Mechanization

Scaling agricultural mechanization services in smallholder farming systems; Case studies from sub-Saharan Africa, South Asia, and Latin America

There is great untapped potential for farm mechanization to support rural development initiatives in low- and middle-income countries. As technology transfer of large machinery from high-income countries was ineffective during the 1980s and 90s, …

The role of mechanization in transformation of smallholder agriculture in Southern Africa. Experience from Zimbabwe

This chapter explores 'the why', 'the what' and 'the how' of mechanization for smallholder farmers in Southern Africa using Zimbabwe as an example, and based on the experience of the ACIAR-funded project 'Farm Mechanization & Conservation Agriculture …

Is labour a major determinant of yield gaps in sub-Saharan Africa? A study of cereal-based production systems in Southern Ethiopia

We investigated the role of labour in explaining the yield gap of cereals at both crop and farm levels on smallholder farms in Southern Ethiopia. A household survey containing detailed information of labour use at crop and farm level of ca. 100 farms …

Agricultural mechanization and reduced tillage; antagonism or synergy?

This paper reviews agricultural mechanization and reduced tillage use in the context of sustainable intensification in developing country agriculture. The scoping review includes selected and contrasting cases – including Zimbabwe (manual systems), …

A farm-level assessment of labor and mechanization in Eastern and Southern Africa

Once again, agricultural mechanization is top on the policy, research, and development agendas in sub-Saharan Africa. However, whether labor is limiting in this region—and mechanization is in demand—remains debated. The hypothesis of this study is …

Re-examining appropriate mechanization in Eastern and Southern Africa; two-wheel tractors, conservation agriculture, and private sector involvement

The need for sustainable intensification in Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) is widely recognized as a requirement to achieve food security with minimum negative social and environmental consequences. In current Research & Development programs, much …