Kenyan tycoon Adil Popat’s Simba Corp forges new partnership to propel agricultural growth
Simba Corporation (Simba Corp), a leading motor vehicle distributor and integrated business group led by Kenyan tycoon Adil Popat, has entered into a tractor partnership with Mahindra, in a strategic move to bolster agricultural mechanization in Kenya.
The collaboration between Simba Corp and Mahindra Tractors, one of the world’s largest tractor makers, is set to capitalize on the increasing demand for mechanization in major food production regions, particularly in the Rift Valley.
The strategic partnership aims to fortify Simba Corp and Mahindra Tractors’ market presence in Kenya, where competing brands such as New Holland, John Deere, and Massey Ferguson currently dominate.
Simba Corp and Mahindra unveil cutting-edge tractor models across six branches
As part of the partnership, Mahindra tractors will be available in three variants, offering 25 Horsepower (HP), 75 HP, and 92 HP, named Mahindra 2025, Mahindra 6075, and Mahindra 9200, respectively.
The tractors will be accessible through six branches across Kenya, located in Nairobi, Kisumu, Narok, Kisii, Mombasa, and Nyeri, as well as three tractor dealers situated in Nakuru, Kericho, and Nairobi. All Mahindra Tractors sold in Kenya will come with a warranty of three years or 3,000 hours from the time of purchase.
The official launch of the partnership was presided over by State Department of Crop Development and Agricultural Research Principal Secretary Paul Rono. Simba Corp CEO Dinesh Kotecha reiterated the group’s commitment to empowering farmers and urged the government to zero-rate the 16-percent VAT on farm implements.
Kotecha stated, “Zero-rating VAT on farm implements, same as tractors which don’t attract duty or VAT, will encourage mechanization by reducing the cost of acquisition of implements one would need for a complete end-to-end solution in land preparation and management.”
Simba Corp’s rich heritage and diversified portfolio
Founded in 1948 by Abdul Karim Popat, Simba Corp has evolved from a modest used-car sales enterprise into one of Kenya’s foremost diversified business groups. Under the leadership of Popat, it operates as a conglomerate in various sectors, including motor sales and service, assembly, hospitality, finance, and real estate.
Notable subsidiaries of Simba Corp include the 20th Century Plaza, Xylon Motors (Mahindra), Bavaria Auto (BMW), Simba Transport Solutions, Africa Fleet Management Solutions, and Avis car rental. Popat’s commitment to excellence and relentless pursuit of perfection have solidified his position as one of Kenya’s most affluent business figures.
The Simba Corp and Mahindra partnership signals a significant step toward advancing agricultural mechanization in Kenya, with potential benefits for both small-scale and large-scale farmers. The introduction of Mahindra tractors, coupled with Simba Corp’s commitment to supporting government initiatives, is poised to contribute to a more efficient and productive agricultural sector in the country.