Browsing by Author "Mbwana, H.A"

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    A hidden potential of pigeon peas cultivation practices to curb household food insecurity in rural areas of eastern southern Tanzania
    (Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2025) Mbwana, H.A; Kaingo, J.
    Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) is a tropical legume with significant potential for enhancing food security and nutrition, particularly in semi-arid regions. This study assessed the impact of pigeon pea cultivation practices on household food security, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing in two villages, Mibure (Ruangwa) and Mitumbati (Nachingwea), in the Lindi region of Tanzania. The study involved 300 farming households, with data collected through household surveys focusing on crop production practices, food availability, dietary diversity, and disposable crop income. Two major models were employed: (i) the direct effects of pigeon pea cultivation methods on household wellbeing indicators (adequate household food availability, household dietary diversity, disposable crop income, and calorie and protein production) and (ii) the effects of crop income and calorie production on adequate food availability and dietary diversity. Results revealed that 72% of maize-growing smallholders also grew pigeon peas, along with other legumes like beans and cowpeas. Intercropping was the predominant cropping practice, with over 50% of households using cereal-legume intercropping, while crop rotation was less common. Intercropping pigeon peas with cereals was significantly associated with increased household food availability and dietary diversity. Households practicing intercropping achieved higher disposable crop income and produced more calories and protein, contributing to improved food security and dietary outcomes. The study concludes that pigeon pea intercropping is an effective strategy for enhancing food and nutrition security in semi-arid regions of Tanzania. The results suggest that promoting legume-based intercropping systems could improve household food availability, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing.