Browsing by Author "Hella, Joseph P"

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Assessment of the Impact of Sustainable Land Use Practices on Food Security in West Usambara Mountains, Tanzania
(2014) Temu, Emmanuel J; Hella, Joseph P
This paper assessed the impact(s) of practicing sustainable land management (SLM) technology on food security in West Usambara Mountains. Primary data were collected through household questionnaires, focus group discussions, key informants interviews and personal observations while secondary data were collected from relevant local authority reports and records. A total of 160 households were interviewed. Research results suggest that, the area is still experiencing soil erosion problem reported by 61.9% of the respondents although at reduced scale. Multiple linear regression model to establish the contributing factors revealed that age of household head, farmland ownership and household income have significant and positive impact on improving household dietary diversity and hence improves food security while non adopters of SLM showed declined dietary diversity. The study conclude that in order to increase food security keeping soil health in place through practicing SLM is a necessary condition.The study concludes that, to increase your food security keep your soil in place by practicing SLM.
Factors influencing farmers’ decision on the choice of maize seed varieties in Kilosa and Mvomero districts, Morogoro,Tanzania
(Eastern and Southern Africa Journal of Agricultural Economics & Development, 2025-03) Majuva, Jacqueline P; Hella, Joseph P; Seluhinga, Nicetus
A study was conducted with a sample size of 208 farmers to assess the factors influencing their choice of maize seed varieties in the Kilosa and Mvomero districts of the Morogoro region in Tanzania. The researchers utilised a binary logistic regression model for the analysis. The results indicated that farmers' decisions were significantly influenced by the expected yield (p = 0.012) and were marginally influenced by household size (p = 0.061). The study underscored the need for policymakers to prioritise creating networks that connect farmers to agricultural experts and extension services as well as addressing barriers to accessibility, such as affordability and availability of certified maize seeds. The stakeholders, including government and non-governmental organisations, can design targeted strategies that enhance seed adoption. Comprehensive agricultural policies that incorporate these insights can lay the base for a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector in the region. The study showcases the important role of training and education in empowering farmers to make informed decisions regarding maize seed selection. The study also points to the importance of community engagement in the dissemination of information about new seed varieties and agricultural practices. Establishing farmer groups or cooperatives can create platforms for knowledge sharing, enabling farmers to learn from each other’s experiences and successes. This collective approach not only strengthens the farmers' capacity to adapt to changing agricultural challenges but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose.