The Council members of Egerton University led by Chairman Prof. James K. Sang, today, were shown the progress on the locally-assembled fit-for-purpose tractor being developed in partnership with IROC Tractors and Agypro International.
The prototype unit is currently running on a 22-horsepower engine, with engineers and students calibrating its performance for Kenya’s diverse terrain.
"This is a great innovation taking place here at the University. It is quite impressive," said Prof. Sang as they viewed the prototype outside the Chancellors Chambers.
This innovation, led by the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, is part of the institution’s drive to support affordable mechanisation for small-holder farmers.
During the demonstration, the University Council emphasised a key condition: despite local assembly, the unit cost must be competitive with global standards, or ideally more affordable, to ensure uptake by Kenyan farmers.
Technicians showcased the tractor’s chassis, engine fit-out, hydraulics and operator platform, noting that modular design and local parts sourcing are expected to lower production costs and simplify maintenance.
The Council encouraged the engineering team to refine the cost-structure and proceed to field testing without delay. They also underscored the wider benefit: a locally-assembled tractor could boost local industry, create jobs and enhance mechanisation in agriculture.
The university led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage (Secretary to the Council) reaffirmed its commitment to bringing the model to commercial readiness and to support rollout of service hubs for farmers nationwide.
Council Chair Prof. James K. Sang, who led the delegation, was accompanied by Vice-Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage (Member/Secretary), Mr. Julius K. Mutua (Member), Dr. Paul M. Mwangi (Member), Mr. Christopher O. (Member), Mr. Charles N. (Member), Ms. Brenda N. (Member), and Hon. Gideon (Member) and Mohamed Ahmed Mohammed (Member).
