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The study intended to assess the contribution of mechanized agricultural equipments in Corn production in Dodoma, the case of Kongwa District Council. The following specific objectives guided data collection: to examine the status of mechanized agricultural equipments and inputs for corn production, to examine its contribution in corn production and to explore the challenges facing farmer groups in managing and using mechanized agricultural equipments for corn production in the study area.
A sample of 8 out of 24 farmer groups was selected for the study through stratified sampling procedures. Both random and purposive sampling procedures were used to draw a sample of 58 respondents. Questionnaires, interviews, Focus Group Discussion and Observation methods were employed for data collection. SPSS was employed for data analysis in which results were presented, discussed and conclusion drawn.
Generally, it was found that despite the council’s efforts in enhancing agricultural mechanization, food production has not improved. The noted challenges for the failure included draught: lack stakeholders participation, inaccessibility of extensions services, in availability of improved seeds, unavailability of spare parts, lack of training to group members, lack of established reporting system and conflicts among group members.
Hence, it was recommended inter alia: formation of farmer groups by members with the focus on self reliance, involvement of stakeholders, provision seed varieties conducive to the climate, implementation of priorities as identified by professional and establishment of mechanisms for efficient utilization of extension officers. |
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