Department Mechanization, Technology &innovation

Department Of Mechanization, Technology and Innovation

Background of The department

The Department of Mechanization, Technology, and Innovation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation plays a pivotal role in advancing Somalia's agricultural sector. It is responsible for spearheading initiatives that integrate modern technologies, mechanization solutions, and innovative practices into agricultural operations. The department’s primary goal is to enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience by ensuring access to cutting-edge technology and machinery tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities in Somalia’s agricultural landscape. By fostering innovation and adopting globally recognized best practices, the department strives to empower farmers, improve livelihoods, and contribute to national food security.

MR: Dirie Abdi Mohamed

Director Of Mechanization, Technology and Innovation

[email protected]

Mandate

The Department of Mechanization, Technology, and Innovation in the Ministry of Agriculture and Irrigation is tasked with promoting modern agricultural practices through the adoption of advanced machinery, innovative technologies, and digital solutions. Its mandate includes facilitating access to mechanized tools, improving efficiency in farming operations, and enhancing productivity. The department also supports research and development of cutting-edge agricultural technologies and provides training to farmers on their effective use. By fostering innovation, it aims to modernize agriculture, reduce labor intensity, and contribute to sustainable economic growth.

Advocate for and facilitate the adoption of appropriate agricultural machinery to enhance productivity, efficiency, and reduce dependency on manual labor in farming operations.

Introduce digital tools such as mobile apps, digital platforms, drones, remote sensing, and GPS-guided machinery to farmers.

Provide technical training for farmers, technicians, and operators on the operation, maintenance, and repair of agricultural machinery.

Develop and implement policies that foster public-private partnerships (PPPs) and attract investment in agricultural mechanization while addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by Somali farmers.

Conduct practical demonstrations of modern agricultural machinery and technologies, showcasing their labour-saving, productivity-enhancing, and efficiency benefits to farmers.

Test and certify agricultural machinery to ensure compliance with safety, quality, and performance standards before market introduction or farmer use.

The department collaborates with private sector partners, NGOs, and international organizations to promote investment in agricultural mechanization and technological innovations. It also facilitates joint ventures and partnerships to strengthen the role of technology in Somalia’s agricultural development.

Promote the transfer and adoption of modern agricultural technologies and best practices, ensuring they are adapted to local conditions for maximum impact.

Promote the use of precision agriculture techniques that use digital data to optimize farm operations, such as soil moisture monitoring, weather forecasting, and crop health monitoring.

Provide hands-on training on technologies such as mobile apps, drone operation and sensor-based systems for farmers.

Promote and introduce appropriate processing technologies for smallholder farmers and agro-processors.

Advocate for technologies and practices that can reduce postharvest losses.

Our Vision

To create a modern, sustainable, and resilient agricultural sector powered by innovation, technology, and mechanization, contributing to national food security and economic prosperity.

Our Mission

To enhance agricultural productivity, reduce postharvest losses, and promote sustainable practices through the adoption of advanced mechanization, digital technologies, agro processing innovations, and renewable energy solutions

Roles and Responsibilities of the Department

Department Director

Develop and implement strategies for advancing agricultural mechanization and technology adoption.
Oversee research and innovation programs to introduce modern farming tools and techniques.
Provide leadership in developing policies to support agricultural innovation and mechanization.
Collaborate with stakeholders, including private sector partners, to promote investment in agricultural technology.
Ensure effective capacity-building programs for farmers and staff on mechanized farming and digital solutions.
Monitor and evaluate the impact of mechanization projects on agricultural productivity and sustainability.
Advocate for funding and resources to support mechanization and innovation initiatives.
Represent the department in national and international forums related to agricultural technology and innovation.
Ensure alignment of mechanization and technology programs with the ministry’s overall goals.
Address challenges and opportunities in mechanization and technology adoption within the agricultural sector.

Section of Agricultural Mechanization

Assess and introduce machinery suitable for Somali farming systems.
Establish maintenance hubs and service centres for agricultural equipment.
Train farmers and technicians in machinery operation and safety.
Test and certify agricultural machinery to ensure that it meets safety, quality, and performance standards before introduction to the market or use by farmers.
Collaborate with the international manufacturers and local dealers ensure access to affordable equipment.

Section of Smart Agriculture & Innovation

Implement smart farming practices such as precision irrigation, climate-controlled systems, and soil health monitoring with sensors.
Foster innovation through partnerships with research institutions and startups.
Pilot and scale up innovative agricultural techniques and technologies.
Monitor and evaluate the adoption of smart agriculture practices in the country.

Section of Agro-processing & Postharvest Technology

Develop guidelines for improved postharvest handling, storage, and transportation.
Promote agro-processing technologies to add value to raw agricultural produce.
Train farmers on best practices in postharvest management.
Facilitate market linkages for processed and value-added products.

Section of Digital Agriculture & Technology Transfer

Develop and implement precision agriculture solutions, such as IoT, GIS and Variable Rate Technology (VRT)
Facilitate the transfer of digital and mechanical technologies to farmers and agribusinesses.
Provide data-driven insights for farm management and resource optimization.
Collaborate with local and global tech providers to localize solutions.

Department Of Mechanization, Technology and Innovation

Background of The department

MR: Dirie Abdi Mohamed

Mandate

Our Vision

Our Mission

Roles and Responsibilities of the Department

Structure department

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