Machinery & Equipment

Truck Mounted Forklifts transform delivery efficiency in modern agriculture logistics. (Image credit: Shamrock Forklifts)

Truck mounted forklifts are becoming a key part of modern logistics, helping businesses handle deliveries with greater speed and independence.

By removing the need for fixed loading infrastructure, these machines allow operators to load and unload goods directly from vehicles, reducing delays and improving overall efficiency.

Shamrock Handling Concepts supplies a full range of Moffett forklifts, including the Moffett M8 NX2. This model is designed to support demanding delivery environments while maintaining a balance between performance, safety and ease of use.

Built with compact dimensions, the M8 NX2 fits easily onto trucks while still offering the strength needed to handle medium to heavy loads. This makes it ideal for deliveries in locations where traditional loading equipment is not available.

One of its standout features is the side mount system, which allows operators to control the machine while standing on the ground. This reduces the need to climb in and out of the cab repeatedly, helping improve safety and speed during busy delivery schedules.

The forklift also supports single side offloading, allowing goods to be handled from one side of the vehicle. With the addition of a lift assist function, operators can reach across the truck bed without needing to reposition, making the process smoother and more efficient in tight spaces.

Visibility has also been improved through a redesigned fork carriage, giving operators a clearer view of the load. A digital display provides real time information such as engine speed, fuel level and machine angle, helping maintain safe operation at all times.

Manoeuvrability is another strength of the M8 NX2. Its advanced steering system allows it to move easily in confined areas, while optional multi direction steering helps navigate narrow access routes often found in urban settings.

The machine also includes smart connectivity features that allow fleet managers to track performance, usage and maintenance needs. Combined with strong build quality and built in safety systems, this ensures reliable day to day operation.

With a lifting capacity of up to 3500 kg and a range of attachments available, the M8 NX2 offers a flexible solution for industries such as construction, agriculture and general logistics.

Nigeria partners with Nestlé to build skills and transform dairy production (Image credit: AgroNigeria)

The Federal Government of Nigeria has taken a fresh step towards improving its dairy sector through a new agreement with Nestlé Nigeria Plc.

This partnership will lead to the creation of a Dairy Technical Skills Development Centre in the Federal Capital Territory, aimed at strengthening local production and improving the livestock value chain.

Speaking in Abuja, the Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Mukhtar Maiha, described the agreement as more than a formal step. He explained that it is a practical move to tackle one of the sector’s biggest challenges, which is the lack of technical knowledge and hands on farming skills.

Despite Nigeria’s large cattle population, dairy output remains low. The Minister pointed out the gap clearly, stating, “The reality is that our traditional pastoral systems currently yield an average of merely one to two litres of milk per cow daily.” He explained that this situation is caused by several long standing issues.

“This low productivity is directly linked to a systematic deficit in modern husbandry practices, inadequate feed formulation and lack of clean portable water, as well as impact of climate change and a lack of proficiency in essential areas such as artificial insemination, herd health management and milk hygiene leading to huge post-harvest losses,” he added.

The new centre is expected to serve as a place where farmers can gain real experience and learn modern techniques. Maiha stressed the importance of practical learning, saying, “We are actively aware that theoretical knowledge, while important, cannot substitute for hands-on experience in farm management.”

He also highlighted the need to meet global standards. “Therefore I have directed that the curriculum for this centre must be rigorously benchmarked against the best standards in the global dairy industry.”

The training will focus mainly on practical work, covering areas such as breeding, animal care, feeding, hygiene, and farm management.

Nestlé Nigeria also shared its commitment to the project, noting its ongoing investment in dairy communities. “Through the project, Nestlé Nigeria has invested over 1.8 billion Naira to support dairy communities in and around Pai-Konkore and the Luger grazing reserves.”

This initiative is expected to improve productivity, increase farmers’ incomes, and reduce Nigeria’s reliance on dairy imports.

Trackman’s proven track technology for commercial applications.

Advanced rubber tracks manufacturer, Trackman, has expanded its offerings with the launch of Trackman HP Plus tracks for the Fendt 900 and 1100 Vario MT (Multi-Track) series tractors 

Trackman’s proven track technology for commercial applications gets a new addition to its diverse range of high-performance rubber tracks that promise enhanced ride quality, durability and field performance.

“The HP Plus track was developed in direct response to what today’s operators are asking for, improved ride quality without sacrificing durability or performance,” said Dan Fullenkamp, director of business strategy. “With this design, we’ve optimised tread pitch, lug size and the internal construction to reduce machine stress and deliver a smoother, more consistent ride across a wide range of field conditions. It’s a meaningful step forward for both operator comfort and long-term track performance.”

The Fendt 900 Vario MT Series tracks come in 25- inch and 30-inch widths. These are equipped with 7.6-inch pitch for improved ride quality, 2.95-inch tread bars for optimal wear and traction, 1.5-inch thick carcass with four layers of proprietary MAXXTUFF reinforcement, and enhanced guide lug design to reduce stress on drive wheels and idler wheels. 

These fully molded tracks are engineered for long service life and consistent performance across varying field conditions.

The tracks for Fendt 1100 Vario MT Series, on the other hand, are available in 30-inch and 36-inch widths. These feature 7.9-inch pitch for improved ride quality in heavy tillage applications, 2.95-inch tread lugs for durability and traction, and advanced MAXXTUFFTM construction for strength and longevity. 

Africa gets its first IoT-native precision agriculture model. (Image source: MyBitSecure)

Designed for emerging farmers, cooperatives and smart agricultural programmes across sub-Saharan Africa, the MBS SmartFarm Platform has been deployed following a three-month applied research pilot at the Sustainability Institute in Lynedoch, Stellenbosch

The platform reported marked improvements in soil health and water management, after close monitoring of soil moisture, pH, electrical conductivity, temperature, water consumption, and real-time climatic conditions across the SI’s community garden.

With this platform, Africa gets its first IoT-native precision agriculture model to embed enterprise-grade cybersecurity at its architectural foundation. Community food production initiatives, and institutions operating within sustainability-driven and development-finance supported programmes across Sub-Saharan Africa can leverage the application.

“The integration of smart agriculture technologies within our garden is not only about improving yields and resource management, but also about deepening experiential learning; transforming the garden into a living laboratory for innovation,” said Mulweli Nethengwe, research and strategy analyst, Sustainability Institute. 

“Soil health is the foundation of food security and for too long, the intelligence needed to protect it has remained out of reach for the farms and communities that need it most. The MBS SmartFarm Platform changes that. What we are bringing is a contribution to the long-term resilience of food systems across this continent, backed by evidence, built for African conditions, and designed to serve the people who feed us.” said Tandi Rouse, co-founder and director, MyBitSecure Technologies (Pty) Ltd.