Scaling small-scale mechanization in the Ethiopian Highlands
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This document summarizes scaling small-scale mechanization in Ethiopia using two wheel tractors (2WT). It discusses how farming is currently done using human and animal power, which is labor intensive. 2WT technologies can help address challenges with precision, irrigation, harvesting and processing. The project trained service providers and officials, conducted demonstrations on farms, and created awareness events. It assessed service provider models, profitability of 2WT services, and conducted on-farm trials. Challenges included lack of commitment from some service providers and uncertainty of funds. Moving forward, the project will focus on assessing niche technologies, continuous training, and engaging the private sector.
Scaling small-scale mechanization in the Ethiopian Highlands
- 1. Scaling small-scale mechanization in the Ethiopian Highlands Walter Mupangwa, Rabe Yahaya, Ashinie Gonfa, Ephrem Tadesse, Abrham Kassa, Simret Yasabu CIMMYT-Ethiopia Office Introduction Farming operations on smallholder farms in Ethiopia are predominantly performed by human muscle power leading to high drudgery. The animal-drawn maresha is a symbol of agriculture in Ethiopia. However, the system is labour intensive especially at land preparation stage when the soil is tilled 3-4 times before planting. Precision in planting and fertilization, irrigation of high value crops, harvesting and post-harvest processing is low on smallholder farms. The two wheel tractor (2 WT) based technologies offer an opportunity to tackle some of these challenges faced on smallholder farms in Ethiopia. Results/Achievements In-class and on-field training of service providers (SPs) and agri officials. Paired plot on-farm demonstrations as learning and data generation centres. Awareness/demand creation events on small mechanization. SP for scaling technologies, income generation and employment. Government and private sector engagement throughout project implementation. Survey – assessing effectiveness of SP models. Figure 1. Various field activities in relation to mechanization in the Ethiopian highlands. Training: Technical and agribusiness training of SPs and equipment operators. Scaling: (a) Awareness creation through field days and on-farm demonstrations, (b) service provision of 2 WT technologies. Research: (a) Assessing the effectiveness of service provision models being used for scaling 2 WT based technologies. (b) Assessing profitability of different 2 WT services Research: On-farm trials/demos for generation of maize and wheat productivity and profitability. Publication: Assessing effectiveness of service provision models. Plans for 2019 Lack of commitment by some service providers Uncertainty of project funds during 2018. Selection of service providers – target business minded people. First assess the niche for different 2 WT technologies before investing in different equipment. Training is a continuous process in the use of mechanization. Private sector partners require big numbers to seriously invest/participate in mechanization activities. The Africa Research In Sustainable Intensification for the Next Generation (Africa RISING) program comprises three research-for- development projects supported by the United States Agency for International Development as part of the U.S. government’s Feed the Future initiative. Through action research and development partnerships, Africa RISING will create opportunities for smallholder farm households to move out of hunger and poverty through sustainably intensified farming systems that improve food, nutrition, and income security, particularly for women and children, and conserve or enhance the natural resource base. The three projects are led by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (in West Africa and East and Southern Africa) and the International Livestock Research Institute (in the Ethiopian Highlands). The International Food Policy Research Institute leads an associated project on monitoring, evaluation and impact assessment. www.africa-rising.net Key challenges and lessons We thank farmers and local partners in Africa RISING sites and CIMMYT for their contributions to this research. We also thank USAID for its financial support through the Feed the Future Initiative. Acknowledgement Type of Technology Cost without mechanization ($ ha-1) Cost with mechanization ($ ha-1) Difference ($ ha-1) % cost reduction as a result of hiring mechanization services by farmers 2 wheel tractor wheat planter 105.20 63.40 41.80 40 Wheat harvester 125.90 59.30 66.70 53 Wheat thresher 201.10 92.10 109.00 54 Trailer for transportation 48.90 40.90 8.00 16 • 1100 hhs had received different 2 WT mechanization services in December 2018. We trained 1 female and 24 male service providers in 2018. Method/Approaches