EMPIRICAL-EVIDENCE OF MECHANIZATION EFFECTS ON SMALLHOLDER CROP PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN BOTSWANA

Draught animal power (DAP) is well established as the traditional farming technology of smallholder farmers in Botswana. However, in recent years, the use of tractor farm technology is increasingly becoming important among smallholder farmers in spite of the on-going debate on the desirability of mechanizing smallholder crop production systems. Using 1991 and 1992 farm management survey data on 127 randomly selected small-holder farmers from seven villages, this paper provides a comparative economic analysis for DAP and tractor fanning systems. Specifically, attention is devoted to the impact and implications of 'tractorization' on total crop output, crop income, cropping emphasis and resources utilization. The survey evidence refutes any economic justification for the current use of tractors in the area by the smallholding farmers. In fact, the results Show that the use of tractors has a significant negative impact on crop production income and household labour economy.