Mechanisation of agricultural work in sub-Saharan Africa: study report

This study report contains past and on-going experiences, together with a brief description of the most common techniques. The study explores the adoption and use of innovative manual tools, cultivation using draft animals and engine driven equipment, in the fields and for transport purposes. The main aims of the study were to identify the most appropriate means of raising the awareness of the various operators (small farmers, policy makers, and research managers) regarding the contribution of mechanisation to agricultural development, and to suggest activities at a national or regional level to promote the mechanisation of small- and medium-sized farms. The study makes a number of recommendations with a view to improving the integration of mechanisation in rural development strategies. These recommendations are addressed to governments, private operators, donors and NGOs. The report is divided into two major sections. The first is devoted to analysis of lessons learnt from the past and on-going experiences and an analysis of the current status of technology including typology of critical factors in the development of mechanisation. The second section consists of recommendations and subdivided into several parts: conceptual framework, priority for governments, role of private operators and NGOs, and proposals for regional cooperation. CTA publication 1997, 70 pp., ISBN 92 9081 1749, 5 credit points.Mechanisation of agricultural work in sub-Saharan Africa: study report CTA publication 1997, 70 pp., ISBN 92 9081 1749, 5 credit points