AGRICULTURAL MECHANIZATION: A MAJOR INPUT AND DRIVER FOR SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURAL TRANSFORMATION AND INDUSTRIALIZATION IN TANZANIA.

Agricultural mechanization has been defined as a process of improving labour and farm productivity. There are basically three levels of mechanization: hand too technology; Animal drawn powered technology and mechanical power. The paper highlights the need to move from hand hoe technology in order to achieve the industrialization drive currently promoted by the Tanzanian government. Examples of possible areas for industrialization through the promotion of mechanization inputs have been discussed. It is argued that the promotion of mechanization inputs along the agricultural value chain can enhance the self employment, improve farm production levels and encourage small scale industries in rural areas.