Adequate mechanization is the main engine of productivity and competitiveness in agriculture and agro-industries. It allows the transition from subsistence farming to commercial farming and market access. Moreover, where epidemic diseases such as HIV/AIDS reduce labour availability and where the farming work force includes children and the elderly, proper tools and machinery can help maintain agricultural production.

UNIDO assists in the rehabilitation and restructuring of workshops and factory operations which design and manufacture agro-machinery and tools. It helps blacksmiths and other providers of rural services to produce and maintain standardized equipment that meets local needs. It facilitates the transfer of innovative technologies to small businesses in the farming and food sectors and consequently greatly improves their competitiveness and market access. As it performs these functions to ensure food security and income generation, UNIDO also gives special consideration to the social and environmental dimensions of mechanization.