Locally assembled tractors to help farmers

Accra, Sept. 20, GNA - A locally assembled tractor was on Wednesday put on display for assessment and adoption by Ghanaian farmers. Assembling of the RT-22 High Speed Tractor by the Agricultural Engineering Services of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture with help from Mr Roger Stevenson, an English Consultant; is in line with the Government's policy to modernize agriculture.

The tractor made of a legendary Lister engine also has matching accessories including two discs ploughs, disc harrow, miller and a ton-tipping trailer.

Mr Stevenson said the tractor was multi-purpose and could serve as a plough, cultivator, grain processor and a harvester. There is also a ready access to spare parts for easy maintenance. He noted that Ghana was in a unique position in the West Africa Sub-Region and noted that production of agricultural equipment like the RT-22 Tractor could benefit the country immensely.

Ms Anna Nyamekye, Deputy Minister of Food and Agriculture in charge of livestock, said she was impressed with the machine, especially the miller, and expressed the hope that assembling the tractor in Ghana could give jobs to the youth.

Mr Joseph Kwasi Boamah, Director of Agriculture Engineering Services, said the tractor had a capacity to plough about a hectare a day.

He said it could be used effectively on flat lands and old farms for the production of vegetables and other crops. "This technology offers a one-stop solution to small and medium-scale farmers for on farm and off farm applications and municipal waste management."