Browsing by Author "Martin, R."

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A comparative analysis of RIPAT and other selected participatory rural development approaches used in Tanzania.
(Mkuki na Nyota, 2023) Madaha, Rasel; Martin, R.; Mwakatoga, J.
Influenced by the African socialism philosophy of the late Julius Nyerere and the participant research practices of Marja Liisa Swantz, Tanzania is one of the pioneers of participatory action research in the world. Within the mentioned milieu, participatory approaches have become widespread. The approaches are geared at enabling rural communities to address their challenges through participatory approaches. This book chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of locally improved rural development approaches that have been developed and improved in the Tanzanian context. Using primary and secondary data from some Tanzanian rural interventions by Uluguru Mountains Agricultural Development Project (process approach) and World Vision Tanzania (ADP approach), the chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of the mentioned strategies and RIPAT (Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation) to shed some light on rural development efforts in the Tanzanian context. The process approach involves participatory endogenous processes of development that start with the recognition of the local capacities of the people. The ADP (Area Development Programmes) approach is a participatory approach that seeks to induce communities with capabilities to undertake appropriate actions to accomplish economic and social progress. More recently, World Vision Tanzania (WVT) reframed the acronym ADP by calling it Tanzania Empowerment ADP Model (TEAM). RIPAT is a participatory extension approach that transfers a ‘basket’ of agricultural technology options, including various crops and livestock, to groups of 25 to 30 smallholder farmers in a way that allows for joint, experiential, and participatory learning. In 2017 Research, Community and Organisational Development Associates (RECODA) entered a two year contract with WVT of co-owning the approach; the agreement ended in 2019. The engagement allowed World Vision Tanzania to use the RIPAT approach in ADPs. All in all, some literature suggests that participatory approaches fail to empower people in real life situation. In this regard and drawing from the participatory theory and practice, the chapter assesses the sustainability of the approaches.
Access and use of information communication technologies by agricultural extension agents in Tanzania
(Huria Journal, 2017-07) Martin, R.; Kahamba, J. S.
Many studies have focused on the use of ICT by farmers; however, little attention has been on the use ICT by agricultural extension agents who are the bridge between source of agricultural knowledge and technologies on one hand and the smallholders on the other. Based on a cross sectional study of agricultural extension agents enrolled at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), in this paper we present, as a point of departure, the extent of access and usage of ICT by agricultural extension agents in Tanzania. Also, factors that influence the use of ICT by Agricultural Extension Agents are assessed. Finally, a conclusion is made and recommendations offered based on the findings.
Competences of agricultural extension agents in dissemination of climate change adaptation strategies in Misungwi district, Tanzania
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2025-03-28) Samweli, Sagire Nelson; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
This paper assessed the awareness and competencies of extension agents regarding climate change in Tanzania, utilizing questionnaires from 64 agents and analysing data through descriptive statistics. Results indicated a high knowledge level, with an overall mean score of 6.36; 70.3% identified drought and extreme weather as significant climate change effects, and 82.8% recognized soil conservation as vital for adaptation. However, knowledge gaps were noted in crop diversification (53.1%) and climate-resilient crop varieties (46.9%). Skills assessment yielded a mean score of 6.8, with 70.3% competent in recommending mulching and drip irrigation, and 75.0% guiding farmers in organic farming. Attitudes towards climate adaptation were generally positive, with a mean score of 3.97; 73.5% valued continuous learning. Yet, practice inconsistencies emerged, as only 23.4% frequently recommended climate-resilient practices and 37.5% regularly implemented innovative solutions. Institutional support was inadequate, with the highest support observed in policy availability (54.7%), while the lowest was in digital tool provision, as none of the extension agents (100%) had access to such resources. The findings suggest that enhanced training, improved communication, and better resource allocation are essential for strengthening extension agents' roles in aiding farmers' climate change adaptation in Tanzania.
Competences of agricultural extension agents in using value chain approach in advising farmers in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Kalungwizi, V. J.; Martin, R.; Busindeli, I. M.
Recently, value chain approach in agriculture has been promoted in order to cope with market challenges which smallholder farmers face. This has necessitated changes in roles of extension agents who are supposed to advice farmers beyond the production node. However, most of the extension agents have assumed the new roles without being equipped necessary knowledge and skills to enable them discharge their roles effectively. In this context, extension agents’ competences in advising farmers along the entire value chain and its implication are not fully investigated and understood. The, purpose of this study was to investigate the competences of extension agents in advising farmers along agricultural value chain in Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to answer three questions; 1) to what extent do extension agents support farmers along the value chain? 2) which aspects of the value chain are well supported and which ones are not well supported? 3) what are the perceived obstacles that limit extension agents advise farmers beyond the production node?. To answer these questions a convenient sample of 196 field extension agents was used. Data was collected using an online questionnaire supplemented by Key Informant Interviews conducted through mobile phones. Quantitative data was analysed by SPSS and qualitative data was analysed thematically. Findings show that extension agents have sufficient knowledge and positive attitude that would enable them to perform their work effectively. However, the knowledge and positive attitude have not been translated into practice. Limited access to retooling training was the major obstacle limiting extension agents perform their roles effectively. For farmers to become competitive in the global market, the study recommends retooling training on marketing and market linkage to be offered to field extension agents.
Extension advisory services on farmer’s climate change mitigation strategies in Misungwi district, Tanzania: issues and options
(International Journal of Environment and Climate Change, 2025-02-17) Samweli, Sagire Nelson; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
This study evaluates the impact of extension advisory services on farmers’ climate change mitigation strategies. Questionnaires were completed by 64 extension agents and data were analysed using descriptive statistics. The study found that the most common method used for identifying farmers’ climate change adaptation needs is extension agents visiting farmers (84.6%), followed by training sessions are less frequently used (26.2%), and other methods are rarely employed (1.5%). Insufficient training on climate change, with a frequency of 55, resource constraints, reported by around 49 respondents and limited access to climate information also stand out as a significant issue, with a frequency of about 41, and lastly knowledge barriers with 39 respondents were shown as the challenges encountered during dissemination of advisory services to farmers. This study revealed that majority (56.9%) of extension agents reported receiving transport facilities, while 41.5% had access to timely updated information. Though, only 18.5% of respondents indicated receiving regular training. This study concludes that the majority of extension agents have reported that they do not receive sufficient support in their efforts to educate farmers on how to adapt to climate change. The extension agents are not prepared to deal with the complexities of climate change, despite the fact that they rely on personal visits to capture the needs of the farmers. The low level of diversity engagement approaches, the low rates of hands-on training, and the moderate perceptions of comfort in communicating climate information are all indicators that this is the case. In addition, many extension agents believe that the increase of these concerns is caused by resource problems, which include inadequate access to timely information, inadequate training, and inadequate financial resources. This study recommends that the government should allocate enough resources aimed at supporting the extension agents in fulfilling their operations.
Factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst smallholder farmers in Singida Tanzania
(AJOL, 2023) Humphrey, S. C.; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
Groundnut is amongst the global important food and cash crops; irrespective of its importance, studies report its low adoption. Amongst the reported adoption factors were age, gender, education, group membership and seed availability. Nevertheless, there is insufficient documentation on the influence of these factors on the adoption of groundnut amongst beneficiaries of Singida Rural Farmer Research Networks (FRNs). Innovation systems, networks and Roger’s theories of diffusion of innovations guided this study to establish the determinants of the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst these target groups. Specifically, the study (1) assessed the adoption of improved groundnuts in relation to farmers’ socio-economic characteristics; (2) determined the factors that influenced the adoption of improved groundnuts and (3) examined farmers’ adoption perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Cross-sectional design and mixed research methods were used. The socioeconomic characteristics of farmers were compared using Chi-square test cross-tabulations. The binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. A Likert scale was used to assess the farmers’ perceptions towards the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars in relation to access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Findings show that socioeconomic characteristics such as age, sex, marital status, education level and income had no significant influence on the adoption of improved groundnuts. The adoption of improved groundnuts was significantly influenced by three factors: FRN group membership, seed accessibility and technological characteristics which include adaptive to agroecological zones, high yields, early maturity, drought tolerance, pests and disease resistance. The majority of farmers had a positive perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment for the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. In this regard, sensitization for more farmers to join groups and enhancement of timely seed availability and accessibility of improved groundnut cultivars are recommended.
Factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst smallholder farmers in Singida Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Humphrey, S. C.; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
Groundnut is amongst the global important food and cash crops; irrespective of its importance, studies report its low adoption. Amongst the reported adoption factors were age, gender, education, group membership and seed availability. Nevertheless, there is insufficient documentation on the influence of these factors on the adoption of groundnut amongst beneficiaries of Singida Rural Farmer Research Networks (FRNs). Innovation systems, networks and Roger’s theories of diffusion of innovations guided this study to establish the determinants of the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst these target groups. Specifically, the study (1) assessed the adoption of improved groundnuts in relation to farmers’ socio-economic characteristics; (2) determined the factors that influenced the adoption of improved groundnuts and (3) examined farmers’ adoption perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Cross-sectional design and mixed research methods were used. The socioeconomic characteristics of farmers were compared using Chi-square test cross-tabulations. The binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. A Likert scale was used to assess the farmers’ perceptions towards the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars in relation to access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Findings show that socioeconomic characteristics such as age, sex, marital status, education level and income had no significant influence on the adoption of improved groundnuts. The adoption of improved groundnuts was significantly influenced by three factors: FRN group membership, seed accessibility and technological characteristics which include adaptive to agroecological zones, high yields, early maturity, drought tolerance, pests and disease resistance. The majority of farmers had a positive perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment for the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. In this regard, sensitization for more farmers to join groups and enhancement of timely seed availability and accessibility of improved groundnut cultivars are recommended.
Farmers' perceptions of contract farming in Tanzania: a case study of Mtibwa out-grower sugar cane scheme in Morogoro Region
(2015-06) Martin, R.; Mwaseba, D. L.
Globally, the role of contract farming for improving farmers' livelihoods has been a topic of interest and controversy for at least the past four decades. While some research . findings recommend contract farming as a strategy to be adopted for improving farmers' livelihoods, others have expressed reservations regarding the stated benefits. They raise concerns that the "formal contract farming bandwagon- and interventions that strive to integrate rural smallholders into more formal and commercial market systems' do not always deliver the benefits portrayed during promotion of new interventions. Drawing on an empirical study, this paper assesses how contract farming at Mtibwa Sugarcane Out-grower Scheme is viewed by . farmers: specifically, perceptions regarding contract farming among cane growers with reference to its advantages and disadvantages are examined.
Perceived effects of tree planting in Iringa and Njombe regions Tanzania
(International Forestry Review, 2025) Martin, R.; Mhando, D.G.; Nyanda, S. S.; Lusasi, J.
The study investigated the perceived effects of tree planting initiatives at a community level within Southern Highlands of Tanzania, addressing a critical gap in the literature regarding local responses to economic benefits and the pursuit of sustainability goals. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study integrated quantitative data with qualitative interviews from local stakeholders. Results indicated enhanced economic benefits from sustainable tree products, which contributed to improved livelihoods and community resilience against climate impacts. The implications suggest that small-scale afforestation can be a viable solution to environmental degradation while providing economic and social benefits to local communities. The findings advocate for policy recommendations that support the integration of tree growing into agricultural practices, promoting sustainability and resilience in small-holder territories.
Power dynamics between farmers and market masters: a case of tomato value chain in Kilolo District and Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania
(International Journal of Information and Communication Technology Research, 2016) Nyamba, S. Y.; Martin, R.; Kalungwizi, V. J.; Busindeli, I. M.; Kilima, F. T. M.; Bengesi, C.P. M.; Chija, B. B.; Mvena, Z. S. K.; Mlozi, M. R. S.; Gjotterud, S. M.; Kiranga, E.
Like in many places in rural Tanzania, tomato production has become an important economic horticultural activity. The main reasons for the sudden upsurge of tomato production over the past few years include its better market prospect compared to other traditional crops although this prospect vary across seasons and locations. Of late however, tomato farmers have faced a number of challenges in the production and marketing of tomatoes. The main challenges include high cost of production and perishable nature of the crop that induce significant variation in farmers’ earnings. Another challenge facing tomato producers is the long chain of actors between production and consumption leading to information gaps between farmers and consumers in terms of optimal price for the product. This paper examines the status of tomato marketing with respect to information sharing and power relations between farmers and market masters in the tomato value chain. The paper concludes by giving possible avenues for resolving the communication problems through project interventions.
Unleashing the power of agricultural data: insights from tanzania's digitalization of routine data system
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Kahamba, J. S.; Martin, R.
Across Africa, including Tanzania, numerous countries have embraced digitalization in their agricultural information systems to harness the benefits of improved efficiency and productivity. The adopted systems can be grouped into two main categories: those aiming to improve farmers’ productivity and efficiencies and those aiming to improve organizational administrative efficiencies. While the former has received significant scholarly attention, the latter has not been fully investigated. Thus, using the case of the Agricultural Routine Data System (ARDS), this paper analyzes the system’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) for effective designing of digital agricultural information systems. A survey of 30 agricultural extension agents working at ward and village levels was conducted. Additional data were collected through a documentary review of grey literature about ARDS and in-depth interviews with six key informants. It was found that ARDS is a robust system that captures essential agricultural information though it is challenged by combining information for crops and livestock. The study concludes that the adoption of ICT has great potential to increase food production and farmers’ income by optimizing agricultural production and enabling informed decision-making enhanced by quality data. To improve the performance, the study recommends training to be offered to frontline extension agents on how to collect quality data, exclude livestock information from the system and digitalize the system at the village and ward levels.