Handover ceremony for 33 Kubota M6-131 tractors

On July 25, 2024, a significant step forward in the modernization of Moldovan agriculture was marked by the handover ceremony of 33 Kubota M6-131 tractors. These tractors, procured under the "Project for Modernization of Agricultural Machinery and Equipment" (MAME) project, symbolize a commitment to providing local farmers with access to modern equipment that can bolster their productivity and improve farming efficiency.

The event, hosted at the Agency for Development and Modernization of Agriculture (ADMA), also served as the launch platform for a new initiative— the "Fertilizer Support for Farmers" (AFF) project. Funded by the Government of Japan, AFF seeks to further empower farmers with essential resources, primarily focusing on the provision of fertilizers critical to crop success.

Maxim Popov, Director of ADMA, opened the ceremony by reflecting on the strides made under the MAME project, which originates from a loan agreement with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) signed in 2020. With investments totaling 261 million lei, the project has successfully benefited 251 farmers, facilitating the purchase of a diverse types of 455 agricultural machinery units. The newly introduced Kubota tractors were made available through installment sale-purchase contracts, ensuring that advanced technology is accessible to all farmers.

In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Bolea mentioned the vital role of such support in fostering the agricultural sector's growth. "I would like to thank the Government of Japan, represented here by the Ambassador, for its support over the years. This assistance is essential for the development of agriculture in the Republic of Moldova, enabling farmers to adopt modern technologies and enhance productivity. I congratulate the farmers receiving the Kubota tractors and wish them success in utilizing them to improve the efficiency and yield of their farming activities."

Ambassador of Japan to Moldova, H.E. Yoichiro Yamada, praised the resilience of Moldovan farmers amidst regional challenges, including the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and repeated severe drought. He emphasized Japan's dedication to supporting agricultural innovation in Moldova. "Today, we celebrate the delivery of 33 Kubota tractors and officially launch a project to supply 2,000 tons of fertilizer to Moldovan farmers. These initiatives are crucial to supporting farmers by giving them access to modern technologies and vital resources to improve agricultural productivity. Japan has been a steadfast partner to the Republic of Moldova, having previously supplied over 600 tractors through various programs."

Maxim Popov reaffirmed the commitment of the ADMA team to respond to farmers' needs, highlighting the project's success and its impact—particularly among young farmers and women. He conveyed his optimism for the future, stating, "The MAME project has been a remarkable success. It reflects our commitment to continuous and effective support for Moldovan farmers, enabling them to embrace modernization in their agricultural practices."

As Moldova continues to navigate challenges, the handover of the Kubota tractors and the launch of the AFF project are a promising chapter characterized by modernization and enhanced agricultural productivity, underscoring the undeniable importance of international partnerships in developing local agriculture. The event not only signifies a tangible contribution to the farmers but also reinforces Moldova's agricultural resilience and sustainability for years to come.

33 Kubota tractors displayed at ADMA

Representatives of ADMA, Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industry, JICA, JICS Consultant, Embassy of Japan and farmers

First 7 farmers to take into their possession the Kubota M6-131 tractors