Socio-environmental Analysis and Financial Profitability of the Efficiency of Agricultural Machinery on Rice and Maize Fields in Benin

Abstract

Agriculture requires sustainable mechanization in Benin to increase production. This study analyzes the socio-environmental impact and financial efficiency of mechanized agricultural equipment. We adopted a methodology that integrated bibliographic research, observations, in-depth analyses and surveys in Lalo. Data analysis indicates that agricultural mechanization improves soil permeability and reduces the greenhouse effect. Socially, it contributes to the reducing of poverty, working time and labour costs. However, constraints such as the unavailability of tools, breakdowns, and negative impacts such as soil depletion and air pollution are noted. It causes unemployment and requires significant investments. The majority (88.89%) of the machines were mainly rented, costing 70,000 FCFA for small equipment and 50,000 FCFA for heavy equipment per hectare. For rice production, the income of a producer using motorized tillers far exceeds (109,400 F) that of using traditional tools (43,632 F). An increase of 60.12% (65,768 F). The income of a producer using tractors for corn production is higher (80,700 F) than that using traditional tools (48,599 F). We observe an increase of 39.78 per cent (32,101 F). Repairs are complex. Recommendations, such as access to agricultural credit, improved access to equipment, and the training of producers, aim to promote sustainable mechanization.