Husqvarna Empowers Small-Scale Farmers with Smart Equipment Guide for Growth
Small-scale farmers across Africa are being urged to adopt a smarter approach to equipment selection, thanks to a new campaign launched by Husqvarna South Africa. Titled Gearing Up for Growth, the initiative aims to boost productivity, reduce costs, and improve yields by helping farmers make informed decisions about the tools they use.
According to Brad Barthorpe, Sales Manager – Distributor Africa for Husqvarna South Africa, one of the most common challenges small-scale farmers face is knowing which equipment is most suitable for their specific tasks.
“Efficient equipment management means using the right tool for the right job,” he explained. “This reduces manual effort, saves time, and ensures farmers get the most out of their investment.”
To address this, Barthorpe has outlined five key tips to help farmers optimise their equipment choices. First, he recommends identifying the specific needs of the farm—whether it’s spraying, irrigation, mowing, or soil preparation. By clearly defining these tasks, farmers can avoid investing in machines that are either oversized or underpowered.
Secondly, he encourages farmers to set a realistic budget and do their homework. While premium machinery might require a higher upfront cost, it often offers better long-term value through access to genuine spare parts, reliable support, and extended service life. This is particularly important in rural areas where maintenance access is limited.
Third, the use of multi-purpose tools can be a game changer for small farms. Compact self-drive tillers and leaf blowers, for instance, can be used for a variety of tasks, reducing the need to purchase multiple machines. This not only saves money but also space and maintenance costs.
Barthorpe also stresses the importance of consulting with experts at authorised dealerships. These professionals can offer guidance, after-sales support, and information on warranties—such as Husqvarna’s one-year limited warranty, which covers repairs or replacements for factory defects through authorised workshops.
Lastly, the campaign highlights the critical role of ongoing maintenance. Farmers are encouraged to ask about servicing, spare parts availability, and training when making purchases. Barthorpe notes that proper care helps extend the life of machines, improves efficiency, and prevents costly breakdowns during peak farming periods.
Husqvarna’s initiative comes at a time when much of Africa’s small-scale agriculture still depends on manual labour. By introducing durable, reliable, and user-friendly equipment, the company aims to empower farmers to scale their operations and improve overall farm performance.
To explore the full range of tools designed for small farms, visit www.husqvarna.co.zm.
