFAO Kenya to partner with local TVET institutions to train operators and technicians, ensuring global technology is backed by local expertise.
Vincent DeLassange, Vice President of CNH Middle East and Africa, said Kenya remains one of Africa’s most dynamic agricultural markets, and the investment reflects the company’s confidence in supporting key advances in food security.
“We are keen to build partnerships with Kenyan farmers and support the country’s agricultural transformation through world-class technology and continuous technical support,” said DeLassange.
CFAO Group Chairman and Country Delegate Ambassador Dennis Awori said the Mombasa showroom represents a strong vote of confidence in Kenya’s agricultural sector and the city’s strategic position as a gateway to East Africa.
“CFAO Group’s investment in this world-class facility demonstrates our long-term commitment to equipping Kenyan farmers with the technology and services they need to compete globally. Agricultural mechanisation is fundamental to achieving food security, creating employment and driving rural prosperity across the nation,” said Awori.
Case IH Agriculture’s tractor portfolio ranges from 55 to 700 horsepower, offering Kenyan farmers a wide selection across five distinct series tailored to diverse agricultural needs.
By Sadik Hassan
