Study of the agricultural machinery industry diagnostic and action plan proposal: mission report

Abstract

This report presents the findings of a diagnostic study on the agricultural machinery and hand tool industry within the ECOWAS Community, along with proposals for an action plan aimed at fostering its development. The industry is characterized by two distinct production systems: (1) artisanal fabrication carried out by village blacksmiths and small-scale rural and urban workshops, and (2) industrial manufacturing undertaken by a limited number of factories and larger workshops. The industrial sector primarily focuses on the production of hand tools, draft animal equipment, and small-scale agricultural processing machinery. The report concludes with actionable recommendations to enhance the growth and sustainability of the agricultural machinery and hand tool industry in the region.