Department of Forest Technology and Wood Sciences

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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 We used both data published in the peer-reviewed literature and data from unpublished sources provided by various sources.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 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
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.
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.
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.
The Eastern arc mountain forests of Tanzania: Their role in biodiversity, wateresource conservation, and net contribution to atmospheric carbon.
(North Carolina State University, 2001) Pantaleo, Munishi K. T.
Mountain forests play major ecological and environmental roles. This study evaluated the roles of the Eastern Arc Mountain forests of Tanzania in conservation of biodiversity, water resources, and net contribution to atmospheric carbon. The major objectives were three-fold: (1) the classification and description of plant community composition, diversity patterns, and their environmental correlates, (2) assessment of biomass and carbon pool in the phytomass and soils, (3) assessment of rainfall interception throughfall, stemflow, streamflow, and their correlation with rainfall. Data on vegetation, topography, soils, and hydrology were collected from the Usambara and Uluguru ranges. Using cluster analyses, Non-metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMS) ordination, and indicator species analyses, five different plant communities were identified on each range. These communities were associated with two topographic and fourteen edaphic factors. Elevation was the strongest correlate of community composition in individual ranges, followed by several edaphic factors. Landform index and soil sodium concentration [Na] play major roles in separating plant communities between different mountain ranges. The proportions of rare species were high raising a conservation concern as to whether this is evidence of species’ declines or a biological characteristic. The forests have tremendous capacity for C storage both in the phytomass (517 ± 17 t ha’1 in the Usambaras and 384 ± 10 t ha’1 in the Ulugurus), and in the soil (420 ± 100 t ha’1 in the Usambaras and 290 ± 53 t ha’1 in the Ulugurus). Phytomass C was higher in mid elevation communities while high elevation communities had higher soil carbon, and total carbon. Rainfall interception was 23% in the Usambaras and 20% in the Ulugurus. Throughfall was more than 76% in both forests and stemflow was less than 2%. Streamflow was best modeled using three or more months running mean rainfall. The results suggest that plant community patterns in the Eastern Arc are associated with a complex of topographic and edaphic factors. This complex of factors is an important consideration in restoration and conservation programs. Attention to rare species is especially important. The forests havesubstantial capacity for carbon emission mitigation. The slow response in streamflow to rainfall events shows the efficiency of the forests to store water, mitigate storm water impacts by reducing runoff, delaying onset of peak flows, and ensuring constant water supplies.
Economic valuation of nontimber forest products under the changing climate in Kilombero district, Tanzania
(Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2016) Balama, C.; Augustino, S.; Mwaiteleke, D.; Lusambo, L. P.; Makonda, F. B. S.
Sustainable collection of Nontimber Forest Products (NTFPs) for trade is an appropriate measure to increase people’s adaptive capacity against adverse effects of climate change. However, information on the economic value for NTFPs for subsistence use and trade under the changing climate is inadequate, particularly in households around Iyondo Forest Reserve (IFR), in Kilombero District, Tanzania. The study identified and quantified NTFPs used for subsistence and trade, estimated its economic value, and examined factors influencing supply of NTFPs at household level. Data were collected through Focus Group Discussions, key informant interviews, questionnaire survey of 208 sample households, and spot market analysis to randomly selected NTFPs collectors, sellers, and buyers.The study identified 12 NTFPs used for subsistence and trade, which was evaluated in terms of the mean annual value per household.Themean annual value of the identifiedNTFPs ranged fromTZS 4700 to 886 600.The estimated economic value of the studiedNTFPs was TZS 51.4 billion (USD36million).The supply of NTFPs at household level was influenced by distance to the forest, change in forest management regime, seasonality, and change in rainfall pattern. NTFPs around IFR have high economic value which portrays the potential of developing them to enhance households’ adaptive capacity against climate change adverse effects.
Forest resource use conflicts as a consequence of pseudo- devolution of power: a case study of Pugu and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2009) Shabani, Zainabu
The Pugu and Kazimzumbwi forest reserves are among the 83 lowland coastal forests in Tanzania. The decentralization of these reserves can be called pseudo-devolution, because system does not allow for full participation of local government and villagers. This study intended to asses the devolution of power in historical perspective and the factors underlying it; identify types of forest resource use conflicts exist and factors underlying them; and asses existing and potential conflict resolution mechanisms. Qualitative data were analyzed using content and structural-functional analyses while quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS. For inferential statistical analysis, factors underlying forest resource use conflicts between users and regulators were quantified. The study found two types of forest resource use conflicts: between users and regulators and among users. Users and regulators conflict was reported as the major one and pseudo-devolution of power was among the major underlying factors. Perception on pseudo-devolution of power was found to have positive regression coefficient of 2.696 and significant (P=0.013) and high odd ratio of 14.813. Distance from resource base to market was also positive and significant (P=0.027). Ethnicity, education level, household size, and farm size had positive regression coefficient but not significant. The factors found to reduce forest resource use conflicts included distance from homestead to reserves which was negative and significant (P=0.017) and duration of residence which was negative but not significant (P=0.316). Furthermore the study found formal existing conflict resolution mechanisms include primary and district courts and potential formal conflict resolution mechanisms including JFMA. Informal potential conflicts resolution mechanisms include elders and religious groups. The study concludes that, forest resource use conflicts are largely a consequence of pseudo-devolution of power. Lastly, the study recommends, the need for full devolution of power, creating alternative income sources, operationalizing potential conflicts resolution mechanisms and institutional mix in management of natural resources.
Fuelwood consumption in brick making: A case of Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
(2015-11) Magembe, K. S.; Makonda, F. B. S.; Masanja, M. M
The study aimed at determination of the annual fuel wood consumption caused by brick making activities in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania. The collected and analyzed data were based on field survey and quantitative measurements. Field survey based on interviews with group leaders dealing with brick making activities as the main focus was conducted. Data were collected from brick maker’s survey as well as from some relevant secondary sources. The study revealed that almost all brick makers in the municipal used fuelwood as the major energy sources. The average annual fuelwood consumption for brick making was 8,610 m3. In order to reduce heavy dependency of fuelwood in the area, use of alternative energy sources in brick making such as rice husks, maize cobs and baggasse are recommended. The study also recommends the establishment of woodlots in all wards, establishment of agro-forestry systems and intensive afforestation and reforestation programmes to be undertaken by the municipality for more sustainable fuelwood use. Keywords: Fuelwood, consumption, brick making, Tanzania
Fungal diseases of trees in Tanzania with emphasis on the stem decay of the East African camphor tree, Ocotea usambarensis Engl.
(Agricultural University of Norway, 1996) Nsolomo, Vincent R.
This study presents the current situation and gives a background on forest disease research and knowledge in Tanzania. Some important disease epidemics are discussed and known fungi causing diseases to indigenous and exotic tree species have been tabulated to show the hosts, the pathogens and the pans of the host affected. The review on the disease situation also provides some information on the stem decay of Ocotea usambarensis, which is reported in detail under the current study. The stem decay of O. usambarensis has been studied in the Usambara and Kilimanjaro mountain rain forests and causative fungi isolated from standing trees and identified. The decay, characterized by butt rot and main stem decay, and which may attack both the heart wood and sapwood, has been diagnosed basing on the Koch’s postulates. The symptoms, signs, infection courts and the ways by which the decay is transmitted from mother trees to young regeneration are also reported. Trees of all age classes and size are susceptible to the stem decay regardless of whether they have developed heartwood or not. Also, sporophores of 14 larger fungi from the families Hymenochaetaceae, Polyporaceae, Ganodermataceae, Schizophylaceae, Corticiaceae and Xylariaceae were collected from various wood material of the tree species. 72 species of fungi were isolated from decay of standing trees, 12 of which were basidiomycetes and 60 were non-basidiomycctes. It was found that the decay is attributed to a number of fungi which infect and colonize the tree through a series of succession stages defined by the niches available in the decaying stems and by the roles of the fungi in such niches. Pioneering fungi of living sapwood were dominated by parasitic and facultative species which include Ophiostoma spp, Ceratocystis spp, Botryosphaeria ribis, Cylindrocarpon destructions, Cylindrodendrum album, Pestalotiopsis sp, Nodulisporium sp, Leptodontidium sp, some basidiomycetes and other fungi which could not be properly grouped because they had sterile mycelium among which was an important pathogenic fungus known here as ‘Sterile mycelium sp 3’. Possible pioneering fungi of the heartwood were the Alternaria sp, Paecilomyces lilacinus, Phoma sp (Coniothyriuni insigne), Penicillium spp and other unidentified conidial species. The secondary and climax fungi were dominated by basidiomycetes including Phellinus senex, and other conidial and sterile mycelium species. Phellinus senex, which has been widely reported earlier as a primary decay fungus of O. usambarensis, participates in the decay and becomes part of the decay-climax flora of the tree. However, it is not a primary decayer because it can not infect sapwood or heartwood which is un colonized by other fungi. Some selected fungi were used in pathogenicity tests and inoculated in sapwood and heartwood of healthy trees. The rate of infection of some fungi was variably affected by the moisture content and pH of the sapwood. Determination of the decay ability of some fungi was also conducted in vitro using wood blocks of O.usambarensis, and the fungi were also tested for the possession of phenoloxidase enzymes that can degrade gallic acid, tannic acid or lignin. Basidiomycetes were the most aggressive in terms of the rate and magnitude of decay but some non- basidiomycetes were also able to degrade the wood significantly. About 70% of the fungi tested possessed enzymes capable of degrading lignin which means they are white rot fungi. As most of these fungi have pH optima similar to that in the trees, this shows they function optimally in the stems and hence explains the formation of hollow stems in decay-affected trees. Factors which may affect fungal growth and their ability to cause decay in standing trees, such as temperature, pH and oxygen stress were evaluated in culture. It was found that environmental temperature and the pH in trees favour the growth of tire fungi, while oxygen stress seems to act as a factor imposing a selection pressure on fungi during succession by favouring tolerant species. Most fungi are mesophilic and the optimum temperature for most of them was within the average found in the forest environment, while their optimum pH was similar to that found in trees. It was also argued that the ability of Phellinus senex to tolerate anaerobic conditions was a major factor making it the main climax species of the decay and which later fruitify on standing trees with heartrot or butt rot. Comparing the flora of fungi attacking trees in the Usambara and Kilimanjaro forests, trees in the Usambara are infected by relatively more fungi. This is likely due to the climatic and edaphic conditions which are less optimal in the Usambara and hence predispose the trees to infection.
Gender roles in sustainable use and practices of medicinal plants in Urban Districts of Morogoro and Iringa Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 2002) Augustino, Suzana
This study was designed to assess the role played by gender in sustainable use and practices of medicinal plants, in urban districts of Morogoro and Iringa, Tanzania. Data were collected through social survey methods through interviews with herbalists (traditional healers and medicinal plant sellers) and key informants such as Forest extension officers and botanists. A list of medicinal plants given by each informant was compiled. The information gathered included local plant names, type of disease treated, parts of plant used, preparation methods, dosage and other aspects of medicinal plants including practices. The Statistical Package for Social Science Programme (SPSS) including content analysis, chi-square and logistic regression were used in data analysis. The results indicated that out of 246 and 177 medicinal plants recorded in Morogoro and Iringa urban districts respectively, only 108 and 88 were botanically identified. The recorded medicinal plants cure about 72 and 57 diseases and other complications in Morogoro and Iringa urban districts respectively. Male herbalists from the two districts prefer to use roots while female herbalists prefer to use barks. Most male and female herbalists usually harvest parts of medicinal plants outside their districts and traditionally prepare plant medicine using variety of methods like mixture of boiling and grinding. Dosages were not specific for most male and female herbalists and side effects were unknown. Significant differences were observed in the roles played by gender in sustainable use of medicinal plants. Most female than male supported much the idea of training in domestication of medicinal plants or establishment of community based woodlots and involvement in different research on medicinal plants. The medicinal plant practices were found to be gender dependent. While in Morogoro urban District men dominated the practice, in Iringa urban District women were dominant.iii dependent. While in Morogoro urban District men dominated the practice, in Iringa urban District women were dominant. From the results it is concluded that male and female herbalists arc very important people in providing primary health care to the urban societies. However, medicinal plant practices do not always depend on gender but are rather influenced much by social-economic and cultural factors that discourage women to participate fully. In order to integrate medicinal plants practices with the health care system in Tanzania it is recommended to; organize public awareness programmes to all herbalists to improve their understanding in aspects connected with medicinal plants and ensure sustainable use of the resources, sensitize most herbalists to change their altitude, start cooperating and pass their knowledge to young generations to sustain their traditional knowledge. Further studies arc recommended to domesticate the potential medicinal plants in home gardens, determine their efficacy and safe ways of administering medicinal plant.

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