Department of Forest Technology and Wood Sciences

Permanent URI for this communityhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/50

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 58

Aboveground biomass and carbon stock of Usambara tropical Rainforests in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation, 2021) Mauya, E.W.; Madundo, S
Forest Above ground biomass (AGB) and carbon stock (AGC) estimation is important for carbon budget accounting, sustainable forest management as well as for understanding the role of forest ecosystem in the climate change mitigation. In the recent decade, there has been a growing global interest on quantifying AGB and AGC in the tropical countries. However, the information on AGB and AGC at local and subnational scales in most of the tropical forests is scattered and not consolidated. In this study, we reviewed the existing information on AGB and AGC for tropical rainforests of northern Tanzania. We used both data published in the peer-reviewed literature and data from unpublished sources provided by various sources. Our results showed that, there are three types of data sources and methods used for estimation of AGB and AGC. These included, field, geographical information system and remote sensing. Of all the methods, field based method was applied to a large extent. The average reported minimum values of AGB and AGC are 177.00 Mg ha -1 and 88.5 Mg ha -1 , and the maximum average values are 872 Mg ha -1 and 436 Mg ha -1 respectively. Overall, the average values of AGB and AGC in the Usambara tropical mountain forests (UTMFs) are 351.08 Mg ha -1 and 175.54 Mg ha -1 respectively. Forest structure parameters, particularly tree sizes and number of tree stems, were the major structure parameters reported to affect the amount of AGB and AGC. To conclude, the study revealed that there is a progressive trend in the estimation of AGB and AGC in the UTMFs. However, more update and effective forest survey data and methods are needed particularly in west Usambara mountain forests block.
Applications and challenges of information and communication technology in the forest sector: a case study of Morogoro municipality, Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group, 2022) Ahmad, Mchelu Hadija; William, Mauya Ernest; Juma, Lolila Nandera; Dawood, Madundo Sami
In Tanzania there is rapid adoption of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the forest sector and other allied sciences. Many of the uses of ICT in the forest sector are relatively new or still on the horizon and majority are not documented. Despite that, studies on the application and challenges of ICT in the forest sector of Tanzania are still limited to up to date. This study was conducted in Morogoro Municipality to document the current application and challenges of ICT in the forest sector. Data on awareness, type of professional experts with ICTs based, ICTs application domain in forest, infrastructures, software used and outputs were collected from different forest institutions located in Morogoro Municipality using structured questionnaires. Descriptive statistics of the parameters were done using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) and R statistical package. The results have shown that, there is a promising trend towards applications of ICT in the forest sector, where about 75% of the respondents were aware of the ICT applications, while 25% were not. There were eight types of professionals in the forest sector with background in ICT’s based technology with higher application on data storage and analysis, documentation and forest inventory. The main challenges observed were related to the availability of infrastructures, internet connectivity and qualified personnel.
Assessment of productivity and costs of three wheeled loader: case study of Sao Hill forest plantation - Mufindi Iringa, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of agriculture, 2021) Kaniki, Edson Dennis
In recent years logging operations are either semi-mechanized or full mechanized. This has emerged due to shortage of labour in logging operations and the presence of new technology which simplifies work and increases productivity. Loading equipment such as three-wheel loaders have been used in logging operations in Tanzania but their productivity and costs are not documented. This study was done at Sao Hill Forest Plantations to determine productivity and costs of three wheel loaders used in loading operations. The study focused on determination of total time taken for the whole operation of the loader, the production rates of the loader, fuel consumption rate and unit costs of the three wheeled loader. Purposive sampling technique was used in making 244 observations. Primary data were collected by the use of snap-back time study. Secondary data were collected through interviews, office records and reading published journals and articles. The findings indicated that total average time taken for the loading operation was 1.56 minutes while total average productive time was 1.33 minutes. Production rate of the three wheeled loader was estimated to 59.71 m 3 /h when only necessary delays were considered and 43.03 m 3 /h when all delays were considered. This showed that the loader had high production rates but omission of unnecessary delays increases productivity. Fuel consumption rate was estimated to be 0.0027 litres/min which was very economical in comparisons to other loading equipment. Total cost of using the three wheeled loader was estimated to 21 153 000.00 TZS/year hence the unit cost of production was 10 922.01 TZS/m 3 when all delays were considered and 7 872.30 TZS/m 3 when only necessary delays were considered. This illustrated that unit costs of production reduces when unnecessary delays were omitted. It was concluded that the three wheeled loader has high loading production rates and reasonable unit costs of production.iii DECLARATION I, Edson Dennis Kaniki, do hereby declare to SENATE of Soko
Attitude,adoption and economic potentials of Agroforestry in Kilosa District Tanzania
(2016-03-25) Luumi, F.; Mombo, F.; Senkondo, M.; Makonda, F. B. S.
The paper aimed at describing the existing agroforestry systems and technologies, examining the level of attitudes towards agroforestry, identifying socio factors influencing agroforestry adoption and estimating costs and benefits of agroforestry in Kilosa District. Information and data on agroforestry was obtained by interviewing a random sample of 120 households based upon questionnaire. Results revealed that agroforestry systems practiced were agrosilvopastoral and agrosilvicultural arranged in mixed intercropping, boundary planting and homegardens. A substantial number of respondents had a positive attitude towards commercialization (90% resource conservation (89%) and attitude towards land productivity (82%). Farm labour force, farm size, attitude towards land productivity, commercialization and attitude towards land resource conservation significantly influenced adoption of agroforestry at P < 0.05. The selected agroforestry systems had positive Net Present Value per hectare and Benefit Cost Ratio was greater than one at discount rate of 10% meaning that the systems were economically viable. Internal Rate of Return was higher than the World Bank’s rate of 10% indicating the worth of investing in agroforestry. It is recommended that, the government and development agencies should provide education and training to farmers who are ignorant of the benefits of engaging in agroforestry f agroforestry disseminators should improve the benefits of agroforestry practice since high attitude towards agroforestry were due to the respondents’ perception that investment in agroforestry was associated with more benefits than costs. Increasing the efficiency of agroforestry through technology development, improving marketing systems and credits will improve the economic benefits from agroforestry
Balancing wood and non-wood products in Miombo Woodlands
(2007) Makonda, F. B. S.; Gillah, P. R.
In most of the sub-Saharan countries including Tanzania, Mozambique, Malawi, Zimbabwe and Zambia, more than 80% of rural people are poor and traditionally rely on existing non-wood goods and services provided by miombo. These woodlands are among the most threatened of the tropical ecosystems. There is a need of investigating the importance of miombo ecosystem, their threats and the governments concerned to ensure sustainable and equitable use of these dwindling resources. This paper gives an overview of the roles played by miombo in the provision of both wood and non-wood products and how the utilization can be balanced for sustainability. It is evident that there has been limited research on miombo productivity and the impact of management on non-timber product supplies. This needs immediate attention in order to address the demand-supply situation. Also sustainable use of trees and shrubs is an integral part of balancing variable products and uses in miombo woodlands. Conservation of miombo while raising the living standard can be enhanced through controlled harvesting, improved domestication and utilization and commercialization of trees and their products.
Bark-stripping and food habits of blue monkeys in a forest plantation on mount Meru, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1989-04) Maganga, Samwel L.S.
Bark-stripping of Cupressus lusitanica (cypress) and Pinus patula (pine) by blue monkeys (Cercopethicus mitis kibonotensis) in Meru Forest Plantations has been a problem since they were established in the early 1950s. This study was conducted in 1987 in the Sokoine University of Agriculture Training Forest, a portion of the Meru Forest Plantations, to determine the magnitude of bark-stripping in relation to the food habits of blue monkeys. The extent, intensity and effects of bark damage were assessed in compartments with trees 3 to 14 years old, and the pattern of debarking was monitored throughout the year. On the average, 79.5 % cypress and 88.7% pine trees were debarked. Blue monkeys preferred dominant cypress trees to intermediate trees. In contrast, intermediate pine trees were more damaged than dominant trees. trees were least damaged. In both species, suppressed In all types of trees, the most severe bark damage occurred at the middle and top of the tree trunks. Twisted bole was the most common defect developed by damaged trees; 34% cypress and 38% pine trees were twisted at the middle and top sections. Bark-stripping was low in the rain season and increased in the dry season peaking at 22% of trees damaged in June and July. • The food habits data were collected from the indigenous forest at two sites within the plantation. plant species were eaten by blue monkeys. A total of 38 Fruits were theiv most frequently consumed food item and averaged 76% of the monthly feeding records. Leaves were the next important food item but they were inversely related to the feeding on fruits. The other food items (flowers, shoots, petioles and bark) were similarly inversely related to the feeding on fruits. Bark stripping was negatively correlated to the feeding on fruits, and thus increased when the feeding on fruits declined. Fruits of Ficus thonninqii were the prime item in the diet of blue monkeys contributing 50 to 60% of the monthly feeding records. The amount of fruit on these trees in the area was also inversely related to extent of bark damage in the plantation. The water and carbohydrate in the bark of cypress and pine trees was determined to examine if they influenced the bark-stripping. These were poorly correlated to the monthly debarking of both tree species.
Basic density and some strength properties of melia azedarach l. and markhamia lutea (benth.) k. schum. grown in agroforestry in Bunda, Mara, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Matekere, James Peter
Basic density and some strength properties of Melia azedarach L. and Markhamia lutea (Benth.) K. Schum. grown in agroforestry in Bunda district were studied. The overall objective of this study was to assess tire quality of wood of these species in order to improve their utilization. i A survey of end uses of both species was conducted by using structured questionnaires. Tree form was determined by observation on standing trees. Five mature trees aged between 25 to 30 years with good form and free from defects were selected. Basic density was determined by using maximum moisture content method. Strength properties were measured on a Monsanto Tensiometer machine. The main findings were as follows: • Wood of Melia azedarach and Markhamia lutea is already being utilized in Bunda for furniture making and construction work. • Trees of Melia azedarach were straight up to about 7 m with sparse crown cover while those of Markhamia lutea were straight up to about 5 m from the base. • Mean basic density were found to be 436 kg/m and 430 kg/m for Melia azedarach and Markhamia lutea respectively. There was no significant difference in mean basic density between the two species (P>0.05). • There were significant differences in all studied strength properties except work to maximum load for the two species (P<0.05). i • All studied strength properties of Markhamia lutea were significantly higher by an average of about 37% compared with those of Melia azedarach except work to maximum load and cleavage strength. • Variations in basic density and studied strength properties were found between trees and within trees of the same species. Within trees of the same species variation was found in radial and axial directions. • These results suggest that it is possible to improve the wood quality of these species through among other methods selection of trees with the desired properties for further planting. • There were significant relationships between basic density and tire studied strength properties which indicate that it is possible to predict one strength property from basic density hence reduction of cost and time required for testing. There were positive significant relationships between both basic density and studied strength properties with rate of growth measured by dbh and total tree height for both species. The relationships were all significant with dbh for Melia azedarach and not significant for Markhamia lutea.
Basic density and some strength properties of pinus caribaea, pinus kesiya and pinus oocarpa grown in Katugo, Uganda
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 1998) Odokonyero, Geoffrey
Basic density variations in and six 25-y-old properties strength three Pinus and their grown species in Katugo, Uganda were investigated. Six trees in each of Pinus caribaea and Pinus oocarpa and three in Pinus kesiya were selected, felled, billeted and test samples prepared according to standard methods. 3 diameter classes, each of the three species, 3 In axial positions and 4 radial positions (3 for basic density) were sampled. Basic density was determined by water displacement method. Tests of various strength properties were done in accordance with standard procedures. The data were analyzed using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) software. Results showed: The overall mean wood properties values were as follows: Basic density was 424.33, 431.37 and 444.37 kg/m3; Modulus of rupture was 54.51, 55.31 and 60.69 M/mm2; elasticity was Modulus of 3590.51, maximum load was M/mm2; 3752.240.033, and 3325.37 0.099 and 0.101 mmM/mm3; Maximum compression strength. was 33.33, 33.33 and 34.66 1'1/mm2; Maximum surencrtc. was 9-30 and 10.37 M/mm- and Cleavage was 11.79, 12.1c and 12.43 M/mm in camoasa.,- arciii Wood strength properties values determined were within range with properties of Pines grown in Kenya and Tanzania. Research findings suggest the possibilities for expanding investigated.the use the of three species The inner wood can be used for non- structural applications and the outer for structural purposes. There were no significant differences in all wood properties between the three species. Between trees statistically variation significant in wood in properties all the were species, indicating the potential of improving wood quality through selection. Growth rate had no significant difference on wood properties. Wood properties studied decreased significantly from stump upwards the stem and increased from pith outwards in the three species studied. Strength properties of the three Pinus species were strongly correlated to basic density
Basic density and strength properties of grevillea robusta cunn. and cordia afrjcana lam. grown in agroforestry in Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Mosha, Simon John
Basic density and some strength properties of wood from Grevillea robusta Cunn. and Cordia africana Lam. grown in agroforestry in Moshi, Kilimanjaro region were studied with an overall objective of assessing the quality of these agroforestry tree species. The specific objectives were to conduct survey of end uses of the wood from G.robusta and C.ajricana grown in agroforestry, to determine tree characters such as tree form, branching habit and crown size, basic density and its variation within and between these tree species, some strength properties (Modulus of elasticity, Modulus of rupture, Work to maximum load, Total work, compression, shear and cleavage) and their variation within and between these tree species and the relationship between basic density and the strength properties for the two species. Sampling and data collected were done using standard methods according to Lavers (1969). Data analysis were done using both qualitative statistics and computer statistical analysis programme (SAS). The main results were as follows: the current end uses for these species were construction, furniture, fuelwood, shade for coffee, fodder, poles, tool handles, amenity, utensils and medicine. trees of C. africana had larger crown size and diameter at breast height (dbh) than G. robusta. Trees of G. robusta had longer and more straight bole (9.5 m) than that of the former (5.5 m). G .robusta also had slightly larger proportion of heartwood (65%) than C. africana (64%). Average basic density for G. robusta and C. africana were 0.48 g/cm3 and 0.37 •5 g/cm respectively. Basic density showed significant difference between sites, species, trees and within trees. Average strength property values for G .robusta and C. africana were; Modulus of elasticity (4988.0 N/mm2 and 4711.3 N/mm2) Modulus of rupture (47.85 N/mm2 and 47.46 N/mm2), Work to maximum load 0.07 mmN/mm3 and 0.06 mmN/mmJ, total work (0.11 mmN/mm3 and 0.10 mmN/mm3) respectively. Other strength properties were Compression (30.8 N/mm2 and 27.11 N/mm2), Shear (8.37 N/mm2 and 7.34 N/mm2) and Cleavage (16.29 N/mm and 12.35 N/mm) respectively. For all strength properties studied, there were significant differences between the two species, site, trees and within trees of the same species. G. robusta was found to be stronger than C. africana. For both species, trees from the lower altitude zone were stronger than those at higher altitude zone. It is recommended that, wood from G. robusta should be used where high strength is required. C. africana trees are suitable for shade due to their larger crown size. Denser and stronger timber should be selected from the low altitude zone.
Basic density and strength properties of Pines in Uganda
(African Journals Online (AJOL), 2008-02-21) Ishengoma, R. C.; Odokonyero, G.; Makonda, F. B.; Hamza, K. F.
Basic density and strength properties and their variations in 25 year - old Pinus caribaea, P. oocarpa and P. kesiya grown in Katugo, Uganda were investigated. Six trees for each species were selected representing three diameter classes. The trees were felled after measuring their diameter at breast height. Three disks were cut from each tree at 1.3 m, 45% and 75% of total tree height for growth ring width and basic density assessment. For strength properties determination, a central plank measuring 65 mm thick was extracted from each sample tree starting at breast height upwards. Basic density was determined using water displacement. Tests of various strength properties were done in accordance with standard procedures. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Analysis System. Results for the studied properties of Pinus caribaea, P. kesiya and P. oocarpa respectively were as follows: Basic density: 424, 431,and 444 kg/m3; Modulus of rupture: 54.51, 56.31 and 60.69 N/mm2; Modulus of elasticity: 8590,8752 and 8825 N/mm2; Work to maximum load: 0.088. 0.099 and 0.101 mmN/mm3; Maximum compression strength: 33.38, 33.83and 34.66 N/mm2; Maximum shear strength: 9.43, 9.80 and 10.37 N/mm2 and cleavage: 11.79,12.15 and 12.48 n/mm. There were no significant differences in all wood properties between the three species. Between tree variations in wood properties were statistically insignificant (p<0.05) in all the species, indicating a low potential of improving wood quality through selection. Growth rate had no significant influence on wood properties. Wood properties studied decreased significantly from stump upwards the stem and increased from pith outwards in the three species. Strength properties of the three pine species were strongly correlated to basic density with regression coefficients (R2) of above 0.88. Wood strength property values obtained in this study were within the range of pines grown in Kenya and Tanzania. These findings indicate that there are possibilities of expanding the use of these species through promotion. Butt end logs and inner wood can be used for non-structural applications and the outer wood for structural purposes.
Bio-mass inventory on the basis of terrestrial surveys and aerial photographs - Illustrated on the example of a Tanzanian Miombo Woodland.
(Georg-August-Univerisitat Gottingen, 1997-07) Malende, Yusufu H.M.B.
Biomass and volume models based on stump diameter for assessing degradation of miombo woodlands in Tanzania
(Hindawi, 2018-12-27) Manyanda, Bernardol J; Mugasha, Wilson A; Nzunda, Emannuel F.; Malimbwi, Rogers E
Models to estimate forest degradation in terms of removed volume and biomass from the extraction of wood fuel and logging using stump diameter (SD) are lacking. The common method of estimating removals is through estimating diameter at breast height (D) by applying equations relating measured D and SD. The estimated D is then used to estimate biomass and volume by means of allometric equations, which utilize D. Through this sequence of procedures, it is apparent that there is an accumulation of errors. This study developed equations for estimating volume, aboveground biomass (ABG), and belowground biomass (BGB) using SD in miombo woodlands of mainland Tanzania. Volume models were developed from 114 sample trees while AGB and BGB models were developed from 127 and 57 sample trees, respectively. Both site specific and regional models were developed. Over 70% of the variations in BGB, AGB, and volume were explained by SD. It was apparent that SD is inferior compared to measured D in explaining variation in volume and BGB but not AGB. However, the accuracy of BGB and volume estimates emanating directly from SD were far better than those obtained indirectly, i.e., volume or BGB estimates obtained from estimated D from SD, since the latter is affected by accumulation of regression equation errors. For improved accuracy of ABG, BGB, and volume estimates, we recommend the use of site specific models. However, for areas with no site specific models, application of regional models is recommended. The developed models will facilitate the addition of forest degradation as a REDD+ activity into the forthcoming FREL.
Carbon storage potential of grassland ecosystems in the eastern arc mountains: a case study of Udzungwa mountains, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) LASWAI,FRANCIS FAUSTINE
Grasslands are believed to store carbon in below and above ground. However, little is known on the actual proportion amount of carbon stored in the different carbon pools in the grassland ecosystems. This study aimed at quantifying below and above ground carbon stocks of floodplain and upland grasslands. Quadrants measuring I m 2 were established systematically along transects in the floodplain and upland grasslands. Above ground vegetation and litter were sampled in I m x I m plots and below ground roots and soils were sampled in pits of 0.5 m x 0.5 m x 0.6 m. Soil samples were taken from 0-15 cm, 15-30 cm, 30 - 45 cm and 45 - 60 cm depth. Carbon in shoots, litter and roots was determined by Loss on Ignition method. Carbon in soils was determined by Walkley Black method. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and ANOVA. The above ground carbon in upland grassland was 12.60 ± 0.50 t ha'1 and 3.09 ±0.11 t ha'1 for vegetation and litter respectively. Below ground carbon was 7.82 ± 0.57 t ha'1 for roots and 40.26 ± 1.17 t ha'1 for soils. In the floodplain grasslands above ground carbon was 33.04 ± 1.18 t ha'1 for^vegetation and 1.89 ± 0.08 t ha'1 for litter. On the other hand below ground carbon was 6.22 ± 0.25 t ha'1 and 24.63 ± 0.88 t ha'1 for roots and soil respectively. In total upland grasslands has potential to store 63.77 ± 2.35 t ha'1 of carbon while the floodplain grasslands storage was 65.78 ± 2.39 t C ha'1. With exception of roots all other pools showed a significant difference in carbon storage between floodplain and upland grasslands (P = 0.000). Both upland and floodplain grasslands have high potential for carbon storage and emission mitigation.
Climate change perceptions and adaptation strategies by forest adjacent communities in Kilombero district Tanzania
(Journal of Environment and Earth Science, 2016) Balama, Chelestino; Augustino, Suzana; Eriksen, Siri; Makonda, Fortunatus B.S.
Climate change is a global challenge to both sustainable livelihoods and economic development. Tanzania has been affected by climate change due to primary dependence on rain-fed agriculture. Despite several studies being able to explore climate change farmers’ perceptions and adaptation in Tanzania, little attention has been to humid areas specifically forest adjacent communities. This study assessed the perceptions and adaptation strategies developed by forest adjacent communities against climate change effects in Kilombero District, Tanzania. Data collection involved use of household questionnaire, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and participant observations. Results showed that the majority of communities perceive the climate to have changed as evidenced by increase in temperature and unpredictable rainfall over the past decades. This was further evidenced by frequent occurrence of floods, increased dry spells during rainy season coupled with decreased water sources, emergence of new pests and diseases, and fluctuations in fruiting and flowering seasons for plant resources in the forests. The communities’ perceptions are in line with existing empirical climate data for Kilombero meteorological station where temperature and rainfall have indicated an increasing trend with fluctuations in some years. The perceived change in climate has impacted different sectors mostly agriculture as the main livelihood source. Local communities are responding through different coping and adaptation strategies, such as crop diversification, changing cropping calendar, adopting modern farming technologies, increasing reliance on Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFPs), animal rearing and petty trading. Household size, residence period, land ownership, and household income were the socio-economic factors that influenced coping and adaptation strategies positively and significantly. In conclusion, forest adjacent communities perceive the climate to have changed as evidenced by different climatic indicators. In actual fact the area seem to have experienced climate variability and communities have responded differently by developing both coping and adaptation strategies within the farming and non-farming context. The study recommends a need for provision of weather forecast to the area for preparedness. The need for daily recording of climatic events by meteorological stations in the study area and other places in Tanzania is crucial for future confirmation of climate change. The observed potential coping and adaptation strategies need to be prioritized, strengthened and developed to ensure livelihood sustainability in future.
Comparison of dimensional stability of particle boards Manufactured in Tanzania and those imported from South Africa
(2004) Gillah, P.R; Ishengoma, R.C; Deogratias, J; Kitojo, D.H
Dimensional stability properties of particleboard from Tembo Chipboard Ltd, located in Tanga, Tanzania and of those imported from South Africa were determined and compared. A total of 64 test samples, 32 from Tembo Chipboard Ltd and 32 from South Africa chipboard cut randomly from boards were used for the study. Prior to the determination of the dimensional stability, moisture content and basic density of boards were determined in accordance to EN 322 and EN 323 standards respectively. Determination of dimensional stability was based on water soak test, according to EN 317 standard. From the results, the basic densities of particleboard from Tembo Chipboard Ltd and those from South Africa were very similar at 687 and 671 kg/m3 respectively. Similarities in basic densities allowed for comparison of other properties. Thickness swelling and water absorption values of chipboards from Tembo Chipboard Ltd and S. Africa increased with increase in water immersion period. Comparatively, boards from Tembo Chipboard Ltd had lower thickness swelling and water absorption than boards from South Africa. Furthermore, less board damage due to water immersion was demonstrated by boards from Tembo Chipboard Ltd than those from S. Africa due to their low irreversible thickness swelling. The particleboards from Tembo Chipboard Ltd are more dimensionally stable than similar boards from S. Africa.
Comparison of productivity, cost and energy expenditure when sawing on pitsawing and portable platforms In agroforestry farms in Kilimanjaro
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Rurangwa, Felix Anvers
Although future increase in timber supply in many countries is expected to come from agroforestry, the problem of on farm timber sawing, physical strain on sawyers caused by “Pitsawing” has to be addressed, to increase timber sawing productivity. This study was aimed at analyzing the productivity and energy expenditure by sawyers when using Traditional Pitsawing Platforms (PSP) and Portable Steel Log Sawing Platforms (PLSP) in agroforestry farms in Kiruweni and Nduweni villages in South Kilimanjaro. Pitsawing productivity data was obtained using time studies of the pitsawing operations on the respective platforms and data on energy expenditure was obtained through heart rate measurements using heart rate monitor. Results indicated that the site preparation production rate, using PSP, was 0.1m 3 /h and the structure assembling production rate, using PLSP, was 2.9m 3 /h. The skidding production rate, using PSP, was 3.5m 3 /h and the production rate, using PLSP, was 11.9m 3 /h. Loading productivity improved from 4.97m 3 /h, using PSP, to 7.27m 3 /h, using PLSP. Productivity of sawing work element improved from 0.055m 3 /h, using PSP, to 0.057m 3 /h, using PLSP. In sawing, Energy Expenditure (EE) was 12.69kJ/min and 12.4 kJ/min using PSP and PLSP respectively. During pit excavation/structure assembling, EE was 14.05kJ/min, using PSP, and 2.61kJ/min using PLSP. The physical workload was classified as unduly heavy for PSP and light for PLSP. For the skidding work element, the EE decreased from 5.88kJ/min, using PLSP to 4.48kJ/min, using PSP. For the loading work element, the EE was decreased from 5.20kJ/min, using PSP to 3.55kJ/min, using PLSP. The sawing cost was TAS 205 320/m 3 , using PSP and TAS165 350/m 3 , using PLSP. In conclusion, PLSP is a technically more appropriate technology for reducing EE and sawing costs as well as increasing productivity during timber harvesting in agroforestry farms.
Consumers’ preference on imported and locally made furniture in Dar es Salaam and Arusha, Tanzania
(SAGE, 2018) Kumburu, Neema P.; Kessy, John Francis
This study was designed to assess the consumer’s preference between imported and locally made furniture in Dar es Salaam and Arusha in Tanzania. Primary and secondary data for the study were collected from furniture consumers in the study area. A total of 134 consumers were surveyed. Questionnaires and documentary reviews were used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and binary logistic regression were used in the analysis of data. The result of the study revealed significant differences on the levels of consumers’ preference for furniture products. Imported furniture seems to be far preferred by consumers. It was observed that the major differences in consumers’ preference for furniture were due to quality and design. This study provides valuable implications for local small- scale manufacturers if they want to compete in the globalized market. It is, therefore, recommended that local furniture manufacturers should acquire adequate skills, technology and innovation in order to produce competitive products.
The contribution of medicinal and wild food plants to the well-being of rural communities in Lindi rural district. Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2006) Salum, Mandalo Abeid
A study was undertaken to assess the contribution of medicinal and wild food plants to the well-being of rural communities in Lindi Rural District, Tanzania. Structured and semi structured questionnaires and Participatory Rural Appraisal were used for socio-economic data collection. Systematic sampling design was used for the inventory of medicinal plants. wild food plants and other non-timber forest products. Statistical Package for Social Science Programme (SPSS), pair wise and preference ranking, content and structural methods were used in data analysis. It was found that medicinal and wild food plants contributed about 4% to household food security and 5.5% to household income. The percentage contribution of medicinal and wild food plants to the household food security and income seems to be small probably due to their low monetary value in Lindi. However, the study revealed that 79.7% of people in the study area relied on medicinal plants and SI.7% used wild plant foods. It was concluded that medicinal and wild food plants play a big role to the rural communities in Lindi Rural District but overharvesting of these plants especially the roots could endanger their sustainability in the forests. It is recommended that to ensure their sustainable supply, medicinal and wild food plants be domesticated and restrictions be formulated and enforced to minimize overharvesting of medicinal and wild food plants to enable sustainability of these plants in the forests. It is also recommended that medicinal plants be integrated with the modem health care systems as well as wild plant foods be integrated in the national food security programme. Also efforts should be made to add value to medicinal and wild food plants by developing and disseminating simple appropriate technologies for processing of these products. It was further recommended that more research be carried out on processing, marketing and domestication of these plants.
Determination of basic density and strength properties of Cordia Africana Lam. Grown in agroforestry system in Lushoto, Tanga
(Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation, 2004) Hamza, K. F.S.; Makonda, F. B. S.; Mwamakimbullah, R.; Said, A. S.
Basic density and strength properties of Cordia africana Lam. grown in agroforestry systems in Lushoto, Tanga were determined. Six sample trees were randomly selected in the same farm at Shashui village near Soni. After measuring dbh the trees were felled and total tree height recorded. Four discs were cut at breast height, 30%, 60% and 90% of the total tree height for basic density determination. A one metre long log was cut above 1.3m for strength properties determination. A central plank measuring 6cm including pith was sawn in east-west direction from each log. Standard methods were used in determination of basic density and strength properties. The main findings of this study were as follows: Basic density was 0.40g/cm3; Basic density increased moderately from the pith to a certain point after which it remained more or less constant; Basic density decreased from the butt to the top of the tree. Mean values for modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, maximum crushing stress and shear parallel to grain, compression stress and cleavage perpendicular to grain were lower than those for common hardwoods such as Ocotea usambarensis and Albizia spp. found in Lushoto. There was positive correlation between basic density and strength properties. It was recommended that, wood from C. africana grown in Lushoto and other areas with similar soil and climatic conditions could be used for light construction work and furniture making. It was further recommended that, more studies should be done in other geographical conditions where the species is grown so as to make concrete conclusions on efficient utilization of the species.
DIssemination and adoption status of agroforestry practices in Mufindi district, Iringa region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Mgeni, Habib Wallace
The current study was carried out during September 2006 to March 2007 in six villages namely Sawala, Kisada, Ikongosi, Sao-Hill, Ihowanza and Igomaa in Mufindi District, Iringa Region, Tanzania. The objective of the study was to determine the extent of dissemination and adoption of Agroforestry by the local communities and indicate the mechanism of scaling up its performance. Specifically it checked on the current status of dissemination and adoption of agroforestry practices, identified Agroforestry systems, technologies, and woody perennials preferred by farmers, determined factors influencing adoption of Agroforestry systems, technologies and find out corrective measures required for improving their adoption by the local communities. The methods used include reconnaissance, social surveys using questionnaires on the household heads and checklists of probe questions on Government and NGOs officials at the various levels from village to the Regional. Data collected was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel Program (MEP). The results showed that the adoption status of Agroforestry in the district was 65%, although most of the people adopted during the latter 16 years. The main agents that spearheaded the dissemination process included CONCERN, HIMA and various government extension agents. The most adopted agroforestry systems are Agrosilviculture and Agrosilvopasture, with Taungya, Mixed intercropping, and Homegarden being the most widely adopted technologies. Woody perennials species that people currently have shown to prefer are Eucalyptus and Pines. Insufficiend provision of germplasm, land scarcity and limited knowledge indicated to be the main factors limiting dissemination and adoption of Agroforestry in Mufindi District. Based on the results and subsequent discussion it clear that although encouraging the adoption rate of Agroforestry in the district is still low. The study therefore recommends that the Government should continue with a stepped up provisioniii of the needed germplasm and propagation materials, farmers need encouragement in establishing their own nurseries, awareness creation especially in relation to inclusion of fertility improving and food producing trees and shrubs be stepped up, further research on the currently unclarified issues and dissemination of available knowledge should be scaled up by both the government and non governmental organisations.

Browse

Browsing Department of Forest Technology and Wood Sciences by Title