Browsing by Author "Kinabo, J."

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Body fat content, distribution and blood glucose concentration among adults population in Ilala Municipality, Dar es salaam, Tanzania
(2015) Majili, Z.S; Kinabo, J.
Body fat content has been associated with increase of blood glucose concentration. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between body fat content, its distribution and blood glucose concentration among adult population. A cross sectional survey was carried among 270 randomly selected adults, aged above 25 years. Bioelectrical impendence technique was used to determine body fat content. Waist-hip-measures were used to assess abdominal obesity. Blood glucose level was determined by GlucoPlus™ meter with a disposable blood glucose test strip. Descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS version 16). The mean age of the subject was 38 ± 10.5(SD). Mean Body fat content was 27 ± 10.3(SD). About 49% and 22% of subjects were obese and underweight respectively. About 83% of the female subjects and more than one third of the subjects aged above 35 years had a waist- hip ratio greater than 0.8. About 40% of the subjects who had fasting blood glucose level < 6.1mmol/L, 49% of them had elevated blood glucose level 2 hours post load glucose. About 50% of subject who had greater body fat content and waist hip ratio had impaired fasting blood glucose and impaired glucose tolerant. Body fat content within the body has significance effects on blood glucose concentration. Consequently, there is a need of increasing awareness about healthy food consumption coupled with regular physical activities so as to reduce the risk of developing diet related chronic diseases.
Body Fat Content, Distribution and Blood Glucose Concentration Among Adults Population in Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(2015) Majili, Z.S; Kinabo, J.
Body fat content has been associated with increase of blood glucose concentration. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between body fat content, its distribution and blood glucose concentration among adult population. A cross sectional survey was carried among 270 randomly selected adults, aged above 25 years. Bioelectrical impendence technique was used to determine body fat content. Waist-hip-measures were used to assess abdominal obesity. Blood glucose level was determined by GlucoPlus™ meter with a disposable blood glucose test strip. Descriptive and inferential statistics were carried out using Statistical Product and Service Solution (SPSS version 16). The mean age of the subject was 38 ± 10.5(SD). Mean Body fat content was 27 ± 10.3(SD). About 49% and 22% of subjects were obese and underweight respectively. About 83% of the female subjects and more than one third of the subjects aged above 35 years had a waist- hip ratio greater than 0.8. About 40% of the subjects who had fasting blood glucose level < 6.1mmol/L, 49% of them had elevated blood glucose level 2 hours post load glucose. About 50% of subject who had greater body fat content and waist hip ratio had impaired fasting blood glucose and impaired glucose tolerant. Body fat content within the body has significance effects on blood glucose concentration. Consequently, there is a need of increasing awareness about healthy food consumption coupled with regular physical activities so as to reduce the risk of developing diet related chronic diseases
Consumption intensity and production constraints of indigenous vegetables: a step in African food and nutrition security
(Margraf Publishers GmbH, Weikersheim Kanalstrasse 21, 97990Weikersheim, 2018) Mbwana, H.; Kinabo, J.; Stuetz, W.; Rybak, C.; Mutabazi, K. D.; Sieber, S.; Konrad, H.; Ski, B.
Food and nutrition insecurity has been a major challenge in Africa. Farmers need to diversify food production in order to alleviate food and nutrition insecurity. With climate change at hand, indigenous vegetables can provide prospects to diversify production systems and improve food, nutrition and income security in many countries. Regardless of their potential, the extent of consumption and diversity of indigenous vegetables in lessening food, nutrition and economic insecurity are not fully exploited in Tanzania. Estimation of consumption intensity of these vegetables is important to understand how their utilisation can be enhanced at the household level. The study evaluated consumption intensity and production constraints of indigenous vegetables. The study was carried out on 600 farm households from four villages in Dodoma and Morogoro, Tanzania. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select districts, villages and households. Districts were selected purposively based on their different agro-ecological characteristics and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The mean consumption of indigenous vegetables was high in 74% of households, but the quantities were below 80% the recommended daily intake (RDI) in 72–96% of households. The mean intakes of vegetables were significantly (p < 0.001) different among the two agro ecological zones. Age of household head, household size and distance to a water source influenced consumption intensity of indigenous vegetables. Identified production constraints were lack of knowledge on the vegetables for example; production practices, cooking methods, utilisation and preservation methods; lack of seeds, low yields and competition with some exotic. The diets of rural community were somehow deficient in terms of different vegetables and amount consumed thus contributing to high prevalence of undernutrition and micronutrient malnutrition. Therefore, strategies that could promote consumption intensity of indigenous vegetables such as health and nutrition education and involving young and male decision makers, extension services and production of these vegetables in home gardens should be employed.
Consumption of dark green leafy vegetables predicts vitamin a and iron intake and status among female small-scale farmers in Tanzania
(Nutrients/ MDPI, 2019) Stuetz, W.; Gowele, V.; Kinabo, J.; Bundala, N.; Mbwana, H.; Rybak, C.; Eleraky, L.; Lambert, C.; Biesalski, H. K.
Inadequate consumption of micronutrient-dense foods such as vegetables and meat are an important contributing cause for anemia and deficiencies of iron and vitamin A in rural communities of Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2016 to examine nutritional and micronutrient status and their associations to the diet of female small-scale farmers in the sub-humid Kilosa (n = 333) and the semi-arid Chamwino (n = 333) districts, in the Morogoro and Dodoma region. An overall higher prevalence of overweight (19.7%) and obesity (7.1%) than of underweight (5.9%) was detected. Significantly more women in the two villages of Kilosa (27–40%) than in the two villages of Chamwino district (19–21%) were overweight/obese, but also more frequently had anemia (34–41% vs. 11–17%), iron deficiency (24–32% vs. 15–17%), and low serum retinol (21–24% vs. 8–9%). Overall, only a small proportion of women reached recommended daily micronutrient intakes: 27% for vitamin A, 17% for iron, 7% for zinc, and 12–38% for B-vitamins. The amount of dark green leafy vegetables (DGLV) consumed was the main determinant of vitamin A and iron intake by women in Chamwino and corresponded to higher hemoglobin, serum retinol and iron status than in the villages of the Kilosa district; in agreement, DGLV consumption also predicted iron and vitamin A intake in Kilosa district. DGLV consumed with wholemeal millet was advantageous in terms of women’s vitamin A and iron intake and status over the predominantly maize-rice-based diet lacking vegetables.
Determinants of household dietary practices in rural Tanzania: Implications for nutrition interventions
(Cogent food & Agriculture, 2016) Mbwana, H. A.; Kinabo, J.; Lambert, C.; Biesalski, H. K.
A household cross-sectional survey of a sample of 120 households to analyze consumption practices and determinants of household dietary diversity in rural areas of differing agro-climatic conditions in Tanzania was conducted in four villages of Morogoro and Dodoma regions. The respondent was the mother/woman or any other person responsible for food preparation and serving in the household. The inclusion criteria were those women who had given consent to participate, those from a rural area and in the age bracket 15 to 49 years. Data were collected using the Food and Agriculture Organization dietary diversity questionnaire with twelve food groups. Two independent multinomial logistic regression models were used to establish relationships between dietary diversity and categorical variables in Morogoro and Dodoma regions. The mean dietary diversity scores were 4.7 and 4.1 for Morogoro and Dodoma, respectively. The Cereals were highly consumed by all households that participated in the study during the past 24 h preceding the survey and that the consumption of animal based protein foods was below 40%. Determinants of household dietary diversity in Morogoro included literacy status of the mother and prior nutrition training/knowledge. In Dodoma, cultivated land size, literacy status of the mother and distance to a water source determined household dietary diversity. It is therefore recommended that nutrition and food security interventions should not only empower rural women but also pay special attention to differences in agro-ecological environments of the areas in determining interventions to address malnutrition and for effective successful implementation and outcomes.
Diet related chronic diseases in rural and urban Dar es Salaam. A case study of Ilala Municipality.
(Nutrion Congress, 2010) Kinabo, J.
Increased energy intake and low physical activity are the major contributors to rising levels of overweight/obesity and their co- morbidities in many parts of the world. A Cross sectional survey was carried out on 270 adults aged above 25 years and residing in rural and urban areas of Ilala Municipality, Dar es Salaam. Food frequency questionnaire and 24-hour recall methods were used to assess energy intake. The Douglas bag technique assessed energy expenditure, nutrition status and body composition were assessed by body mass index, body fat content and waist hip ratio. Prevalence of overweight/obese was higher among urban (28%), female’s (21%) and subjects aged above 45 years (34%). Females had higher body fat content (32%) than males (21%). 45% females and 4% males had waist hip ratio greater than 1 and 0.85 respectively. Mean fasting blood glucose level was 103.2 mg/dl. Females (46%) and subjects aged above 54 years (61%) had fasting blood glucose level between 140-200 mg/dl. Mean total cholesterol concentration was 5 mmol/l, that of low density lipoprotein was 6.0 mmol/l and high density lipoprotein was 1.1 mmol/l. More than 55% consumed refined maize flour, Irish potatoes, vegetable oil, and coconut milk for more than 4 days per week. Mean daily energy intake was 2134 kcal, and mean daily energy expenditure was 1705 kcal; close to 94% of the subjects had a positive energy balance. Subjects know very little about their nutritional status and health risks associated with poor nutritional status. Nutrition education should be emphasised at all levels so as to prevent and decrease prevalence of obesity and associated morbidities.
Dietary patterns and household food insecurity in rural populations of Kilosa district, Tanzania
(2015-05-21) Ntwenya, J. E.; Kinabo, J.; Msuya, J.; Mamiro, P.; Majili, Z. S.
Introduction Few studies have investigated the relationship between dietary pattern and household food insecurity. The objective of the present analysis was to describe the food consumption patterns and to relate these with the prevalence of food insecurity in the context of a rural community. Methodology Three hundred and seven (307) randomly selected households in Kilosa district participated in the study. Data were collected during the rainy season (February–May) and post harvest season (September–October) in the year 2011. Food consumption pattern was determined using a 24-h dietary recall method. Food insecurity data were based on the 30 day recall experience to food insecurity in the household. Factor analysis method using Principal Components extraction function was used to derive the dietary patterns and correlation analysis was used to establish the existing relationship between household food insecurity and dietary patterns factor score. Results Four food consumption patterns namely (I) Meat and milk; (II) Pulses, legumes, nuts and cooking oils; (III) fish (and other sea foods), roots and tubers; (IV) Cereals, vegetables and fruits consumption patterns were identified during harvest season. Dietary patterns identified during the rainy season were as follows: (I) Fruits, cooking oils, fats, roots and tubers (II) Eggs, meat, milk and milk products (III) Fish, other sea foods, vegetables, roots and tubers and (IV) Pulses, legumes, nuts, cereals and vegetables. Household food insecurity was 80% and 69% during rainy and harvest–seasons, respectively (P = 0.01). Household food insecurity access scale score was negatively correlated with the factor scores on household dietary diversity.
Does homestead livestock production and ownership contribute to consumption of animal source foods? A pre-intervention assessment of rural farming communities in Tanzania
(Elsevier, 2020) Bundala, N.; Kinabo, J.; Jumbe, T.; Rybak, C.; Sieber, S.
Livestock production at homestead level is widely reported as an important pathway to achieve optimal consumption of Animal Source Foods (ASF) in a household. However, the empirical evidence is limited. This paper examines the extent of homestead livestock pro- duction and consumption of ASF by rural farming communities in four villages of Dodoma and Morogoro regions, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey of 663 households was carried out. Interviews and focus group discussions (FGDs) with mothers and caregivers sought to understand livestock production and consumption patterns of ASF. Analysis techniques in- cluded Chi-square test, ANOVA and binary regression. Animal source foods were grouped into four categories; (i) meat and meat products, (ii) eggs, (iii) fish, sardines and sea foods, and (iv) milk and dairy products. The average intake of ASF was low for the entire sample, with only 26% of the population consuming at least one of the four types, even though more than half (52.5%) of the surveyed households reported to keep livestock. Generally, proportion of livestock keepers consuming ASF was slightly higher compared to their coun- terparts. Results from chi-square test indicated that, Dodoma households were more likely to consume meat ( χ2 (1) = 11.1, p = 0.0 0 0) and milk ( χ2 (1) = 10.8, p = 0.0 0 0) than Morogoro households ( χ2 (1) = 0.2, p = 0.627 and χ2 (1) = 0.02, p = 0.887). Notably consumption of fish and sardines prevailed more in Morogoro than Dodoma households. Keeping of livestock was further emerged as a significant predictor for consumption of ASF after controlling for demographic factors ( p < 0.01). Findings from FGDs further re- vealed that; low nutrition knowledge, limited number of livestock, monetary and cultural values attached to livestock were the barriers to consumption of ASF. These observations highlight a mismatch between level of production of livestock, availability and actual con- sumption of ASF in rural households. Optimizing the contribution of livestock keeping on the consumption of ASF requires a combination of effort s. These include; addressing socio- cultural norms and practices towards motives for keeping livestock, promoting good live- stock rearing practices to maintain desired stock needed for consumption and households’
Expecting too much from the rural development: a case of the Iringa nutrition project
(Health Digital Library, 2012) Msuya, J.; Kinabo, J.
The Iringa Nutrition Project (INP) supported jointly by the Government of Tanzania and UNICEF was started in 1984 as one way to improve mral livelihood. It was implemented in Jringa region because it was found that despite good food supply in the region, there were still high rates of malnutrition among children. The present study was carried out in Thirty nine villages of Ludewa and Iringa districts to evaluate the performance of the INP. Child growth and nutrition status data for the period between 1984 and 1992 were used. Indicators of project outcome included success in lowering the proportion of malnourished children and extent of coverage (number of children reached). In addition, regression analysis was used in identifying the community characteristics that were responsible for determining rate of mal nutrition changes in the study area. It was observed that 10 percent of the 39 villages in the project area were able to maintain a downward trend in malnutrition during the period 1984- 86 and 18 percent in 1987-92 period. None of the villages was able to sustain a continuous downward trend for the entire period of nine years (1984 to 1992). The regression ana ysis revealed that malnutrition declined significantly in those wards where the rates of malnutri tion were highest at the outset of the project. In addition Dominant cropping system and population size indirectly affected the capability to improve nutrition through their influence on coverage. In conclusion, the lringa Nutrition Project appears to have had only a modest impact on improving the nutritional status of children in lringa. This implies that, while the use o_f projects to combat malnutrition in poor countries may still be inevitable, we should not expect too much from these projects.
Factors influencing stunting among children in rural Tanzania: an agro-climatic zone perspective
(Springer, 2017-04) Mbwana, H. A.; Kinabo, J.; Lambert, C.; Biesalski, H. K.
This paper analyzed stunting in children in Tanzania and its linkages to agro-climatic conditions and related factors, unraveling the complex interactions of determinants of under-nutrition in two contrasting regions of Tanzania. We used logistic regression models to establish relationships between stunting and multiple variables belonging to different domains. The prevalence of stunting and severe stunting in children was 41% and 21% respectively, while 11% of women had a Body Mass Index of below 18.5. Results also indicate that 17% of children and 16% of women were anaemic. Regression analysis showed that major determinants of child stunting in the semi-arid Dodoma region are cultivated land size, gender and age of the child, duration of breastfeeding, household size, use of iodized salt and the distance to a water source. In sub-humid Morogoro, cultivated land size, a child’s age, duration of breastfeeding, literacy status of the mother and Body Mass Index of the mother predict stunting. We discuss how these factors influence the nutrition status of children in each agro-climatic region. The pooled model provided strong evidence to link agro-climatic zone characteristics to stunting among children. It is recommended that nutrition interventions should be specific to agroclimatic environments. Implementing agro-climatic sensitive interventional actions may help to reduce undernutrition and food insecurity in specific areas.
Food intake and dietary diversity of farming households in Morogoro Region, Tanzania
(AJFAND, 2016) Kinabo, J.; Mamiro, P.; Dawkins, N.; Bundala, N.; Mwanri, A.; Majili, Z.; Jumbe, T.; Kulwa, K.; Mamiro, D.; Amuri, N.; Ngowi, M.; Msuya, J.
The Tanzanian economy depends heavily on agriculture and hence human labor provides much of the power needed for farming activities. This study was carried out to determine the diversity and dietary adequacy of farming households in four selected districts of Morogoro region in Tanzania. Adult household members from 140 households participated in the study. A 24-hour dietary recall, dietary diversity score and frequency of food consumption tools were used to assess and quantify nutrient intake and adequacy of consumed diets in farming households. Tanzania food composition tables were used to compute estimates of the energy intake, macro and micronutrients consumed by farming households. Analysis was done using SPSS version 18 and Microsoft excel version 10. Cereal food group was consumed in relatively large quantities compared to other food groups in the surveyed households. The contribution of cereal group to energy intake was 75-82%, protein 8-16% and fat 9-14%. Stiff porridge made of maize flour was the mostly consumed cereal dish followed by rice. The mean intake of energy per day was inadequate; the intake of energy for men was 1402 kcal/day while for female was 1347 kcal/day meeting only 52% and 72%, respectively of the recommended energy intake. Generally, the consumption of protein from the animal sources was significantly low in all districts. Ninety-nine percent of the households rarely consumed eggs; 83% rarely consumed meat and poultry. Consumption of milk and milk products was inadequate as 92% of the households indicated that they rarely consumed these products. The intake of fat was also low by 53% compared to the recommended intake for adults. The intake of iron, zinc, and calcium was 40, 53 and 64%, respectively, which was not sufficient to meet daily requirements. Low intake of nutrients was generally attributed to inadequate food intake due to low feeding frequency, poorly diversified diets and sub- optimal practices in food preparation and cooking. The results from surveyed areas indicated that all districts are rich in terms of bio-diversity and food availability, nevertheless the consumption of these foods in the study communities was inadequate with regards to quantity and quality. This situation compromises nutritional status and pre-disposes farming households to diseases and infections hence affects work output, labor productivity and wealth generation. Educating farmers on the importance of consuming diversified and adequate diets from different food groups will improve their nutrition situation and stimulate more production hence increased agricultural productivity.
Gaps in knowledge and practice on dietary consumption among rural farming households; a call for nutrition education training in Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis, 2019) Bundala, N.; Kinabo, J.; Jumbe, T.; Bonatti, M.; Rybak, C.; Sieber, S.
Dietary-related conditions are preventable only if people have better understanding of factors that underpin their dietary choices. A cross-sectional study was carried out to examine levels and gaps of nutrition knowledge and practices (KPs) of 663 mothers/caregivers in rural households of Tanzania. Results indicated that, only 14% of the population had received nutrition education prior to the survey. The mean KP score was 6.9 (±2.6) out of 20 with only 17% of the study population had KP scores above the mean. The average proportion of those who had correct responses above mean was 27% for knowledge and 22% practices. Low coverage of nutrition education and poor participation of men in nutrition education activities were frequently reported as the barriers for adoption of desirable dietary practices at households. The KP levels are far below the recommended FAO thresholds and entail high levels of nutrition illiteracy which call for immediate intervention.
Harvesting vegetables from the kitchen garden: an educative and sustainable approach to improve dietary practices and nutritional status among rural families in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2019) Mbwana, H. A.; Kinabo, J.; Lambert, C.; Biesalski, H. K.
Undernutrition continues to inflict significant social, health and economic consequences in developing countries, Tanzania inclusive. The aim of the present study was to implement, monitor and assess the impact of bag gardening and household nutrition education on dietary practices and nutritional status in rural villages in Tanzania. Nutrition education covered various gaps observed in a preceded nutrition survey (baseline). Bag gardening practical demonstrations and hand on implementation skills were carried out to the participating 120 households. McNemar and marginal homogeneity tests were conducted to compare the baseline to endline results for each section of the questionnaire. Results indicated that at baseline only 27% of households had a high Dietary Diversity Score as compared to 52% at endline. Daily and weekly consumption rates increased by 10-50% from baseline to endline periods.There were significant differences in knowledge aspects of factors influencing inclusion of vegetables in a meal, knowledge of bag and cultivation of vegetables in a bag garden, receiving nutrition education before, knowledge of foods that increase intake of fibre, knowledge of food groups and iron deficiency anaemia between the baseline and endline time points with p<0.05.The intervention increased consumption of green leafy vegetables, dietary diversity and nutrition knowledge of participants in the topics covered including general nutrition, nutrition requirements for specific groups, preparation and preservation of foods, improving nutrition through kitchen gardens and tips for improving health. We recommend progressing this type of intervention further by selecting foods containing high vitamin A amounts to be included in bag gardens.
Household food insecurity and associated factors in rural communities: a case of Kilosa District, Tanzania
(African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2015) Ntwenya, J.; Kinabo, J.; Msuya, J.; Mamiro, P.; Mamiro, D.; Katalambula, L.
Food insecurity continues to be a major contributing factor to nutrition insecurity in developing countries. A nine item Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) was administered twice to 307 households among three agro-ecological zones in rural communities of Kilosa District-Tanzania to measure food security. Households were surveyed once during the rainy season (February–May) and once immediately post harvest (September–October) in the year 2011. The mean HFIAS score was the highest during the rainy season (8.15±6.06) and ranged from 0 to 26. During the harvest season, the mean HFIAS was 6.76±5.88 and ranged from 0 to 24. Using the categorical measure of food insecurity, the proportion of food secure households was higher during harvest season (31.3%) than was the case 19.9% during the rainy season. Similarly, 31.6% of the surveyed households were classified as being most food insecure during the rainy season as opposed to 26.1% during the harvest season (P=0.01). Food insecurity persisted among 39.2% of the surveyed households during the rainy season and period after harvest. The households in which at least one member offered casual labour such as the clearance of the farm fields, had 2.1 higher odds (95% CI: 1.05 to 4.29) of being food insecure. A substantial proportion of the surveyed households were food insecure across agricultural seasons and in various agro-ecological zones.
Nutrient intake of women of child bearing age from two Agro-climatic zones of Rural Areas in Tanzania
(Tajas, 2020) Mbwana, H. A.; Kinabo, J.
Nutrient deficiencies impose significant public health problems in many developing countries affecting especially women of child bearing age and children. A household cross-sectional survey involving a sample of 351 households was conducted in four villages of Morogoro and Dodoma regions, representing two different agro-climatic regions, to examine nutrient intake from food in rural women of childbearing age. The respondent was the mother/caregiver in the household. Dietary intake data were collected by using a quantitative 24 hour dietary recall questionnaire. Nutrient intake was analyzed using NutriSurvey program. Nutrients consumed was classified into energy, protein, fat, carbohydrate, vitamin A, vitamin B 1 , vitamin B 2 , vitamin B 6 , vitamin B 12 , folic acid, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and zinc. The mean daily intake of energy was 1976 Kcal (95% CI: 1886.1-2066.5) for Morogoro and 1651 Kcal (95% CI: 1553.0-1747.0) for Dodoma. Daily mean intake of protein was 61.2g (95% CI: 56.9-65.4) for Morogoro and 36.7g (95% CI: 32.3- 41.1) for Dodoma. Mean fat intake was 33.0g (95% CI: 30.1-35.9) for Morogoro and 23.9g (95% CI: 20.8-27.0) for Dodoma. Vitamin A (retinol equivalents) intake in Dodoma was higher than the recommended amounts at 823.4g (95% CI: 710.1-916.1) but lower than the recommended intake in Morogoro at 335.3g (95% CI: 271.0-400.0). Even though both districts did not meet the recommended nutrient intake for vitamin B12, Dodoma had the lowest intake at 0.6mg (95% CI: 0.31, 0.83) compared to Morogoro 1.5 mg (95% CI: 1.13, 1.84). The results of this study suggest different nutrient consumption patterns between Dodoma and Morogoro based on the agro- climatic condition of the districts which also influence the type of foods produced in particular areas. This calls for support for education on food and dietary intake that purposely accentuate increasing production and consumption of a diversity of foods preferred in a certain agro-climatic environment. This should include consumption of animal source foods to increase the intake of nutrients.
Overweight and obesity among adults in Same District, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Msollo, S. S.; Chivaghula, T. J.; Muhimbula, H. S.; Kinabo, J.; Krawinkel, M.
Overweight and obesity are malnutrition which needs great attention due to their health consequences. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 362 adults aged 25-55 years in 2012 to examine the prevalence of overweight, obesity and risk factors through; assessing nutritional status, dietary intake and physical activities in lowland and highland areas of Same District, Kilimanjaro Region. Demographic, dietary intake and physical activity were obtained using a structured questionnaire. Weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were determined using standard WHO procedures. Data were analyzed using Statistical Product and Service Solutions version 16, excels and NutriSurvey 2007 program. The prevalence of overweight was 23% and obesity 17%. Women were more than 4 times likely to be overweight and obese compared to men (OR 5.53, 95% CI: 3.11 – 9.82). Lowland had high prevalence of overweight and obesity compared to highland areas (OR 2.034, 95% CI: 1.138-2.952). About 33% of lowland subjects had excess energy intake compared to 23% of highland (p=0.050). Positive energy balance was significantly associated with overweight and obesity (OR 1.12, 95% CI: 0.66 – 1.91). The mean Physical Activity Level for highland was 2.2 compared to 1.87 of lowland areas (p<0.05). Overweight and obesity was significantly related to income, sex, residence, education, farming technology, carrying produce, occupation, employment, energy balance and age (P<0.005). The high prevalence of overweight and obesity especially in lowland may be due to physical activities and energy intake which are controllable. These findings will assist health stakeholders to allow design of appropriate interventions to reduce the problems.
Physical and chemical characteristics of off vine ripened mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruit (Dodo)
(Afr. J. Biotechno, 2007) Mamiro, P.; Fweja, L.; Chove, B.; Kinabo, J.; George, V.; Mtebe, K.
The need to develop the best off vine mango ripening technique for both consumption and processing was investigated. Some physical and chemical measurements were performed on mature Green Dodo mangoes before and during a 3-day and 6-day ripening period by smoked pit ripening (SPR), ethylene (fruit generated) pit ripening (EPR), untreated pit ripening (UPR) and room temperature ripening (RTR) as a control method. The post harvest ripening changes in the quality characteristic of ripe mangoes were correlated among treatments and compared with similar changes in other mango varieties. Changes such as formation of sugars, decreased acidity, and increased carotene reflected the most significant chemical changes in ripeness stage.
Provitamin a carotenoids, tocopherols, ascorbic acid and minerals in indigenous leafy vegetables from Tanzania
(MDPI, 2019) Gowele, V. F.; Kinabo, J.; Jumbe, T.; Kirschmann, C.; Frank, J.; Stuetz, W.
The essential micronutrients in indigenous leafy vegetables (ILVs) could substantially contribute to the micronutrient supply in rural communities in Tanzania, but concentrations differ between species. Provitamin A carotenoids, tocopherols, ascorbic acid, minerals, and phytate were analysed in 13 different species using HPLC-, ICP-OES, and photometric techniques. Eight of the 13 ILVs, including Amaranthus ssp. and Sesamum angustifolium, had high -carotene concentrations (2.91–4.84 mg/100 g fresh weight), which could provide 50% of vitamin A’s recommended nutrient intake (RNI). Six ILVs including Cleome hirta and Sonchus luxurians had high iron contents (34.5–60.4 mg/100 g, >50% RNI); Amaranthus ssp. represented the ILV with high calcium, magnesium and zinc contents (85%, 207% and 21% of RNI per 100 g); Cleome hirta and Cleome gynandra had high ascorbic acid contents (>15 mg/100 g, 34–35% of RNI), while Sesamum angustifolium was the only ILV with a high tocopherol content (7.34 mg -TE/100 g). The highest phytate concentration was found in Amaranthus ssp., which could negatively affect its role as a very good source of minerals. Results indicate that the analysed ILVs could make a substantial contribution to the vitamin A and iron supply in the diets of rural Tanzanian populations.
Rural agriculture for improved nutrition: stakeholder insights from different sectors in Tanzania
(CUVILLIER VERLAG, 2017-09) Mbwana, H.; Kinabo, J.; Reif, C.; Stuetz, W.; Sieber, S.; Mutabazi, K. D.; Biesalski, H. K.
Nutrition sensitive pathways and approaches involving agriculture are being recognised as essential to guarantee nutrition security and lessen undernutrition. In Tanzania, the majority of the population lives in the rural areas and 80% depend on agriculture as the main source of livelihood. Although agriculture can play a big role in alleviating undernutrition, its role in tackling malnutrition needs to be dealt with based on policies to the actual implementation. This study aimed to investigate perspectives of stakeholders on links between rural agriculture and nutrition, opportunities and challenges, evidences and policy inferences. Methodology: Open ended interviews were conducted with 11 stakeholders identified for the Scale-N project in Tanzania who contribute in one way or another to the nutrition sector. Two focus group discussions with 20 farmers from Mzula and Tindiga villages in Dodoma and Kilosa were conducted. Stakeholders acknowledged obstacles to better achievement of undernutrition reduction which included absence of clear cut motivations in the agriculture sector regarding enhancing nutrition, concentrating on cash crops, lack of accountability for agriculture matters for improving nutrition, policies exist but putting them into action is hindered, limited competence in the available human resources, absence of coordination between sectors, lack of proof that agriculture works for nutrition and economic constraints to support agriculture. Possible measures mentioned to be taken to improve rural agriculture for better nutrition including home gardening with different crops, nutrition training, better access to markets and labour saving technologies to women. From the farmers’ side, 13 mentioned lack of extension services, 17 mentioned lack of access to agricultural productive resources, lack of knowledge about nutritious and safe food and the majority mentioned increased occurrences of natural disasters such as floods and serious drought. Numerous possibilities are present to strengthen the role of agriculture on nutrition in Tanzania, however, there is need to strengthen the structure and making of policies which will in turn need proper implementation for the desired success.
Tackling food and nutrition insecurity in Tanzania: farmers perspectives on kitchen gardening as a sustainable approach
(DITSL GmbH, Witzenhausen, German, Tropentag Conference, 2015-09) Mbwana, H.; Lambert, C.; Kinabo, J.; Konrad, H.
Under nutrition and food insecurity are major problems faced by most of the developing countries including Tanzania. Foods with high nutrient content are difficult to find in the poorer rural areas where most people are dependent on staple foods with little diversity. Kitchen gardens play an important role in fulfiling dietary and nutritional needs. This study sought to investigate the perceptions and practices by farmers on how kitchen gardening can be transformed into a sustainable nutrition and livelihood strategy in order to come up with information not only on socio-economic sustainability but also on the environmental sustainability of kitchen gardens in rural Tanzania. Focus group discussions, key informant interviews, field observations and secondary sources of data were used. The researcher used observation guide to identify some of the issues that could not come out clearly during focus group discussions. The study was undertaken in Idifu village, Chamwino district in Dodoma. A total of 28 farmers were involved. Only 18% of households practised kitchen gardening. It was regarded as the activity of women. About 80% of the respondents did not have indicted budget to buy seeds and inputs for kitchen gardening. About 85% of farmers indicated it has a potential to be a secondary source of income. Water was a limiting factor in 78% of the participants. About 80% of farmers did not posses radios, and 20% possessed radios but sometimes they lacked money to buy batteries. This constraints the spread of kitchen gardening information through media. This study confirms that kitchen gardening can be changed into a sustainable nutrition and livelihood strategy in Chwamino district and other similar environments if the farmers have access to training on the sustainable use of natural resources such as water and land and can afford adequate access to resources.