Theses and Dissertations Collection

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Uptake of index-based crop insurance among smallholder farmers: the case of rice producers in Mvomero- Morogoro
(Institute of Finance Management, 2022) Mpunde, Venance Michael
In spite of agriculture being source of livelihood in Tanzania, yet the sector is faced by various production risks including climate change and variability. Since crop insurance is an important strategy against natural hazards and risks, farmers arc encouraged to adopt it in order to intensify farm productivity. Therefore, this study sought to determine drivers for uptake of index based crop insurance and inform ways of making crop insurance work for the smallholder producers. Data were collected using questionnaire from 102 rice-producing households where weather index-based insurance had been promoted. A total of 5 insurance companies were also selected for KIIs to determine their distribution models and challenges they face in implementing IBCI. BLRM was used to assess the drivers to adopt IBCI, Content and descriptive analyses measured distribution models and challenges insurers face to implement IBCI respectively. The results show that age of the household(p=0.098), farming experience with IBCI (0.000), distance to the paved road (p=0.014), and household income (0.010) had significant influence to farmers’ participation in IBCI. The content analysis from insurance companies showed that selling covers through local agents was dominant method they use in reaching their clients, quality and availability of weather data (37.5%) and capacity building to stakeholders (29.17%) were serious challenges to implement the programme. These findings therefore highlight the need to create more awareness to farmers on the principles of crop insurance and different products that exist. Similarly, developing good channels that will adequately suit the farmers needs and designing of crop insurance products basing on the need of clients, by doing so the uptake of crop insurance in Tanzania will increase.
Direct and interactional effects of three extension organisations on crop production and farmers' education in northern Tanzania
(The University of the West Indies, 1981) Kiariro, Nzinyangwa Ezekieli
The importance of having an efficient Agriculture Extension Service m predominantly Agricultural countries like Tanzania need no over emphasis. In this study cotton extension service and coffee extension service were studied in comparison with the general extension service The study in Same and Mwanga Districts in Kilimanjaro Region. included 1977/78 and 1979/80 cropping seasons because individual villages began keeping separate data in 1977/78 season. The time of actual field work was between June and November 1980. Total yields and quality in all villages were recorded for the period under study. However, the knowledge of the improved practices by the farmers was obtained by random sampling from the total villages and from each randomly picked village, 20 farmers were randomly selected. Descriptive statistics were used in analysing yield and quality changes over the study period in each extension system. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the distribution of respondents in various knowledge categories; and chi-square test was used to find out association of farmers’ knowledge with various farmers’ characteristics Cotton and coffee respondents were dealt with separately. The findings suggest that resident general extension agents perform better than their commodity counterparts. It was also noted that placing the two extension agents in the same village does not necessarily increase performance than where resident general extension worker alone exists. It was found out that knowledge of improved practices did not differ significantly among the extension systems. It was concluded that increasing the number of resident general extension agents could have improved production more than the commodity approach.
Factors affecting water productivity in farmer-managed irrigation schemes: a case of Ruanda-Majenje in Mbarali district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Kaduma, John William
Irrigation Department and other sectors have been improving irrigated agriculture to overcome problems associated with vagaries of the weather. However, despite these efforts the growing competition in water use between sectors, make the sustainability of irrigation schemes and people’s livelihoods questionable. Improving water productivity (WP) from the reported 0.22-0.32 kg/m3 for cereals in Mkoji sub-Catchment towards 2.0kg/m3 recorded in Asia and World wide at large under irrigation has been found to be the key answers. Several researches have been conducted on WP in the Mkoji sub-Catchment but none assessed factors affecting WP in farmer-managed irrigation schemes (FMIS). Therefore, the overall objective of the study was to investigate factors affecting WP in FMIS in order to suggest strategies for WP enhancement. The study was carried out in Ruanda-Majenje irrigation scheme in Majenje village, in Mbarali District in Mbeya region. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design for household data collection. Also the study involved field experiment and on farmers’ plots observation. Questionnaires, checklists and direct observations were used in data collection. Data were analyzed by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 11.5) and Statistical Analysis System (SAS) computer software in which descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and separation of means for maize). Results from the experimental plots show that there are still potentials for improving WP by improving factors affecting WP. The low WP is influenced by socioeconomic, institutional and technical factors such as lack of capital, knowledge, extension services and poor agronomic practices to mention a few. The study recommends that there is a need for the Government and other stakeholders to develop strategies that aim in improving WP since water use competition is growing within agriculture and between other sectors. (WP) from the reported 0.22-0.32 kg/m3 for cereals in Mkoji sub-Catchment towards 2.0 kg/m3 recorded in Asia and World wide at large under irrigation has been found to be the were computed. Findings indicated that WP in farmers' field is still low (0.26-0.76 kg/m3 for maize). Results from the experimental plots show that there are still potentials for improving WP by improving factors affecting WP. The low WP is influenced by socio economic, institutional and technical factors such as lack of capital, knowledge, extension services and poor agronomic practices to mention a few. The study recommends that there is a need for the Government and other stakeholders to develop strategies that aim in improving WP since water use competition is growing within agriculture and between other sectors.
Technical factors which affect cotton production in Ukerewe District
(Sokoine Univesirty of Agriculture, 1998) Ngasa, Joseph Stephen
This is a cross-sectional descriptive study of factors which affect cotton production in Ukerewe district. The study describes farmers' opinions and extension workers' opinions thought to have a bearing on cotton production. The study also identifies and describes technical constraints which confound cotton production and recommendations for solving them are made. The main findings of the study are: (1) Cotton farmers in the survey area implement those recommended practices which do not call for financial disbursements and seem to shy away from implementing those recommended practices which call for financial disbursements. (2) Some of the factors which contribute to low cotton yields were identified as lack of proper extension programme planning, a large number of clients per V.E.W., poorly trained extension workers and unattractive working conditions for the extension workers. (3) Although V.E.W.s reported that they favoured the progressive farmers' approach, in practice they adopted the frontal approach which is the current extension policy in Tanzania. (4) The farmers reported deciding freely to grow cotton because it was a means of earning money. On the other hand the extension workers claimed that their clientele were forced to grow cotton. To overcome the technical constraints it is recommended that: (a) One mechanization centre be established, to facilitate mechaniza tion of cotton farming in the survey area. facilities be made (2) A provision of credit to enable farmers to buy inputs and equipments for efficient cotton production. iii The government shouldiv introduce a subsidy on these items because their prices, influenced as they are by the current inflation, are prohibitively high for the poor farmers. (3) Both farmers and extension workers should participate in the formulation of extension programme plans. (4) Extension workers should be furnished with current cotton research findings from Ukiriguru. They should as well be afforded the opportunity for further training. Inservice training courses could serve a useful purpose in this regard.
The role of credit in the adoption of improved agricultural techniques by small scale farmers: a case study of maize growers in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1994) Lyatuu, Gabriel Godwin Idikiael Solomon
The study sought to determine the role of credit in the adoption of improved agricultural techniques by small farmers. The specific objectives were to: determine the need for credit by the farmers and the extent the need has been fulfilled; find out the sources of credit by the small farmers; distinguish the major factors limiting access to credit by small farmers, and determine how adoption of improved agricultural techniques is related to availability of credit. A questionnaire was used to collect relevant information from the respondents. Formal interviews and discussions were conducted with key informants in the villages and government offices to supplement the data obtained through interviews. The data were then analyzed statistically and obtain frequency distribution, percentage and cross-tabulations. The study established that, farmers need credit to purchase inputs and pay for additional labor required as a result of using the recommended farming techniques. Some farmers are informed of the existence of credit giving institutions; however, few have benefited from institutional credit. Informal sources, mainly friends and relatives, constitute the main source of credit for the majority of the respondents. The complicated lending procedures and demands by the banks from the farmers seeking credit have largely contributed to the limited access to credit to majority of small farmers. The results of the study also show that credit facilitates the adoption of improved farming techniques. Recommendations from the study include involvement of village authorities in the appraisal of credit requirement by the farmers and educating farmers on the procedures and conditions to follow to qualify for credit. Other recommendations include the use of simple collateral such as assessment of borrower's farming business and possessions, involving the extension services and other related institutions to ensure the use and repayment of the loans, and encouraging the establishment of rural savings and credit schemes.
Factors associated with the adoption of agricultural technologies: a case of Sasakawa global 2000 project in Dodoma rural district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1995) Machumu, Finehas Baraka Ndaro
The Sasakawa Global 2000 (SG2000) projects' strategy was successful during implementation as revealed by its ability to enable farmers to increase sorghum yields through training and demonstration as compared to the conventional methods. However, the lack of empirical evidence to the reasons why farmers in that project fail to continue adopting the SG2000 technologies prompted the need to study in detail the factors associated with the adoption and non adoption of the advocated technologies. The study was conducted in 12 villages in Dodoma Rural District in Dodoma Region. It involved 120 farmers and 20 village extension workers selected randomly from 50 villages which have been phased out of the SG2000 project. Interview schedules and field observations were used as instruments for data collection. They were supplemented by documents and records from Regional and District offices. Personal computer Sub-programmes "FREQUENCIES" and "CROSSTABS" were used to analyse the data and was conducted at Sokoine University of Agriculture. Findings show that about four out of the six technologies in the package introduced by SG2000 have been adopted (representing 67% of the adoption rate). The adopted technologies were those which demand minimum or non monetary investment while the non-adopted technologies were those which demand monetary investment. Adoption was found to be influenced by cost of inputs, labour requirements, supply of inputs, inferior tools and equipment, credit, time of phasing out, teaching methods and markets. Out of these factors cost of input influenced strongly the non-adoption and/or failure to continue using the technologies while credit availability was strong for adoption of the technologies. In order to increase adoption and continued use of introduced technologies, the following were recommended: a) Creation of sorghum market, b) improvement of ox-training programme, c) motivation of private sector to become stockists, d) improvement of credit provision and recovery, and e) use of actual bottom- up extension approach.
An assessment of public-private-partnerships in provision of agricultural extension services in Mtwara district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Kissimbo, Mary Mbazi
Over the years the provision of extension services in Tanzania was dominated by the public sector. However, effectiveness of the public sector extension has declined greatly during the past decade. In recent years several private extension providers have emerged to fill the gap created by reduced presence of public sector extension. Thus, this study was conducted to assess Public-Privatc-Partnerships (PPPs) in provision of agricultural extension services in Mtwara District, Tanzania. Specific objectives were to: identify types of parties involved in PPPs in the study area; determine different roles the identified parties play; and examine forms of PPPs partnerships. Data were collected from 154 respondents, including 120 household heads, four extension agents, 30 key informants and various documentary sources using questionnaires, researcher’s diary and checklist. Quantitative data were analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme and qualitative data were analysed using “content analysis” technique. The study identified types of PPPs involved in the provision of agricultural extension services, different roles played by identified PPPs parties and forms of PPPs partnerships. It was concluded that the role of government in PPPs is to build an environment in which plurality of extension providers can thrive. Special attention should be given to those sendee providers who have vested interest in long-term success of services they are providing. It was therefore recommended that a loose network of formal association of private service providers is deemed necessary for any interaction with the government. The study also suggested undertaking studies on forms of PPPs in provision of extension services in other parts of the country in order to enable generalisation of observations.
Socio-economic factors influencing the use of grain storage methods in morogoro region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1996) Temu, Paula Ephraim
This study was designed to investigate the socio-economic factors influencing the use of different grain storage methods in Morogoro region. The study concentrated on maize and beans, which are the grains for which proper post-harvest storage is most important in Morogoro region. The study was undertaken in Morogoro rural and Kilosa districts. Morogoro district is situated in the highlands while Kilosa is situated in the lowlands. It was hypothesized that choice of grain storage methods is independent of socio-economic factors. Data were collected using two types of structured questionnaires. One was for the farmers who grew maize and beans, the other was for the extension workers. Out of 130 households sampled, 120 were farmers while 10 were extension agents. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used for data analysis. It was found that various traditional and modern systems for grain storage are used in the region. These included; (a) Modern systems such as insecticides, (b) Traditional systems, such as storage structures and locally available materials. The differences in the storage systems between the highlands and the lowlands was in principle due to their differences in agro-ecological conditions. Visits by extension agents had a strong association with the use of either improved traditional storage structures, or insecticides. This was particularly so for the case of maize. Extension agents visits were also trongly associated with the use of modern chemicals especially for beans storage. In general, modern methods are a result of farmer advancement in techniques. However there are significant cases of improvisation i.e using traditional structures with modern chemicals. It is recommended that: For the farmers who adopt the use of insecticides, the traditional storage structures such as 'Kilindo', 'Kihenge,' etc. can be used instead of the sacks which were reported to be vulnerable to insect infestation. Further research is needed to investigate effectiveness of different local materials such as ash, tree leaves, and tobacco leaves, and also the residual effect to the consumers. Advancement of crop storage and hence household and the economies food security can be significantly improved by farmer education. Extension services have proved to be influential, and hence need to be strengthened. The focus should be in (a) educating more extension workers b) strengthening agricultural extension services - research centers linkages. c) Extension workers should closely supervise the farmers on the use of insecticides for food grain storage, (d) Extension workers should advocate specific innovations which suit specific agro-ecological conditions, (e) Economists should investigate economically more viable and compatible to the farmers' environment. which types of storage practices are economically more viable and compatible to the farmers' environment.
Assessment of private agricultural extension activities in tobacco production: the case of association of Tanzania Tobacco traders in Nzega District
(Sokoine University Agriculture, 2004) Messo, Gideon Nyakitumo
In recent times, the government has been inclined towards private agricultural extension providers to supplement public extension delivery. However, so far very little has been done to evaluate their activities and performance. This study therefore sought to assess the Association of Tanzania Tobacco Traders Limited (ATTTL) agricultural extension activities to determine the extent to which they are cost- effective and client-oriented. The specific objectives were: to study the approach employed by ATTTL in extension activities; to assess the organisational and financial sustainability of the agricultural extension activities of ATTTL; to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of the agricultural extension activities undertaken by ATTTL; to determine farmer’s attitudes on the agricultural extension activities provided by ATTTL and to assess the impact of the agricultural extension activities of ATTTL. Questionnaires were used to collect information from respondents. observations and informal discussions with villagers, farmers groups and co-operatives were used to supplement the data obtained from interviews. Formal discussions were also held with ATTTL officials and District and Regional agricultural/extension personnel to get additional information. The study noted that the approach undertaken by ATTTL is superior to that of public extension. ATTTL staff coverage, positive attitudes of extension staff, links with other organisations, and the effect on production show that the activities are efficient and effective. ATTTL has managed to sustain its agricultural extension activities but farmers groups and co-operatives have not been able to achieve such a situation. Farmers have shown positive attitudes on the reliability of inputs, on Integrated Pest Management (IPM) programme and compatibility of advice but have shown negative attitudes towards marketing and environmental conservation. ATTTL agricultural extension activities have shown positive impact on income and skills of farmers. Recommendations of the study were: private providers should use mass media to back-up the other extension methods, and training programs should be designed in such a way that all farmers are covered. Private sector should train their staff at various levels at the same time management, financial and community development skills should be taught to both leaders of villages, farmer groups and co-operatives. Enabling environment should be created for farmers to participate in environment conservation and institute law enforcement where necessary. Institutional arrangements which favour transparency, are necessary for marketing tobacco. Extension officers should devote more of their time to training farmers than doing other things like distributing inputs.
Perceptions of smallholders on the effectiveness of female and male agriculture and livestock extension field officers based on the akap sequence: a case study of Mvomero district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2007) Pangani, Martina Domician
This study was conducted in villages of Mvomcro District to investigate the perceptions of smallholders on the effectiveness of female and male Agricultural and increasing farmers' adoption and increasing farmers' productivity (AKAP) sequence of a crop (i.e. maize). The survey population comprised of farmers who grew crops and kept livestock. Data was collected in thirteen purposively selected villages. which were supervised by female agricultural and livestock extension field officers (FALEFOs) and thirteen randomly selected villages that were supervised by male agricultural and livestock extension field officers (MALEFOs). This was a cross- sectional study in which data was collected at one point in time from a selected sample of respondents. A simple random sample of 156 respondents was used and data was mainly collected using a questionnaire. The study results showed that respondents who agreed that MALEFOs gave them information based on AKAP sequence were higher compared to those supervised by FALEFOs. This implied that FALEFOs. The difference could be that FALEFOs performed other societal duties such as reproduction, production, and household chores in their homes. Also the findings showed that sex of the farmer had a significant effect on the way FALEFOs study found that female farmers who were supervised by FALEFOs had relatively higher levels of awareness, knowledge, adoption and productivity. Compared to MALEFOs were more effective in giving information to smallholders than Livestock Extension Field Officers (ALEFOs) in making farmers aware of and MALEFOs gave information to smallholders base on AKAP sequence. The technology/practices, increasing their knowledge on a tcchnqlogy/practiccs. those supervised by MALEFOs. However, the study found that MALEFOs gave information on the maize-related technologies/practices equally to both female and male respondents. This study recommends that countries' extension systems especially those in developing countries should encourage more FALEFOs since they have proven to be able to work with female farmers who mostly shoulder the agricultural responsibility of the country. Barriers, which limit FALEFOs to work in rural areas, should be removed. Also this study recommends that all lead Ministries should increase incentives to its ALEFOs.
Perception of local government leaders on decentralized agricultural extension services: the case of Mbinga district, Ruvuma region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2006) Faustine, Elmerinda
One of the goals of the Public Sector Reform Programme (PSRP) is to improve the delivery of, and access by the public, to services, including agricultural extension services. One way of achieving this is by transferring resources to District level, and by making Local Government Authorities (LGAs) responsible for provision of most public services including agricultural extension. Accordingly, under the Local government Act No 6 of 1999, the responsibility for implementing agricultural extension services has been placed with the Local Government Authorities. The idea is to be as near to the people as possible. It is assumed that the success of decentralized agricultural extension services is much more dependent, among others, on how local government leaders as the key actors perceive it. Using local government leaders of Mbinga District as a case study, perception of local government leaders on decentralized agricultural extension services was determined. The main objective of the study was to determine the perception of local leaders on decentralized agricultural extension services in Mbinga District, Ruvuma Region. The specific objectives of the study were to; assess the extent to which local government leaders are aware of their additional or new roles under decentralized agricultural extension services, determine the expectation of local government leaders with regard to the provision of agricultural extension services under a decentralized institutional set up, identify limitations faced by local government leaders in the implementation of decentralized agricultural extension services and determine opinions of local government leaders on sustainability of decentralized agricultural extension services. The survey population comprised all local government leaders of Mbinga district council having experience of at least three years in a particular administrative position. Local government leaders involved are those at district, ward and village levels (head of departments, ward councilors, ward executive officers, village executive officers and village chairpersons).
The Tanzania agricultural extension services as perceived by trainers , employers, extension officers and clientele
(West Virginia University, 1979) Ibrahim, Andrew K. K.
Tanzania mainland, formerly Tanganyika, is a vast tropical agrarian country of about 937,062 square kilometers which lies South of the Equator on the East African Coast. Major lakes are: Nyanza on the north-west, Tanganyika on the western and Nyasa on the south-west borders of the country. These along with smaller inland lakes and rivers form approximately six percent of the country. The country attained her independence on 9th December, 1961, and has 20 administrative regions which are divided into 101 administrative districts, both rural and urban. Tanzania is, however, characterized by geographical diversity in terms of topography, soils and climate, particularly rainfall, such that even within Districts marked contrasts occur in ecological conditions. Rainfall ranges from 250-1250 mm or more per annum (Fig. 1). Soils in most of the agricultural plains are of low fertility status with the exception of the volcanic mountain plains and river basins.
Factors influencing transfer and utilization of selected agricultural technologies in Ethiopia: a case study of Bolosso sore district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Yisehak Baredo Bitire
The overall objective of the study was to determine factors associated with transfer and utilization of selected agricultural technologies on enset, maize and tef in Bolosso Sore district. The specific objectives of the study were to: a) identify and describe improved agricultural technologies associated with the production of enset. maize and tef, b) identify improved agricultural technologies related to production of enset, maize and tef which were transferred to farmers in Bolosso Sore district, c) identify and describe factors which influenced transfer of technologies pertaining to enset. maize and tef crops, d) identify the extent of utilization of enset, maize, and tef technologies that were transferred to farmers in Bolosso Sore district, e) describe factors, which facilitated or impaired utilization of improved technologies related to enset, maize and tef crops, f) determine the perception of farmers’ and village extension workers’ on transfer and utilization of enset, maize and tef technologies.The design of the study was a cross-sectional survey, which involved collecting data at one point in time from a selected sample of respondents. Data was collected using an interview schedule and questionnaire supported by informal discussion, personal observation and informal interview with key informants. A simple random sample of 120 respondents was picked from a sampling frame of 2310 heads of household using table of random numbers. The study results show that technologies like land preparation, use of improved seed, proper spacing, use of fertilizers, and use of pesticides with regard to maize and tef were transferred to the study area and utilized by the respondents. However, in case of enset, no specific technology was transferred and utilized because of lack of relevant technology. The extent of utilization was higher for technologies like land preparation, use of improved seed (specially CG 4141), use of fertilizers and proper weeding for maize. However, the extent of utilization for some of maize improved seeds (BH-660, BH-140 and Pioneer), tef improved seeds (Cross-37, DZ-01-196 and DZ-01-354) and pesticides for both maize and tef was found to be lower than expected. Major reasons given by the farmers for less utilization of these technologies were: low yield, late maturity, less tolerance to diseases and pests and lodging (in case of tef). The chi-square tests for relationship of factors such as sex, income, farm size and ownership of oxen and utilization of improved technologies were found to be statistically significant indicating that those who had larger farm sizes, higher income, who owned oxen and male respondents were better positioned to utilize the technologies. Factors which facilitated utilization of these technologies were, availability of credit, performance of technologies. availability of inputs and emphasis given by extension workers. The major factors which impaired utilization of technologies were unavailability of any technology (for enset), shortage of oxen, high cost of inputs, unreliable inputs supply, poor performance of some of the technologies (tef) and shortage of land. Farmers perception on enset, maize and tef technologies were that: some technologies (e.g. maze improved seed specifically CG-4141 and chemical fertilizer like DAP and urea) were very effective in addressing their production constraints. However, majority of the farmers were discontented with high cost of inputs, incompatibility of spacing with their previous practice, unreliable input supply and low price of the produce. The assessment of extension workers' perception on the technologies indicated that transfer and utilization of some of the technologies were facilitated by good performance of some of the technologies and availability of credit. However, they indicated their Concern over lack of relevant technology for enset and high cost of inputs when compared to the purchasing power of farmers. Recommendations pertaining to the study are given in chapter five.
Utilization of ICT facilities in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024) Makundi Zungu Remmy
This study examined utilization of ICT facilities in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania. The primary objective of this study was to assess the extent to which ICT facilities are utilized by members of academic staff in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at Sokoine University of Agriculture. Specifically, the study inquired about the types of ICT facilities available at SUA for teaching and learning of agricultural sciences. The study also determined the extent of utilization of ICT facilities in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at the University. Moreover, the study described the factors that influence the use of ICT facilities in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences and lastly, the study inquired about the challenges that deter instructors from effective use of ICT facilities during teaching and learning of agricultural sciences. To achieve these objectives, a descriptive survey design incorporating a mixed approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods was employed. Data were collected using questionnaires, interview schedule and focus group discussion. The population of the study comprised of 65 instructors from the College of Agriculture (CoA), four Heads of Department and the Head of ICT services at the University. Both instructors and key informants were selected purposively and a list of instructors with a minimum of ten or more years in teaching from the CoA was used as a sampling frame. Subsequently, the collected data were entered into a computer, underwent cleaning, and were then subjected to analysis. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 20 computer software was used to analyze quantitative data and qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. Binary logistic regression was used determine factors influencing instructors’ use of ICT facilities in teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at the University. Other variables were analysed by using descriptive statistics. Firstly, the study findings revealed that, most of the ICT facilities were available at the university but were inadequate to accommodate the number of instructors present at the respective departments in the CoA. The findings also revealed that, the extent of utilization was moderate with some of the ICT facilities being over utilized while others were underutilized. Additionally, the study findings revealed that institutional factors (e.g., availability and accessibility of ICT facilities, and technical support) and personal factors (e.g., instructor positive attitude, sex, age and teaching experience) play a significant role in influencing ICT utilization at the university. Finally, the study findings disclosed that inadequacy of ICT facilities and infrastructure, slow internet connectivity, unreliable power supply, lack of in-service training, problems of handling large classes, inadequacy of ICT manpower/ technical support, and lack administrative support as challenges that deter instructors from utilizing ICTs in teaching and learning process. The current study confirms with the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) developed by Davis in 1978, as a framework to explain and predict how people adopt and use technology, particularly ICT. The study concluded that, although ICTs are very crucial in promoting teaching and learning of agricultural sciences at the University, the extent of utilization is still moderate due to various challenges such as shortage of ICT facilities and infrastructure at departmental level, unreliable power supply at the University, lack of in-service training, problems of handling large classes and inadequacy of skilled ICT manpower. Therefore, the university in keeping with its current strategic plan and ICT policy should develop a sound long term strategy that seeks to address these challenges while seeing to it that, it’s properly financed and executed. In the short term the university should carry out holistic capacity needs assessment with the intent of addressing capacity gaps at individual, organizational and systemic levels while bringing to light the numbers and type of ICT facilities required; offer professional development programs/trainings that focus on enhancing instructors' technological proficiency; and guarantee that alternative sources of power such as generators and solar panels are installed across different departments to ensure reliable power supply at the university.
Effectiveness of farmer field schools on adoption of improved maize production technologies in Chato district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Lassi, Charles Ntaki
This study sought to determine the effectiveness of Farmer Field School on the adoption of maize production technologies in Chato District. Specifically it aimed at assessing the knowledge and attitude of FFS and NFFS members regarding improved technologies; identifying socio-economic factors influencing knowledge and attitude on adoption of improved technologies to farmers and finally to determine the extent of adoption of the maize improved technologies. An interview schedule was used to collect primary data from 120 randomly selected respondents consisting of 60 FFS farmers and 60NFFS farmers. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences Computer Programme. A t- test was used to test difference in knowledge, attitude and adoption of technologies between FFS and NFFS farmers. A Multiple Linear Regression Model was used to test the influence of socio-economic variables on knowledge, attitude and adoption in the study area. The study revealed that FFS participants were more knowledgeable, having a positive attitude and mostly adopted the improved maize technologies more than NFFS participants. Land size, annual household incomes and household size significantly influenced knowledge, attitudes and adoption of improved maize production technologies at p<0.05.It is recommended that FFS for farmers training should be strengthened and used as a means to improve their farming knowledge, changing their attitudes as well as making them adopt the best farming technologies.
Assessment of effectiveness of complementary basic education in Tanzania (cobet) curriculum: a case study of Kisarawe district in coast region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2007) Selemani,Yusufu
This study on assessment of effectiveness of the COBET curriculum was conducted in five COBET centres of Kisarawe District in Coast Region. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a randomly selected sample size of 90 respondents, which involved 80 COBET learners and 10 facilitators. Data were collected using documentary review and focus groups discussions, and analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme. The results revealed that, there is a statistically significant (at p<0.05) difference in performance between COBET pupils and regular primary school pupils in national standard four examination, and school examinations for mainstreamed COBET pupils and primary school pupils. The study shows that primary school pupils performed better than COBET pupils in the national and school examinations. For cohort one pupils, 62% of the COBET pupils passed while 38% failed the national standard four examination, and cohort two children, 11% of the pupils passed while 88% failed in national standard seven examination in 2002. Also cohort two pupils. 51% of the COBET pupils passed the national standard seven examination in 2004. It was concluded that performance of COBET children was affected by several factors such as inadequate quantity and quality of facilitators/teachers; lack of school climate necessary for effectiveness of COBET curriculum; lack of learning resources and high drop-out rate which in Kisarawe District averaged at 31.4%between 2000 and 2004. The low attendance of COBET pupils was caused by factors such as walking long distances to and from the COBET centres; early pregnancies and marriages; lack of learning resources; involvement of learners in work for money and in home activities; lack of recreational facilities and low awareness of the community on the COBET programme. Recommendations pertaining to this study include having enough quantity and quality of facilitators/teachers, reviewing payment scheme for the teachers/facilitators,reviewing the COBET curriculum, improving teaching/learning resources for practical skills and providing lunch at the COBET centres.
An assessment of NGO’S contribution to agricultural extension in Moshi rural district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Lyatuu, Uraru Anamensa Mashuo
Over the past decade there has been a rapid evolution of NGOs in Tanzania, an indication that the services provided by the public sector do not satisfy the needs of the community. This study sought to investigate and assess the contribution of NGOs in providing agricultural extension in terms of logistic support, training and supervision in Moshi Rural District. The specific objectives were (a) To determine the institutional functioning of NGOs in terms of organisational structure, status and inter-relationships with government and donors, (b) To explore the operational procedures in terms of approaches, methods and media and (c) To identify the factors associated with effectiveness or lack of effectiveness of NGOs in Moshi District. The study used a cross-sectional design that employed a survey method. The survey population comprised of farmers aged 21 years and above who get extension services from KEDA and Saint Vincent de Paule. These farmers were representative of households which are immediate clients of these NGOs. Instrumentation included the design of questionnaires which were used to interview the sampled farmers and structured interview schedule administered to relevant authorities. The questionnaires were pretested in four villages. Data were collected from four selected villages in Moshi Rural District by means of questionnaires and a structured interview schedule. A random sample of 15 respondents was picked from each village using a list of farmers from the villages, thus, the sample size was 60 respondents. The findings of the study show that eighteen per cent of the respondents attended meetings organised by the NGOs while 8.4% attended meetings organised by other organisations. The study also shows that 16.6% and 6.6% of the respondents attended field days and study tours. According to the findings it is concluded that the NGOs have been efficient for the fact that they have well defined organizational structure, operational procedures and are effective in disseminating technologies to farmers. It is therefore recommended that NGOs be encouraged especially in terms of operational procedures, formation of more groups and rehabilitation of infrastructures.
Potential and limitations of contract farming for tea outgrowers of east Usambara: the case of Amani division,Muheza district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Nkalange,Rajabu Hussein
A study was conducted at Amani division in Muheza District, Tanga from 2011 to 2012 to find out the potentials and limitations of contract fanning for tea out growers of East Usambara. The survey was conducted in three wards of Amani division which were Mbomole, Amani and Zirai where villages included in this study from these wards were Kwcmwewe, Sakale, Mlesa, IBC-Msasa, Makanya, Antakae and Zirai. Therefore a sample of 120 respondents was used to accomplish this study. The respondents were interviewed by using well-structured questionnaire so as to obtain primary data. However, a checklist was used to gather additional information from key informants and Focus GroupDiscussion (FGD) where observation of farmers circumstances was done by the researcher and a research assistant. Secondary data were obtained from official reports such DALDO’s office-Muheza, Malikitanda Tea Research Institute (TRIT-Malikitanda), Sokoine National Agricultural Library (SNAL), Department ofAgricultural Education and Extension(DAEE),Ministry of Agriculture, Food Security and Cooperatives (MAFC). The analysis of data was done by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics was done to analyze data so as to find the sample means and percentages for studied variables and it was also used for drawing frequency distribution graphs and tables. The findings from the study revealed that there was potentials which exist to Amani tea out growers producing under contract farming despite ofthe limitations under the contractual arrangement. However the findings have revealed that farmers have engaged in tea out growing due to availability of market for their produce and fringe benefits they acquire when producing under contract. Therefore contract farming can provide a win win situation though wins most is not always predictable.
A study of research-extension-farmer linkage in the central zone, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Dunstan, Elina
In the past agricultural research institutes have been working almost in isolation without involving other stakeholders in agricultural development. The government has restructured the ZARDIs funds in the effort to strengthen research-extension-farmer linkages. In this respect, the present study investigated the research-extension-farmer linkage based on current institutional arrangement particularly in the central zone. Three Districts namely Mpwapwa, Chamwino and Dodoma Municipality in Dodoma Region were selected for this study. The study population consisted of research staff in the zone, extension staff and fanners from the three Districts. Structured questionnaires were used in data collection. The cuirenl arrangement has created several opportunities to strengthen linkage. These are agricultural technologies developed on farmers’ fields and availability of ZARDEF and DADPs which enable stakeholders to undertake participatory activities. Reading materials, agricultural shows and on farm experiments were found to be highly effective in linking stakeholders in the dissemination of agricultural technologies. The zone has adequate number of qualified staff at all levels. Presence of ZRELO facilitates easy flow ol agricultural information although the ZIELU is not so effective. The zone has conductec 40% of their experiments on fanners’ fields and a block farm of about 300 acres of grape vine has been established on farmers’ fields. The zone is still facing challenges in linkage activities. Lack of adequate and timely funding for research and extension was found to be a major problem that impairs effective planning for joint activities. The ZIELU was foum to be ineffective as there were no permanent office. Cost sharing for research activitie was still a problem as the Districts do not yet contribute funds for research activities. Th study recommends the following: early disbursement and increasing research an extension funds, improving ZIELU and cost sharing in research and extension activities s as to strengthen the linkage.
The academic performance of co-educational and single-sex agricultural secondary schools in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1996) Chali, Harry Mbonea Sechome
The co-education system in Tanzania has been criticized as being ineffective in up bringing students at secondary school level. The criticisms have centered on poor academic performance of co-educational schools in Certificate of Secondary Education Examination (CSEE) when compared to single-sex secondary schools. This study, therefore, sought to determine the differences in the academic performance between single-sex and co-educational secondary schools and subsequently suggesting ways of improving their academic performance. Data were collected firstly from documents of National Form Four Examination results between 1989 to 1993 from the Ministry of Education and Culture, National Examination Council of Tanzania and sampled schools. Secondly, interviews were conducted to 120 students, 60 teachers and 12 heads in twelve agricultural boarding secondary schools. Thirdly, a checklist was used to observe activities done in those schools. Data from each source were analysed by using Personal Computer facilities at Sokoine University of Agriculture. The study found that there were differences in the academic performance between seminaries, girls’ and co-educational secondary schools. Similar differences were found between boys’ only, girls’ only and co-educational secondary schools. The study,however, failed to establish significant differences in the academic performance between seminaries and boys’ only secondary schools at national level, and between girls’ only and co-educational secondary schools at sample level. Both boys and girls were found to be more committed to academic work when in single sex secondary schools. However, when mixed together in co-educational secondary schools, girls were found to be more affected academically and socially than boys. Adolescence problems, differential social and disciplinary control, sub-standard composition of teaching staff, inadequate recreational and out-of-school activities, lack of trained student counsellors and weak administration in schools were found to affect the academic performance of students in the schools. The study recommended that: (1) although co-education should be encouraged to foster education equalities in the country, single-sex secondary schools should continue in order to provide a base for academic comparisons; (2) well trained student counsellors be provided to handle adolescent problems in secondary schools; (3) guidance and counselling programmes should be introduced in schools to enhance gender-positive attitudes; (4) differential treatment between sexes in schools should be discouraged; and (5) parents and the society at large should cooperate in the maintenance of proper school discipline.

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