Design, modification, and manufacture of animal-drawn secondary tillage implements for wheat-based light soil farming systems in Misrak Bedawacho District, Central Ethiopia.

This study focused on the design modification, manufacture, and performance evaluation of animal-drawn secondary tillage tools for furrowing in a wheat-based light soil farming system in 2nd Chefa Kebele, Misrak Bedawacho District, Hadiya Zone, Central Ethiopia. The objective was to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the traditional maresha plough while maintaining compatibility with local farming practices. Field experiments were conducted under actual farming conditions using pairs of oxen, comparing traditional and modified implements based on weight, tillage depth, rake angle, pulling force, draft force, field capacity, efficiency, structural safety, and soil physical properties. The modified tools were lighter and incorporated a reduced rake angle and multi-plough configurations to enhance performance. Results showed significant improvements, with working time reduced from 6.89 h to 1.98 h for 0.25 ha and field capacity increasing from 0.036 to 0.126 ha/hr, while field efficiency reached up to 99.21%. Although draft force increased slightly with additional ploughshares, pulling force remained within manageable limits. Structural analysis confirmed that all components operated safely within allowable stress limits. The modified tools also improved soil plasticity and moisture retention, supporting better crop establishment. In conclusion, the modified animal-drawn tillage implements offer a practical, efficient, and sustainable solution for smallholder farmers by enhancing productivity and reducing labor and animal fatigue. It is recommended that these tools be promoted through local fabrication, extension services, and farmer training, while further studies should assess long-term performance, adaptability, and adoption across different agro-ecological conditions.