Browsing by Author "Shekiangio, Joachim Martin"

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Contribution of fertilizer management practices to poverty reduction: the case of Kilindi district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Shekiangio, Joachim Martin
A study was conducted to assess the contribution of fertilizer management practices to poverty reduction in eight villages of Kilindi District, Tanzania. The objective of the study was to assess the contribution of fertilizer management practices in enhancing food security and household income. Data were collected using both structured and non structured interviews. Field observations and secondary data supplemented the data collected using questionnaires. Purposive sampling procedures were used to obtain eight representative villages. At a village level, 30 respondents each from different households were picked at random for the study leading to a sample size of 240 respondents. The collected data were analysed using SPSS software. Results of the study indicated that only 1.3% of the farmers use inorganic fertilizers whereas 3% use organic fertilizers. Fertilizers are mainly used for maize and vegetable production. These are applied at very low application rates which can not suffice meaningful crop production. Results also indicated that the organic fertilizers used are not properly managed. Manure accumulates in open kraals and frequency of manure removal is quite low pointing to likelihood of nutrient losses. Results further indicated that crop yields are quite low as a consequence of use of poor husbandry practices notably appropriate fertilizer use leading to food insecurity and low household income. It is therefore recommended that farmers should be trained and/or sensitized on proper use and management of fertilizers. The district is endowed with plenty of animal manure of which if judiciously used can increase crop production hence reduce food insecurity and increase household income. Different training methods such as Farmers Field Schools, demonstrations, tours, workshops and seminars should be employed. Extension services should also be improved if meaningful dissemination of agricultural technologies is to be attained.