Analysis of the determinants of farm power mechanization in Misrak Bedawacho District, Hadiya Zone, Central Ethiopia

This study examined the determinants and current status of farm power mechanization among farmers in Misrak Bedawacho District, Ethiopia, with a focus on identifying factors influencing adoption and the prevailing sources of farm power. Data were collected from 245 respondents through structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression. Results showed that agricultural operations remain dominated by traditional power sources, with animals (oxen) 51% and human labor 32% constituting the majority, while mechanical power accounted for only 17%. The mechanization index was found to be 15.96%, indicating a low level of adoption or animal drawn dominated. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed that farm size, farmer income, farm power availability, farming experience, access to credit, favorable topography, and stakeholders support significantly and positively influenced the adoption of mechanization (p < 0.05). In contrast, demographic factors such as age, gender, family size, and education level were not statistically significant. The low baseline probability of mechanization adoption suggests that without these enabling factors, uptake is unlikely. The findings underscore that economic capacity, physical access to machinery, and institutional support are more critical drivers of mechanization than personal or demographic characteristics. The study recommended targeted measures such as improving access to affordable farm machinery through rental services and cooperative ownership models. It also emphasized the expansion of credit facilities, the improvement of rural infrastructure, and the provision of training on machinery operation and maintenance. These producers could enhance productivity, reduce reliance on labor-intensive methods, and promote agricultural modernization in the district.