Gender and mechanization: Exploring the sustainability of mechanized forage chopping in Tanzania

dc.creatorFischer, Gundula
dc.creatorWittich, Simon
dc.creatorMalima, Gabriel C.
dc.creatorSikumba, Gregory
dc.creatorLukuyu, Ben
dc.creatorNgunga, David
dc.creatorRugalabam, Jacqueline
dc.date2021-06-11T07:23:15Z
dc.date2021-06-11T07:23:15Z
dc.date2018-11
dc.date.accessioned2022-10-25T09:13:53Z
dc.date.available2022-10-25T09:13:53Z
dc.descriptionThis research article published by Elsevier Ltd., 2018
dc.descriptionMechanization is currently experiencing a revival in agricultural research and development, with a new emphasis on equity and sustainability. This study evaluates the introduction of forage chopper machines in seven villages in northern Tanzania from a farmer's perspective. Data collected through focus group discussions and a survey are used for a gender analysis of this technology within a broader sustainable intensification indicator framework. The results not only draw attention to unabated challenges to smallholder mechanization (such as high operational costs or weak supporting infrastructures), but also show how the technology's sustainability is contingent upon equity dynamics on the household and community levels. The evaluation framework proved suitable for a holistic assessment. A broader approach to gender issues would strengthen its interdisciplinary claim. Suggestions for promoting the chopper's sustainability include gender-sensitive training and the establishment of group models for machine operation based on agreed and fair regulations.
dc.formatapplication/pdf
dc.identifierhttps://doi.org/10.1016/j.jrurstud.2018.09.012
dc.identifierhttps://dspace.nm-aist.ac.tz/handle/20.500.12479/1201
dc.identifier.urihttp://hdl.handle.net/123456789/94388
dc.languageen
dc.publisherElsevier Ltd.
dc.subjectAgricultural mechanization
dc.subjectGender
dc.subjectLivestock
dc.titleGender and mechanization: Exploring the sustainability of mechanized forage chopping in Tanzania
dc.typeArticle

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