Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia

Chuol Bor; Kher Deng

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia

Chuol Bor^*

, Kher Deng

Published in International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications (Volume 12, Issue 5)

Received: 2 November 2024 Accepted: 15 November 2024 Published: 29 November 2024

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Abstract

Tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region is essential for increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The sampling methods employed included purposive sampling to select kebelles and a lottery method for sample respondents. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations, while secondary data were obtained from government statistics, academic publications, non-governmental organization reports, market information, and historical records. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages. Regarding opportunities for tractor adoption, the study found that 9% of smallholder farmers used tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to enhance market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase productivity. Conversely, the study identified major constraints, with 27% citing high initial investment, 40% noting lack of credit access, 18% reporting limited technical expertise, and 15% indicating inadequate infrastructure as barriers to tractor adoption. To maximize adoption opportunities, government agencies and private companies should offer financial incentives and loans to support farmers’ tractor investments. Additionally, to address these adoption challenges, government, local, and non-governmental organizations should provide subsidies, low-interest loans, and technical training programs to enable smallholder farmers to purchase or rent tractors, thus enhancing access to mechanized services and improving agricultural productivity and efficiency.

Published in	International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications (Volume 12, Issue 5)
DOI	10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12
Page(s)	129-135
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2024. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Challenges, Opportunities, Tractor, Smallholder Farmers, Gambella Region

1. Introduction

The Gambella region in Ethiopia, rich in diverse agroecological zones and natural resources, offers significant opportunities for smallholder farmers to engage in agricultural development, including mechanized farming, as reported by previous studies

[1]

. Research has shown that the availability of customized tractor rental services has the potential to empower these smallholder farmers by enhancing their access to mechanization technologies, which has been demonstrated in recent studies

[2, 3]

. Innovations such as ICT applications resembling "Uber for tractors" have been introduced to overcome barriers in rural areas, where traditional markets for tractor services may not be as accessible as in urban areas. These innovations aim to enhance smallholders' access to tractor services, promoting agricultural productivity in regions like Gambella, as noted by several reports

[4]

. The role of medium- and large-scale farmers in renting out tractors to smaller farms is also pivotal for promoting mechanization and increasing service accessibility, as highlighted in studies on the topic

[5]

Despite Gambella's favorable agricultural environment, smallholder farmers face several challenges, including limited market access, inadequate infrastructure, unpredictable weather, and high maintenance costs for tractors, all of which present barriers to adoption

[6]

. Additionally, access to rental stations remains insufficient, as shown in recent studies

[7]

, and there is often a lack of information and training on the advantages and usage of tractors, limiting their adoption

[8]

. Competing uses of resources, such as crop residues for livestock feed, further complicate farmers' ability to fully utilize tractor-based technologies, as indicated by prior research

[9]

Adopting tractors among smallholder farmers in Gambella is vital for enhancing productivity, ensuring food security, and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Mechanization through tractors can improve farming efficiency and yield, leading to increased income and improved living standards, as outlined in research studies

[10]

. Moreover, the use of tractors reduces the labor-intensity of farming, enabling crop diversification and adaptation to changing environmental conditions, benefits supported by recent findings

[11-13]

Previous research has emphasized the benefits of tractors in improving productivity and reducing labor costs. For example, studies conducted in Nigeria

[14]

, by Takele and Selassie in northwestern Ethiopia

[15]

, and in India

[16]

underscore the importance of tractors in transforming smallholder farming practices. However, specific challenges and opportunities surrounding tractor adoption in Gambella remain understudied, limiting effective support for tractor-based agricultural practices in the region. This study addresses this research gap by analyzing the unique challenges and opportunities associated with tractor adoption for smallholder farmers in Gambella The study on tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in Ethiopia's Gambella region revealed both challenges and opportunities. Key opportunities include improved soil health, reduced labor costs, enhanced market access, reduced post-harvest losses, and increased crop productivity for farmers adopting tractors. However, major challenges limiting adoption include high initial investment costs, limited access to credit, insufficient technical expertise, and inadequate infrastructure. To support adoption, the study recommends that government agencies and private companies offer financial incentives, affordable credit, and subsidies. Additionally, targeted training programs and partnerships with local organizations are essential to improve farmers' technical skills and access to mechanization services, ultimately enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability in the region.

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Description of the Study Area

The Gambella region in western Ethiopia is home to a rich cultural heritage and diverse ethnic groups. With a population of over 400,000, the region includes communities such as the Nuer, Anuak, Opo, Komo, and Majang ethnic groups. Each group has distinct customs and lifestyles, contributing to Gambella's vibrant cultural mosaic

[17]

. Known for its lush landscapes, fertile soils, and abundant wildlife, Gambella is an important ecological hotspot in Ethiopia. The region’s natural beauty and biodiversity attract tourists, researchers, and conservationists from around the world. Gambella is also home to several national parks and game reserves, such as Gambella National Park and the Baro River Wildlife Conservancy, which serve as refuges for various endangered species

[18]

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Figure 1. Map of the study area.

2.2. Research Design

The research focused on the challenges and opportunities of tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region of Ethiopia, employing a descriptive research design. This approach facilitated the collection of qualitative data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the situation.

2.3. Sampling Technique and Size Determination

A two-stage sampling method was employed to identify the target population within the study area. First, among the five kebelles (the smallest administrative units in Ethiopia) in the region, kebelles 01, 03, and 04 were selected through purposive sampling due to the limited availability of tractors in these areas. In the second stage, participants were chosen using a simple random sampling technique known as the lottery method, ensuring that every individual in the selected kebelles had an equal chance of participation. The sample size for this study was determined using a formula recommended in previous research

[19]

, based on a population of 190, a margin of error of 5%, and a confidence level of 95%.

n = \frac{N}{1 + N (e) 2}

(1)

n = \frac{N}{1 + N (e) 2} = \frac{190}{1 + 190 (0.05)}

=129

Where n is the sample size, N is the total population and e is the sampling error.

2.4. Data Sources

This study utilizes both primary and secondary data sources. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations with sample participants to identify the challenges and opportunities of tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region. Surveys and questionnaires gathered quantitative data, while in-depth interviews and focus groups provided valuable qualitative insights. Field observations complemented these methods by offering real-time observations of participants using tractors in their agricultural activities. Furthermore, secondary data were collected from government statistics, academic publications, and reports from non-governmental organizations, market data, and historical records. These secondary sources were used to supplement and validate the primary data collected. By employing a combination of various data collection methods, the study achieved a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by smallholder farmers in adopting tractors in the Gambella region.

2.5. Methods of Data Analysis

Descriptive statistics, specifically frequencies and percentages, were used for data analysis to provide a comprehensive overview of the challenges and opportunities for tractor adoption among smallholder farmers in the Gambella region of Ethiopia.

3. Results

3.1. Demographic Information

The demographic information of the target group was analyzed to identify the challenges and opportunities for tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the study area. The target group information included sex, age, education level, household size, and household income.

The gender distribution of the respondents in the sample indicated that 64% were male and 36% were female. This gender distribution suggests a gender gap in the adoption of tractors in the Gambella region, with more men than women adopting this technology.

The age distribution of the respondents was 22% aged between 20-30 years, 50% aged between 36-40 years, and 28% above 40 years. This means that the majority of smallholder farmers in the region who use tractors are middle-aged between 36 and 40 years old.

The education level of the respondents revealed that 54% were educated, whereas the remaining 46% had no education. The study found that most smallholder farmers in the study area have at least some level of education, which may be a contributing factor in their willingness to adopt tractor technology.

An examination of the household size of smallholder farmers revealed that 12% had 1-5 members, 57% had 6-10 members, and 31% had more than 10 members. The results indicated that smallholder farmers with larger households were more likely to adopt tractor technology, possibly because of the increased labor effort that comes with larger families.

According to household income, 21% of the respondents had an income of 1,000-4,000 Ethiopian Birr, 34% had an income of 4,100-8,000 ETB, and 45% had an income of 8,001 ETB or more. The study found that most smallholder farmers with higher household incomes were more likely to adopt tractor technology as they may have more resources to invest in new technology.

Table 1. Demographic information of smallholder farmers.

Variable	Data set	Frequency	Percentage
Gender	Male	82	64
	Female	47	36
Age	20-35	28	22
	36-40	65	50
	>40	36	28
Educational level	Educated	70	54
	Uneducated	59	46
Household size	1-5	16	12
	6-10	73	57
	>10	40	31
Household income	1000-4000	27	21
	4100-8000	44	34
	>8000	58	45
Total		129	100

^* Source: Own Field Data (2024).

3.2. Opportunities of Tractor Adoption

This study found five potential opportunities for smallholder farmers in the Gambella region to adopt tractors. The results showed that 9% of smallholder farmers adopted tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to improve market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase crop productivity.

Table 2. Opportunities of tractor adoption by smallholder farmers.

Opportunities	Frequency	Percentage
Improve soil health	12	9
Reduce labour cost	26	20
Improve market access	21	16
Reduce post-harvest loss	9	7
Increase crop productivity	61	48
Total	129	100

^* Source: Own Field Data (2024).

3.3. Challenges of Tractor Adoption

The study highlighted numerous challenges faced by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region in the adoption of tractors. These challenges included high investment costs, lack of access to credit, limited technical expertise, limited infrastructure, and lack of mechanized services. The study found that 27% had high initial investments, a lack of credit access at 40%, limited technical expertise at 18%, and a lack of infrastructure at 15% as challenges that prevented them from adopting tractors.

Table 3. Challenges faced by smallholder farmers.

Challenges	Frequency	Percentage
High initial investment	35	27
Lack of credit access	52	40
Limited technical advertise	23	18
Lack of infrastructure	19	15
Total	129	100

^* Source: Own Field Data (2024).

4. Discussion

The study reveals that enhancing productivity is the most prominent driver for tractor adoption among smallholder farmers, with nearly half of the respondents identifying it as the primary benefit. This aligns with the findings of previous studies, which observed that mechanization generally improves operational efficiency, reduces reliance on manual labor, and can lead to substantial yield increases

[20, 21]

. The appeal of mechanization lies in its potential to reduce the time and labor required for field preparation, planting, and post-harvest processing, which is crucial for smallholder farmers who rely heavily on family labor. In addition, the adoption of small-scale agricultural machinery, such as mini tractors, appears to be particularly beneficial in enhancing soil health and lowering labor costs, as reported by another study

[22]

. These machines offer affordability and flexibility, making them viable options for smallholders who cannot afford larger equipment but still seek to improve productivity and efficiency.

Mechanized tools also contribute to better soil health through controlled tillage and optimized nutrient management, supported by studies indicating that two-wheeled tractors could achieve yields comparable to or even surpassing conventional methods while minimizing soil disruption

[23]

. Smallholder farmers in the Gambella region echoed this finding, indicating that tractors could improve their efficiency and crop yield while reducing their dependency on labor-intensive practices.

However, the literature also highlights potential negative impacts on soil health if mechanization is not carefully managed. Researchers have reported that increased tractor use could lead to excessive tillage, accelerating the oxidation of soil organic matter, especially in warmer climates like Ethiopia’s, where organic decomposition is already rapid

[24]

. Another study emphasized the need for a balanced approach to mechanization, as intensive tillage practices may lead to soil compaction and reduced fertility, ultimately affecting crop productivity

[25]

. As a result, a balanced mechanization strategy is critical to maintaining soil health, which involves combining mechanized equipment with sustainable practices such as minimal tillage or conservation agriculture.

Moreover, mechanization’s potential to improve market access was identified. This finding is supported by research suggesting that tractors can enhance market reach by facilitating faster, more efficient transport of produce

[26]

. However, another study indicated that although tractors increase market participation, many smallholder farmers still sell at farm-gate prices, reflecting a broader issue of poor market integration

[27]

. In the context of Gambella, while tractors can improve the logistics of reaching markets, broader systemic improvements—such as improved infrastructure and market networks—are essential for farmers to fully benefit from these opportunities.

The study’s findings indicate that high initial investment costs and limited access to credit are the primary barriers to tractor adoption. These constraints align with research emphasizing that the financial burden associated with new technologies deters many smallholder farmers from adoption, particularly in low-income settings

[28]

. Similarly, another study highlighted that limited access to credit is a significant obstacle for smallholder farmers, as the lack of financing options hinders their capacity to invest in mechanized equipment

[29]

. This is especially relevant in Gambella, where financial institutions and microcredit options remain scarce, limiting farmers’ ability to afford the initial costs of tractor ownership.

Another key challenge identified in the study was the limited technical expertise among smallholder farmers, which affects their ability to operate and maintain tractors effectively. Previous research highlighted that successful adoption of mechanization depends on proper training and technical support, as farmers without such knowledge may struggle to achieve the anticipated productivity gains

[30]

. The Gambella study’s findings resonate with this, revealing that without sufficient training, many smallholder farmers face difficulty understanding the operations and maintenance of tractors, which discourages adoption. Given these limitations, extension services and training programs tailored to smallholder farmers’ needs could play a pivotal role in overcoming these barriers and improving adoption rates.

Infrastructure constraints, such as poor road networks, further exacerbate the challenges faced by farmers in adopting tractors. Findings from previous studies support this observation, emphasizing that inadequate infrastructure often hinders the full utilization of mechanization, as tractors are less efficient and practical in areas lacking suitable transport networks

[31]

. This is particularly relevant for Gambella, where limited rural infrastructure means that tractors cannot be effectively utilized across all farming areas. However, research from another region argued that infrastructure constraints do not universally prevent adoption, as in Nepal’s Terai region, where even in challenging infrastructure conditions; tractor adoption continues to meet local demand

[32]

. This suggests that targeted improvements in infrastructure, such as localized road networks or access points, could facilitate tractor use in Gambella without requiring extensive rural road development.

Future research could explore tailored financing models that address the specific financial needs of smallholder farmers in the Gambella region. Innovative microcredit programs or government subsidies designed specifically for agricultural mechanization could help bridge the credit gap and alleviate the high upfront costs associated with tractor ownership. Additionally, studies on sustainable mechanization practices that balance productivity gains with soil health could be valuable, especially in understanding how conservation agriculture practices could be integrated with tractor use to minimize soil degradation.

Moreover, further research is needed to examine how extension services and targeted training programs can best address the knowledge gap among smallholder farmers. Assessing the effectiveness of these programs in improving tractor handling, maintenance, and soil management practices would provide insights into increasing adoption rates. Finally, a comprehensive evaluation of the impacts of rural infrastructure on tractor utilization could help policymakers prioritize infrastructure improvements that would yield the greatest benefit for mechanization in areas like Gambella.

5. Conclusions

The study concluded that smallholder farmers using tractors can enhance soil health, reduce labor costs, improve market access, decrease post-harvest losses, and increase crop productivity. However, the study also identified significant challenges hindering tractor adoption among smallholder farmers in the study area, including high investment costs, limited access to credit, a lack of technical expertise, and infrastructure constraints. To capitalize the opportunities, government agencies and private companies should provide financial incentives and credit options to support farmers in tractor investments. Additionally, research and development efforts should focus on designing and manufacturing affordable and adaptable tractor models tailored to the needs of smallholder farmers. To address adoption challenges, governments should consider offering subsidies or low-interest loans to enable farmers to purchase or rent tractors. Expanding training programs and workshops to improve farmers' technical skills in tractor use is also essential. Collaboration with local and non-governmental organizations can further enhance smallholder farmers' access to mechanization services, ultimately boosting agricultural productivity and efficiency.

Abbreviations

CSA	Central Statistical Agency
ETB	Ethiopian Birr
ICT	Information Communication Technology

Acknowledgments

The authors appreciate the efforts of the farmers for their valuable contribution to this study. Without participation, this study would not have been possible.

Author Contributions

Chuol Bor Chuol: Conceptualization, Resources, Methodology, Writing – original draft, review, editing & software.

Kher Deng Tholbok: Data curation, Investigation & Supervision.

Funding

This work is not supported by any external funding.

Data Availability Statement

The data is available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Conflicts of Interest

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

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Bor, C., Deng, K. (2024). Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications, 12(5), 129-135. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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Bor, C.; Deng, K. Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. Int. J. Mech. Eng. Appl. 2024, 12(5), 129-135. doi: 10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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Bor C, Deng K. Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. Int J Mech Eng Appl. 2024;12(5):129-135. doi: 10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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@article{10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12,
  author = {Chuol Bor and Kher Deng},
  title = {Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia
},
  journal = {International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications},
  volume = {12},
  number = {5},
  pages = {129-135},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  abstract = {Tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region is essential for increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The sampling methods employed included purposive sampling to select kebelles and a lottery method for sample respondents. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations, while secondary data were obtained from government statistics, academic publications, non-governmental organization reports, market information, and historical records. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages. Regarding opportunities for tractor adoption, the study found that 9% of smallholder farmers used tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to enhance market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase productivity. Conversely, the study identified major constraints, with 27% citing high initial investment, 40% noting lack of credit access, 18% reporting limited technical expertise, and 15% indicating inadequate infrastructure as barriers to tractor adoption. To maximize adoption opportunities, government agencies and private companies should offer financial incentives and loans to support farmers’ tractor investments. Additionally, to address these adoption challenges, government, local, and non-governmental organizations should provide subsidies, low-interest loans, and technical training programs to enable smallholder farmers to purchase or rent tractors, thus enhancing access to mechanized services and improving agricultural productivity and efficiency.
},
 year = {2024}
}

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SN  - 2330-0248
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12
AB  - Tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region is essential for increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The sampling methods employed included purposive sampling to select kebelles and a lottery method for sample respondents. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations, while secondary data were obtained from government statistics, academic publications, non-governmental organization reports, market information, and historical records. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages. Regarding opportunities for tractor adoption, the study found that 9% of smallholder farmers used tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to enhance market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase productivity. Conversely, the study identified major constraints, with 27% citing high initial investment, 40% noting lack of credit access, 18% reporting limited technical expertise, and 15% indicating inadequate infrastructure as barriers to tractor adoption. To maximize adoption opportunities, government agencies and private companies should offer financial incentives and loans to support farmers’ tractor investments. Additionally, to address these adoption challenges, government, local, and non-governmental organizations should provide subsidies, low-interest loans, and technical training programs to enable smallholder farmers to purchase or rent tractors, thus enhancing access to mechanized services and improving agricultural productivity and efficiency.

VL  - 12
IS  - 5
ER  -

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Author Information

Chuol Bor

Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, Gambella University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Biography: Chuol Bor is a lecturer in the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension at Gambella University. He completed his MSc in Rural Livelihood and Food Security at the University of Gondar in 2021. He currently serves as the Freshman Coordination Coordinator at Gambella University. In addition, he serves on editorial boards and as a reviewer, with numerous publications.

Research Fields: Food security, rural livelihood, rural development, agricultural extension.

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0000-0003-1645-0551
Kher Deng

Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, Gambella University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Biography: Kher Deng is a lecturer in the Department of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension at Gambella University. He completed his MSc in Rural Development at Jimma University in 2021. He has participated in multiple international research collaboration projects and has received numerous certifications.

Research Fields: Rural livelihoods, rural development, agricultural innovation, climate change.

Contact Email

http://orcid.org/0009-0002-9431-1960

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Figure 1

Figure 1. Map of the study area.

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APA Style

Bor, C., Deng, K. (2024). Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications, 12(5), 129-135. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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ACS Style

Bor, C.; Deng, K. Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. Int. J. Mech. Eng. Appl. 2024, 12(5), 129-135. doi: 10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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AMA Style

Bor C, Deng K. Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia. Int J Mech Eng Appl. 2024;12(5):129-135. doi: 10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12

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@article{10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12,
  author = {Chuol Bor and Kher Deng},
  title = {Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia
},
  journal = {International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications},
  volume = {12},
  number = {5},
  pages = {129-135},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ijmea.20241205.12},
  abstract = {Tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region is essential for increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The sampling methods employed included purposive sampling to select kebelles and a lottery method for sample respondents. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations, while secondary data were obtained from government statistics, academic publications, non-governmental organization reports, market information, and historical records. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages. Regarding opportunities for tractor adoption, the study found that 9% of smallholder farmers used tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to enhance market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase productivity. Conversely, the study identified major constraints, with 27% citing high initial investment, 40% noting lack of credit access, 18% reporting limited technical expertise, and 15% indicating inadequate infrastructure as barriers to tractor adoption. To maximize adoption opportunities, government agencies and private companies should offer financial incentives and loans to support farmers’ tractor investments. Additionally, to address these adoption challenges, government, local, and non-governmental organizations should provide subsidies, low-interest loans, and technical training programs to enable smallholder farmers to purchase or rent tractors, thus enhancing access to mechanized services and improving agricultural productivity and efficiency.
},
 year = {2024}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - Challenges and Opportunities of Tractor Adoption by Smallholder Farmers in Gambella Region, Ethiopia

AU  - Chuol Bor
AU  - Kher Deng
Y1  - 2024/11/29
PY  - 2024
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12
DO  - 10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12
T2  - International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications
JF  - International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications
JO  - International Journal of Mechanical Engineering and Applications
SP  - 129
EP  - 135
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-0248
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ijmea.20241205.12
AB  - Tractor adoption by smallholder farmers in the Gambella region is essential for increasing agricultural productivity, improving food security, and promoting sustainable livelihoods. The sampling methods employed included purposive sampling to select kebelles and a lottery method for sample respondents. Primary data were collected through surveys, questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus groups, and field observations, while secondary data were obtained from government statistics, academic publications, non-governmental organization reports, market information, and historical records. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics, such as frequencies and percentages. Regarding opportunities for tractor adoption, the study found that 9% of smallholder farmers used tractors to improve soil health, 20% to reduce labor costs, and 16% to enhance market access, 7% to reduce post-harvest losses, and 48% to increase productivity. Conversely, the study identified major constraints, with 27% citing high initial investment, 40% noting lack of credit access, 18% reporting limited technical expertise, and 15% indicating inadequate infrastructure as barriers to tractor adoption. To maximize adoption opportunities, government agencies and private companies should offer financial incentives and loans to support farmers’ tractor investments. Additionally, to address these adoption challenges, government, local, and non-governmental organizations should provide subsidies, low-interest loans, and technical training programs to enable smallholder farmers to purchase or rent tractors, thus enhancing access to mechanized services and improving agricultural productivity and efficiency.

VL  - 12
IS  - 5
ER  -

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