Mechanization in Tanzania: Impact of Tractorization on Intensification and Extensification of Rice Farming

Abstract

In this chapter, we explore the effects of mechanized tillage among rice farmers in Tanzania. We use two-year panel data to examine the expansion of the area under rice cultivation (extensification) and the intensive use of yield-enhancing rice technologies (intensification). We categorize farmers based on the implements they use to prepare their rice plots, namely four-wheel tractors (4WTs), two-wheel tractors or power tillers (2WTs), draft animals (DAs), and the use of manually operated tools such as hand hoes (HTs). We then examine how the use of each implement is associated with intensification and extensification. We find, among other things, that 2WTs are highly associated with high adoption rates of improved rice technology, resulting in high paddy yield. We do not find any strong evidence that 4WTs or 2WTs significantly affect extensification compared to DAs. This chapter’s findings suggest that, since 2WTs can play a role in the intensification of rice farming in SSA, policies to promote the use of this mechanical technology should be implemented.