The role, shortcomings and future strategy of agricultural machinery testing in Kenya

Appropriate agricultural mechanization should be based on rational acquisition, utilization and maintenance of machinery units and systems to minimize operation costs and optimize performance in respective operations. Consequently, machinery testing is the best basis for selection, utilization and sustainance of appropriate machinery. This paper outlines the status of agricultural machinery testing in Kenya, with emphasis on the deficiency in its role in encouraging efficient selection and utilization, local innovation and manufacture, and in technology transfer as a whole. The revitalization of agricultural machinery testing as part of a strategy for self-sufficiency in agricultural production, and the necessary infrastructural support required for development of National Testing Standards are proposed. While strategy for agricultural machinery technology development and transer for Kenya is presented, the same may apply to most developing countries.