The task of land preparation and weeding can be made less labour demanding through improved hoes, row planting, draught animal powered rippers, harrows and planters. Single axle tractor equipment is a specific option that could fit if service-infrastructure and farmer capacities are dealt with. Weed wipes and knapsack sprayer technology with herbicides can eliminate the task of weeding to a large extend if applied in the context of reduced or minimum tillage systems such as raised beds and conservation agriculture.

Harvesting is highly labour intensive and any delay results in losing some of the crop. The technologies described enable households to save time harvesting cereal crops by making the task easier.

The losses resulting from poor handling and storage can be substantial. There are many processes and equipments that make the task easier by saving energy and the time required. They also reduce post-harvest losses, increase the productivity of labour and consequently increase the value of the crop.

The technologies described save time by making the job either smaller (for example, fuel-efficient stoves require less wood) or easier (by planting trees closer to home or harvesting roofwater at home). Alternative energy is another approach to reduce the burden of household tasks.

Transporting tools, inputs and products, carrying water and wood, and transport to schools, medical and administrative centres, place a large demand on rural households. The technologies described save time by making the task easier as each journey becomes less physically demanding. The size of the task is also reduced by increasing the amount carried per day.