Theses and Dissertations Collection

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Farmer research networks project and adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst smallholder farmers in Singida District of Central Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024-05) Chilewa, Humphrey Shadrack
Despite being one of the most vital food and income crops in the world, studies show that groundnut is not widely adopted by farmers. Age, gender, education, group participation, and seed accessibility were amongst the characteristics that were reported to influence the adoption. However, the impact of these factors on the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst Singida Farmer Research Networks project beneficiaries' is not sufficiently documented. Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) is a collaborative strategy designed to aid the agro ecological intensification of smallholder farming. Although FRN was intended for use in Latin America and Africa, there is little information available on how its implementation, especially the three FRN principles, affects the uptake of agricultural technologies. This study sought to assess the factors that influence the adoption of improved groundnuts by smallholder farmers in the research networks project in Singida District. Specifically, the study (1) assessed how FRN guiding principles, that is, i) farmer participation, ii) usefulness of on-farm research, and iii) collaboration amongst players in networks, were applied in enabling farmers‘ adoption of improved groundnuts. The study, (2) determined the relationship between access to improved seeds and the adoption of improved groundnuts, and (3) analysed factors that influenced the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst the beneficiaries of FRN project. The study was guided by innovation systems, networks, and Roger's theories of innovation diffusion. A cross- sectional research design and mixed research methods were employed. Content analysis and descriptive statistics were used to assess how FRN principles were applied to influence the adoption of improved groundnuts. The binary logistic regression model (inferential statistics) was used to determine the relationship between access to improved seeds and the adoption of improved groundnuts, together with other factors that influenced the adoption of improved groundnuts. Chi-square test cross-tabulations were used to compare the socioeconomic traits of farmers. Farmers' perceptions regarding the adoption of improved groundnuts in relation to service accessibility, technological features, and the institutional environment were measured using a Likert scale. Findings show that farmers took part in establishing FRN groups, producing seeds with quality declarations, and offering farmer-to- farmer extension services. In order for farmers to observe, understand, and use the innovation, on-farm research was essential for observational and experimental study. Players work together through project meetings, farmers' field days, and mutual research, learning, and resource sharing. It is concluded that farmers engaged in on-farm research and worked together with various network participants, demonstrating that FRN principles were used to sway consumers to adopt improved groundnuts. Additionally, the study showed that socioeconomic factors such as age, sex, marital status, education, and wealth had no discernible impact on the adoption of improved groundnuts. Three criteria, including FRN group membership, seed accessibility, and technological traits including agro ecological zone adaptability, high yields, early maturation, drought tolerance, pest and disease resistance, had a substantial impact on the adoption of improved groundnuts. The majority of farmers had positive opinions of the institutional context, technological characteristics, and accessibility to services for the adoption of improved groundnuts. The report recommends for encouraging farmer participation in the initial meetings and fostering connections between farmers and more actors. Sensitization of more farmers to join groups, increased timely seed availability, and accessibility of improved groundnut cultivars with the characteristics preferable to farmers are essential in this regard.
The role of mobile phones in the development of improved chicken farming business by women in Misungwi district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2023) Iddi .H
This current study on the role of mobile phone in the development of improved chicken farming business by women was carried out in Misungwi District, Mwanza Region Tanzania from April to July, 2022. Two divisions, namely Usagara and Misungwi were selected and from each division two wards were involved, while from each ward two villages participated in the study. The study aimed at establishing the role of mobile phone in the development of improved chicken farming business by women with reference to Misungwi District. Specifically, the study intended to asses socio-economic factors influencing women’s use of mobile phones in the improved chicken farming business information, determining the accessibility of improved chicken farming business information to women improved chicken farmers through mobile phones, establishing the extent of mobile phone usage by women in communicating information on improved chicken farming business and analyzing the type of information improved chicken farmers seek through mobile phones along the value chain in the study area. A cross-sectional research design with mixed approach that is quantitative and qualitative was employed. Data were collected from 120 respondents. A questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion, Key Informant Interviews and documentary review were used to collect data. Quantitative data were analyzed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 software, while qualitative data were analyzed using content analysis. Binary logistic regression model was applied to assess socio-economic factors influencing women in using mobile phones to communicate improved chicken farming business. Firstly, the finding shows that socio-economic factors such as age, education level and occupation significantly influence the use of mobile phone in the improved chicken farming business information level. Secondly, bandwidth costs fluctuation and poor mobile phone network limited women in the accessibility of improved chicken farming business information such as availability of chicks, market and transportation in the study area.. Lastly, majority of the respondents use mobile phone to seek information from different stakeholders involved in the improved chicken farming business. Based on the findings of the study, Diffusion of innovation Theory is in conformity with this current study. However, women improved chicken farmers experienced several challenges such as market price fluctuation, poor connection between farmers and financial institutions and extension officers and veterinary officers were not working with farmers closely. The study thus recommends the District Council making campaigns on increasing the number of women engaged in farming improved chicken for business as its high agenda.. Also, the study recommends the Misungwi District authority to collaborate with mobile phones companies to increase the number of networks and advise them to have stability of bundle prices affordable to the farmers, andthe Misungwi District Council authority needs to remind the extension and veterinary officers to increase their effort in reaching and assisting the farmers than it is at the present. Furthermore, studies should be done on such areas as collaboration between farmers, Government, Public organization and other stake holders on helping women improved chicken farmers to use mobile phones in their business in order to improve their livelihood.
A study of the sustainability of the caritas dairy cattle project in Mbeya rural district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kubetta, N.E.
Poverty remains predominantly a rural phenomenon, although the number of the poor in urban areas, mainly the unemployed and those engaged in the informal sector, is growing fast. Since independence, the Government of Tanzania has had poverty eradication as one of its main goals. One of the interventions is the creation of an enabling environment for private investment in productive sectors including agriculture and livestock, mining and tourism among others. This study was done in Mbeya Rural District with the objective of assessing the sustainability of the CARITAS Dairy Cattle Project. The study used a cross-sectional design in which a sample of 112 household beneficiaries was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer program. Results from this study revealed that more than 87% had a primary education which is sufficient for livestock keeping. The community was fully involved and participated during establishment of the project and thus, it is quite aware of the project details and its importance. About 53% had attended training on dairy cattle management while the rest received knowledge and skills through their colleagues. More than 56% of the beneficiaries earned their annual income ranging from Tshs 500 000.00 to Tshs 2 500 000.00 through milk production. Considering all the above, the project showed all signs of sustainability provided that beneficiaries are empowered through market opportunities for the livestock products mainly milk, involves other development partners and ensures higher coverage of training on dairy cattle management and product marketing in the area.
Examining the institutional framework of the inputs supply chain under national agriculture input voucher scheme in selected Districts of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Magafu, Masatu Maligo
The NAIVS has been in operation since 2008/09; however there is lack of empirical evidence on the efficiency of the institutional framework. So the study was conducted to examine the institutional framework of the inputs supply chain under NAIVS in selected districts of Tanzania. Multistage sampling was employed in the selection of districts and wards; the purposive sampling technique was used in selection of villages based on accessibility. While simple random sampling was employed to select 300 respondents in all districts, a cross-sectional design survey was used and data were collected using structured questionnaire. Quantitative data were coded, entered in computer and statistically analyzed using The Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) while qualitative data were summarized and analyzed manually. Based on NAIVS implementation the study identified a number of problems that were facing farmers including delay of subsidy inputs, inadequate number of vouchers, bureaucracy as well as lack of transparency, increased rate of top up amount to more than 50% of the total cost and poor service of extension that led to majority of the farm households to have neither the neutral nor negative perception on NAIVS. From this study it is recommended that, policy makers should redesign the institutional framework to reduce bureaucracy as well as to improve transparency for the purpose of increased performance. Policy makers should support the government to increase the budget on subsidy to increase number of vouchers and to harmonize the time of input distribution. The MAFC should improve working environment to extension staff as well as extension services.
The extent to which extension services address concerns of women farmers on household food security in Mvomero District
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 2015) Lyimo, Nora
This study sought to investigate the extent to which extension services address concerns of women farmers in households’ food security in Mvomero District, Morogoro, Tanzania. Like in many parts of the world, women in Tanzania play important role as producers of food and caretakers of household. Women’s roles arc not limited to production as they also work in animal husbandry, although they usually tend small animals for subsistence, and undertake most of the household tasks. Poor access to agricultural extension services is one of the significant factors which affect the agricultural productivity of women farmers. In most cases, agricultural extension services overlook the role of women in food production and often focus on commercial production rather than subsistence crops which are the main concern of women farmers as they contribute to household food security. The study therefore determined to investigate the extent to which extension services address concerns of women farmers in households’ food security. The sample size of the study consisted of 100 women farmers and 10 extension workers. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant information from the women farmers and extension workers respectively. In addition, field observation was used to supplement the interviews. The data collected was analyzed using a Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer software. The findings of this research revealed that agricultural extension services do not address the concern of women farmers on household food security in Mvomero District. Furthermore, the study revealed that government extension services do not address gender issues which could in turn promote women farmers to have opportunity of benefiting from agricultural extension services. This study therefore recommends that the government should identify and address food and nutrition concerns of women farmers and tailor solutions towards these concerns. In addition, extension services should promote effective technology towards household food security. For these recommendation to be well implemented, agricultural training curricula should be redesigned to be gender sensitive which will include women’s concerns and responsibilities, which will ensure that extension service extension service reach women farmer.
A study of gender roles in the cashew nut value chain in Mkuranga district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Rwiza Veronica K.
The main objective of the study was to assess gender roles in the cashew nut value chain in Mkuranga. Data were collected along the cashew nut value chain nodes, including 80 producers (farmers), 10 processors, and 10 local traders from Kisutu and Kariakoo markets in Dar es Salaam. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the cashew nut value chain actors. Both quantitative and qualitative analysis was applied. The SPSS statistical software was used for data analysis. The results show that the key actors of cashew nut value chain include input suppliers, producers (farmers), processors, local traders and consumers who play different roles in cashew nut value chain. The study also found that cashew nut is constrained by production, processing, and marketing factors despite having a lot of opportunities at urban, regional and international markets. The roles assigned to men alone in cashew nut value chain were mainly associated with quality control, bargaining and decision making in all cashew nut value chain nodes, selling of raw nuts, selling the processed kernel, which eventually allow men to control income earned in different cashew nut value chain nodes. Hence, it lowers women’s motivation in cashew nut production and involvement in cashew nut value chain leading to lower women cashew nut production potential. The study documented limited frequency of visits of extension agents and lack of credit services to processors, it also documented cultural gender patterns that exist for access to and control over resources available in the cashew nut value chain and unequal income distribution among men and women along the cashew nut value chain nodes. The study recommends that gender equality is vital for cashew nut value chain improvement and calls for efforts from all development stakeholders in cashew nut value chain to focus on gender mainstreaming.
Women’s participation in income generating activities : the case of women groups in Mbarali District
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Luwondo, Elice Nehemia
The main objective of the study was to assess women’s participation in income generating activities (IGAs) in Mbarali District, Tanzania. Data were collected using various methods including interviews and focus group discussions. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed in analyzing the obtained data on income generating activities. Specifically the research focused on: types of IGAs in the District, level of women’s participation in IGAs and factors influencing women’s participation in IGAs. The study further assessed social and institutional challenges facing women participating in groups meant for IGAs. Cross-sectional research design was employed. The findings show that women in IGAs groups usually sold agricultural products, namely rice, maize, beans vegetables and fruits. Levels of women participation in IGAs groups were significantly influenced by the amount of fee contributed and number of meetings attended per year. The study further found that the motive behind women engagement in IGAs groups were: education for children, expansion of enterprises, and meeting of household necessities, future savings and renovation of houses. Moreover, social and institutional challenges identified included: inadequate credit sources and trainings on entrepreneurship. The study recommends government institutions to increase and maintain good policies on women groups training, and make sure that money lenders reduce interest rates and extend grace period to improve women participation. On the other hand, women group members should use the loans for the purpose applied.
Analysis of economic efficiency of keeping dairy cattle in Babati urban in Manyara region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University Of Agriculture, 2012) Anthony Daniel Luther
In many urban parts of Tanzania, there is lack of understanding of economic efficiency of keeping dairy cattle. To achieve the economic efficiency in the urban context, dairy cattle keepers, planners and administrators need to be adequately informed and educated about the cost-effective allocation of resources. This study investigated the economic efficiency of keeping daily cattle. Specifically, the study examined socio-economic factors that influence the number of dairy cattle to keep. Then analyze economic efficiency of urban dairy cattle units in different urban density areas. A cross-sectional research design was used involving a random . sample of 129 respondents. Data was analyzed by using descriptive statistics. multiple linear regression and Benefit-Cost Ratio analytical techniques. The findings revealed that, dairy cattle kept in BU were influenced by a combination of factors including the socio-economic (age, marital status, education, income, food. employment, land, finances, markets), cultural (status quo, inheritance, milk preference), psycho-social (curiosity of being, casual labour, savings, informal motivating, technical support), environmental (browses, forages, open spaces, weather for crop farming, farm and agro-processing residues). Yet, institutional ■ factors included, technical services, policies, support institutions and provision of social services. Incomes earned were influenced by number of milking cows, lactation period, milk price and management practices. With good dairy cattle management, the high density areas produced more milk and received more annual revenues than in the medium- and low- density areas. The BCR showed that, dairy cattle keepers in BU should economically keep two, four and six dairy cows in high- , medium- and low- density areas respectively. However, the Babati Urban Authorities should support the urban dairy cattle keeping promoting the keepers' livelihoods in the council.
A study of the factors influencing offtake and marketing of milk and milk products around Dodoma town
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1993) Araudoba Chigunje Nicanory Harun
This work was carried out in Dodoma Urban district to study the milk production situation and the existing milk utilization options in the areas surrounding Dodoma town in central Tanzania. The study was carried out by the use of a questionnaire, observations and direct recording. Fifty producer households and 61 non - producer households were interviewed. In addition, a total of 20 batches of milk produced by 20 households were evaluated for fat recovery efficiency using traditional churning methods. The results showed that there were on average 33 head of cattle per household. Cattle demography composed of 46% cows, of which 21 % were in milk; 15 % heifers, 21% males and 24 % calves. The calving rate was less than 50%. The lactation length was on average 9.72 ± 2.34 months with a coefficient of variation of 24%. were 17.6% and 3.8% Mortality rates for calves and adult cattle respectively. On average 70 % of the cows produced milk in the range of 0.25 - 0.50 1 of milk per day, while the rest produced above 0.50 to 2.00 1 per day. Watering of animals was done once per day in 94 % of the herds and for the rest it was done twice per day. Grazing time was on average 7.38h for herds that grazed continuously during the day and 6.48h for herds that had partial rest in kraals during the day. Producer households utilized 43.5 X, 32.0 X and 23.4X of the consumption milk and for sales consumers obtained direct processing, household Non respectively. milk through purchases. producer of the 61 non-producer households, 57 % obtained milk within the village, 28.6 % between 2 and 10 km and 14 % from more than 10 km. Consuming households living far away from the producers were supplied with milk through bicycle-boys as intermediaries. Milk price which ranged between TSh.26.60 and TSh.120.00 per litre of milk was positively correlated (r = 0.68 ) to distance from the source. For producer households, the amount of milk sold was significantly dependent (P< milk 0.001) on total production per household per day. Household consumption and household processing decreased the amount of milk sold significantly (P<0.001). Family size was positively and significantly (P< 0.05) correlated to herd size, milk output and processing with daily coefficients of correlations of 0.69, 0.66 and 0.66 respectively. Only fermented milk, butter and ghee were found to be produced with buttermilk as a by - product in the fat recovery process. The capacity of gourds that were used in churning sour milk ranged between 4.5 to 28.0 1 while the average volume of milk churned was 3.6 1 (range 7.5 1) representing a churn capacity fill of 31 average (range 1 .3 to x on 6.8 to 62.5 X). The sour milk churned had a pH range of 3 to 5 and was churned at an average temperature of 26 :C. Churning time averaged 28.8 minutes (range 10 to 50 minutes). Overall efficiency of fat recovery using traditional churning methods ranged between 57.5 % and 85 % It is concluded management systems, coefficients with an average of 71.6 % that the production levels and milk marketing and milk processing found in this study are similar to those reported elsewhere for traditional agro-pastoral systems in Africa. Recommendations that could bring improvements in all the aspects studied are given about
Gender dimensions on agricultural input voucher system in Songea district
(Sokoine University of Agriulture, 2014) Wilson, Monica, L
The study examined the gender dimensions on agricultural input voucher system in Songea District The main objective of the study were to establish the effect of agricultural input voucher system (TVS) on gender dimensions of agricultural input subsidy in Songea District The study used a cross-sectional design and data were collected using a questionnaire and key informant interviews. The study population comprised of farm households of Songea District The sampling frame consisted of smallholder fanners who were growing maize for more than two seasons prior to data collection. A simple random sample of 120 respondents were picked using a table of random numbers from four villages that were randomly selected from a list of potential maize growing divisions in Songea District Furthermore, the research findings showed that the proportion of fanners using agricultural input voucher system had declined after the inception of input voucher system. The findings also showed that the low purchasing power, unavailability of inputs on time and lack of credit were the main factors limiting accessibility of inputs to farmers. Farmers and extension workers perceived the agricultural input voucher system as being better compared to its performance before the inception of voucher system due to the following reasons (i) supply of inputs was reliable (ii) the farmers are getting inputs at subsidized prices (iii) quantities of inputs supplied at a time formally were inadequate (iv) input supplies has been increased (v) inputs are accessible to farmers throughout the season. Recommendations pertaining to this study are presented in chapter five.
Assessment of on-farm and off-farm income generating activities in Kisarawe district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Washa, Florence Lameck
This study was designed to assess on-farm and off-farm income generating activities in Kisarawe District.The study was conducted in five villages of Sungwi Division namely Kazimzumbwi, Sungwi, Kisarawe, Kifuru and Visegese. It involved 101 randomly selected farmers. The general objective of the study was to assess income-generating activities. The specific objectives of the study were, (a) to identify the major on-farm and off-farm income sources at household level, (b) to identify the most important sources of income at household level and, (c) to delineate the main factors on income generation for identified sources. The study used a cross-sectional design that employed the survey method. The survey population comprised of smallholder farmers in five villages of Sungwi Division. Data were collected by using structured questionnaire. A random sample of 101 respondents was picked using a table of random numbers from the sampling frame that was developed. Field observations supplemented the questionnaire. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to analyse the data. Frequencies and percentages were used to present the results. The findings of the study show that the major on-farm income sources are cassava, cashewnut, orange, paddy and potato production. Major off-farm income sources were carpentry work, petty business and charcoal selling. But of the two income sources, most farmers depended on more on-farm activities. Off-farm sources have low contribution to income in the District. The most important income sources were obtained from on- farm activities namely crop (cassava and cashewnut) and local chicken production. However, income generation was affected by lack of market information, vermine, lack of market, lack of credit, unreliable rainfall, high cost of inputs, pests andiii diseases. It was observed from this study that the District is only 28 kilometers from Dar es salaam, which facilitates easy transportation of produce to the main market (Kariakoo), and from town to the District. Being near the forest, raw materials for off-farm activities are obtained easily. Carpentry and charcoal business draws raw materials from the forest. About 52.5% of the respondents kept records for off-farm income generating activities. The study, among other things, recommends that Government and NGOs should mobilize the formation of farmers* groups to facilitate access to credit. The Ministry of Cooperatives and Marketing should provide market information to farmers through their associations on what to produce for both local and export markets. Well articulated official policies and incentives for the off-farm sector should be developed. Planners and policy-makers should recognize the important positive implication of improving smallholder farmers economic situation, and the need to support economic activities in the overall village development plans. There is a need for the government and Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs) to provide more technical and financial support to the farmers to undertake and augment income generating enterprises, such as simple technologies on processing and preservation of fruits and vegetables.
Participation of smallholder farmers in agricultural development micro-projects: a case study of DADPs projects in Kwimba district Mwanza region.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Mwita, Philemon Maige
Smallholder farmers’ participation in agricultural development micro-projects is viewed as a process by which individuals are involved in identification, planning, implementing. monitoring and evaluation. It is also a process of social development in which smallholder farmers, as subjects in their own environment, seek out ways to meet their collective needs and expectations to overcome their common problems. This study was conducted to assess participation of smallholder farmers in agricultural development micro-projects under District Agricultural Development Plan (DADPs). Data were collected by interviewing respondents using interview schedule as the main tool. Descriptive and regression analyses were employed to determine factors influencing participation. Findings revealed that agricultural development micro-projects which farmers participated included cattle dip, charco-dam and improvement of local chickens and were supported by DADPs funds. Age, education level and occupation influenced participation of smallholder farmers and were found to be statistically significant at p < 0.05. However, sex and farm size of the respondents did not significantly influence participation of smallholder farmers. It is concluded that participation of smallholder farmers in agricultural development micro-projects should not be limited to contributions that farmers offer, but should aim at empowering smallholder farmers to take control of the development process. It is therefore recommended that smallholder farmers should play an active role in the identification, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation processes which implies increasing level of participation and hence empowering them to take control of the micro-project
Acquisition of land in rural areas of Morogoro district of Tanzania: policy and practice
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Martin, Respikius
This study aimed at assessing the implementation of land policy al the village level with specific attention to the process of land acquisition through the village government. The study had three specific objectives which are: (1) to assess the rural communities' awareness of the national land policy and the village land Act No. 5 of 1999: (2) to examine the actual processes of acquiring land through the village government in rural areas and (3) to analyze constraints facing rural people to acquire land through the village government. A cross- section survey method was employed whereby two wards were selected purposively and from each ward, two villages were selected randomly. A total of 86 respondents were interviewed while other data was solicited through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. SPSS computer program version 12 was used to analyze quantitative information while qualitative information was analyzed using the content analysis technique. The findings revealed that, the awareness of land policy is low among respondents. Majority of the respondents reported about having heard about the policy but were not familiar with key aspects of the policy. It was also revealed by the study that the process involved in acquiring village land is not as per land policy guidelines. Furthermore, lack of transparency and bureaucracy in land allocation process are the major limitations for rural people to acquire land through the village government. From the findings it is concluded that, at the village level, implementation of land policy is not effective. For the implementation to be effective the study recommends empowering rural people through access to information and capacity building for local institutions which oversee implementation process of land policy.
Socio-economic factors influencing farmers participation in agricultural marketing cooperative societies: a case study of Njombe district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Mgina, Fidea Luhwano
The study on factors influencing farmers participation in Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies was carried out in Njombe District. The interest in this study has been prompted by the recognition that Agricultural Marketing Cooperative Societies (AMCOS) are organizations that can help poor farmers to raise their economic status, but the extent to which they join and participate in cooperative activities is very low. Hence the general objective was to find out what factors influence farmers participation in AMCOS. All farmers who are members and non-members in Njombe District were taken as the population of the study. Four societies were randomly selected to be included in the study. A total of 120 respondents, 60 members and 60 non-members were selected for the study. Data were collected through questionnaire and review of societies records. Data were then analyzed by descriptive statistics and test of independence (Chi-square) was used. The results of the study show that, farmers join societies and continue to be members if they can get the services, which are better than what they can get from other sources. This study found that there was no relationship between members participation in AMCOS and formal education, marital status, land distribution, and land acquisition. On the other hand, cooperative member education, economic activity, cash crops, markets, prices, and membership fee have influence to members participation in AMCOS. Lack of members education and poor services offered to members by AMCOS were cited as some of the problems hindering members’ participation. It is recommended that AMCOS should improve services offered to members. Societies and the government should emphasize cooperative education to the whole society. Likewise societies should find ways of building their capital through contributions, which will be used to buy crops from farmers so as to compete with private traders who pay cash.
Assessment of practices that urban dwellers do for environmental management in Kinondoni municipality
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Iddi, Sunday David
This study was conducted in Kinondoni Municipal Council in Dar es Salaam region. Tanzania. The main objective of the study was to investigate the environmental management practices of the urban dwellers in their residential areas. A simple random sampling procedure was employed to obtain a sample of 85 households from two divisions namely: Kinondoni and Magomeni. Data were collected through personal observations. administration of structured questionnaire and key informant interview. The collected data were coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer program. Both quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis were employed. It was revealed that about 93% of the residents in Kinondoni Municipality involved in environmental management practices. The linear regression results showed that domestic waste collection practice and cleaning the surroundings were statistically significance (p<0.05). This implies that these were the major environmental management practices of the urban dwellers in their residential areas. The study also found out that social, economical, political and cultural factors such as among others income levels, education levels, municipal guidelines, bylaws, and plot sizes influenced urban dwellers' participation in residential environmental management activities. The study concludes that majority of the residents participated differently in residential environmental management activities due to differences in their socio-economic, cultural and political orientations. The study recommends that the central government through local government authorities should lay down proper policy mechanisms for promoting dwellers’ participation in environmental management at the residential areas. In addition, municipal authorities should ensure that urban dwellers in residential areas are provided with supporting environmental management infrastructures such as tap water and better drainage systems, which will enable them to participate fully in the environmental management activities.
Conflicts in the Evangelical Lutheran church in Tanzania. the case study of Meru diocese, Arusha, Tanzania.
(2007) Mmbaga, Stanley Kajiru
Conflicts have been happening since God’s creation (RSV, 1978). A number of factors contribute to conflicts and some take a long time before they are solved, yet leave permanent scars or destructions, others are not solved or worked on, and the society talks about them like folk stories (Mndcme A, Personal communication, 2006). Among the factors contributing to these conflicts include; selfishness, money, fame and jealousness (Ayo M, Personal communication, 2006). Selfishness, which also involves money, to a great extent is what has lead to the problems many of the Evangelical Lutheran Churches (ELCT) in Tanzania are lacing. The main purpose of this study was to assess the causes and effects of conflicts in the ELCT. The objectives of the study were, first to assess socio-economic factors leading Christians into conflicts, and secondly, to investigate conilict management mechanisms. Data for the study were collected using questionnaire survey. Questionnaire survey was done in the Parishes of Meru Diocese. Data were coded, analyzed and verified. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze quantitative data. Findings of the study suggest that selfishness; greed, misuse of church funds and the lack of transparency arc major causes of conflicts. The main impact has been the creation of a new diocese, destruction of property, and loss of life. The results of this study provide some suggestions to the church leaders to be cooperative, honest, transparent and spiritually dynamic. It also provides appropriate use of the word of God in times of misunderstandings and chaos on church affairs. The study also suggests leaders to be transparent and to share information with believers all the time, especially during misunderstandings. The study further suggests that when problems occur church leaders should resolve them as soon enough to reduce their effects. Conflicts can be solved if strategies are laid down and involving equally all parties in the conflict.
The role of small scale farming as a livelihood strategy among the Maasai pastoralist community in Ngorongoro district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Lekeni, James Orongai
This study was undertaken to explore the role of small scale farming as a livelihood strategy among the Maasai pastoralist community. The study was conducted in four villages, two villages from each of the following wards namely; Esoit Sambu and Olgosorok in Loliondo Division in Ngorongoro District. The sample involved 100 respondents and two Extension Officers from each ward who were responsible for the sampled villages. The specific objectives of the study were; to find out how small-scale farming addresses food insecurity problems among the Maasai, to determine the contribution of small-scale farming as a source of income in the Maasai household, to determine if small scale farming plays a role in increasing of Maasai herd size per household, and to identify the contribution of small-scale farming to the proper land utilization and environmental management. Data were collected using structured questionnaire with open ended and close ended questions. Personal observation and secondary data supplemented the questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis. The results revealed that 72.7% of the respondents depend on small scale farming as a livelihood strategy. It was found that small scale farming among the Maasai has contribution to food security, generating income, providing local employment as well as making the Maasai to lead a more sedentary lifestyle. Despite the fact that small scale farming is practised in many areas of the Maasai land, there are some constraints that are hampering Maasai farmers. Examples were lack of improved tools, lack of cash to buy improved seeds, soil exhaustion, pest and diseases, lack of farming skills as well as formal education. Geographical locations of many of the Maasai villages hinder the Ward Extension Officers from visiting all the pastoralist farmers. Lack of credit facilities and reliable market where the pastoralist farmers can sell crops were also identified as obstacles. Recommendations from the study include; providing more training on farming rather than on livestock keeping, giving them at least an exposure outside of their areas to
Abundance and diversity of wild mammals along a hydrologic gradient in the Usangu wetlands, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kicheleri, Rose Peter
This study was conducted in the Eastern Usangu wetland in Mbcya and Iringa regions to examine the composition, abundance and diversity of mammals along a hydrological gradient. Data were collected in two seasons using distance sampling method along transects using a GPS to locate positions. Kruskal-Wallis, Pearson’s correlation and t-tests were employed to test the association of distance and number of animals observed along the gradient. Diversity of mammals along the gradient was determined by a number of indices using PRIMER 5.0 software. The study revealed that animal sightings decreased with distances from the edge of wetland though not significant different along the gradient. Also, flight distance of observed mammals was high indicating higher degree of poaching, and probably disturbances. Human activities such as abandoned farms, demolished houses and fresh livestock dung. were rampant in the wetlands. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of observed mammals in the two seasons, where species richness and abundance were higher in the late dry season. These results indicate that wetlands are important refuge areas for mammals as both abundance and diversity decreased with distance from the edge of the wetland. This study recommends a continuous monitoring of birds and mammals populations such as topi to help in determining the changes in abundance and diversity over time in Usangu wetlands as a result of intervention from anthropogenic disturbances.
Economic potential of biodiesel production: a case of small scale farmers in Meru and Monduli districts in Arusha Region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Dahaye, Boay
Tanzania is among the countries which depend entirely on imports for their crude oil requirements. This dependence on imported oil requires a lot of foreign currency. This dependence on imported crude oil necessitates looking for alternative sources of energy. The present study aims to assess the economic potential of biodiesel production among small scale farmers. The study was conducted in Arusha region, in northern Tanzania. Two Districts namely: Meru and Monduli were purposely selected basing on jatropha production in these areas. A cross sectional survey was conducted to collect primary data from 120 households. Secondary data were secured from Meru and Monduli Districts, SNAL and internet sources. Descriptive and quantitative analytical techniques were used. The findings show that the profit accrued from Jatropha production was the smallest compared to other crops in the study area. Black bean has the largest margin, followed by coffee, maize, beans, banana, and lastly Jatropha. Cattle contribute 78% while 9.1% from goats and sheep and 3.8% from chicken to the household income. The factors such as extension services and price influence profitability of Jatropha production and were statistically significant (PO.Ol). The smallest of costs of producing biodiesel by using Jatropha as a feedstock is TZS 1469 to be competitive with landed oil price of TZS 1120 per litre. The current landed oil prices of around TZS 1120 a litre requires biodiesel production costs to be around TZS 1469 a litre for the production of biodiesel to be profitable in the country. This study recommends Jatropha production on contour and fences.
Governance in the implementation of TASAF community sub Projects: a case of Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Jesse, Agela
The study of Governance in the implementation of TASAF community sub projects in Tanzania was carried out in Morogoro Municipality in Morogoro Region. The interest of this study was encouraged by the recognition that good governance and development reinforce each other, hence in any development activity including TASAF community sub projects; participation, transparency, consensus oriented, rule of law, accountability, effectiveness and efficiency, equitable and inclusiveness and responsiveness as features of good governance are needed to ensure proper implementation and sustainability of the given community development activity. However, governance has come under severe pressure of creeping corruption, poor accountability and inefficient legal system in public services. Hence it was necessary to carry out this study under Morogoro condition. The study examined ways of creating awareness and sensitization on community sub projects, the degree of community participation in identifying and setting priorities of community sub projects, equal representation in monitoring and evaluation of community sub projects, factors that hinder the implementation of community sub projects and perception of community members towards community sub projects. Structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant information from 120 respondents. A checklist was also utilized to collect information from key informants. The data were then analysed statistically to obtain frequency distribution and percentages. Generally this study revealed that governance in the implementation of TASAF community sub project is poor due to lack of transparency, poor accountability, poor participation of community members in setting priorities and individualization. It is recommended that transparency and accountability, consensus orientation and participation in setting priorities, efficiency and effectiveness should be emphasised. Moreover, community sub projects should not be taken as a tool of getting votes but as a tool that helps to improve the livelihoods of the community members by being handled by the community members themselves.

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