The Impact of mechanization in smallholder irrigation schemes: a case study of the more food for Africa programme in Mashonaland East Zimbabwe
- Author
- Plate, Hassan L
- Title
- The Impact of mechanization in smallholder irrigation schemes: a case study of the more food for Africa programme in Mashonaland East Zimbabwe
- Abstract
- This thesis investigates the impact of mechanization on smallholder farmers participating in the More Food programme, a government initiative aimed at improving agricultural productivity in rural areas. The study assesses the effects of mechanization on crops yields, crop quality, farming efficiency, machinery ownership and management and livelihoods of smallholder farmers in the programme. Data was collected through surveys, interviews, field observations in Marondera District Mashonaland East where the programme was implemented. The results show that mechanization increased crop yields, crop quality and farming efficiency leading to improved livelihoods and food security among smallholders. However, the study reviews challenges such as poor management of machinery and implements, poor repair and repair and maintenance strategies, high maintenance cost, limited access to spare parts and inadequate training which hinder the adoption and effective use of mechanized technologies. The study recommends strategies to address these challenges and improve the sustainability of mechanization initiatives among smallholder farmers. The findings contribute to the benefits of mechanisation and to the development of effective agricultural policies and programmes that promote sustainable agricultural development and food security.
- Date
- June 2024
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Mechanization impact
- Smallholder farmers
- Agricultural productivity
- Crop yields
- Supervisor
- Not Identified
- Item sets
- Department of Agricultural Engineering
- Media
-
Plate, Hassan L..pdf