ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on an evaluation of relevant technology in the mechanization of agricultural production in developing countries, with a view to bridging the gap in the information as presented. It focuses on the key factors affecting mechanization, with a future outlook to improving agricultural productivity and reducing cost. The chapter also examines mechanization in both large- and small-scale agricultural fields. It evaluates the opportunities concerning the adoption of specific advanced technology. The chapter presents case studies of agricultural mechanization and also discusses the challenges of mechanization. It also reviews the applications of some of advanced mechanization technologies. Agricultural mechanization is the application of equipment and machinery, as well as the implementation of farm tools to improve the productivity of farm labour and land, in order to maximize outputs and increase agricultural and food production. It has been established that most developing countries currently practice the first and second levels of mechanization, compared to developed countries.
