Theses and Dissertations Collection

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Factors influencing the utilization of animal traction technology: the case of Sasakawa global 2000 in ufipa plateau Rukwa region Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2000) Kipaka, Jelle Msenga
Smallholder farming is the important sector of agricultural production in Tanzania. The economic contribution from smallholder farmers remains highly significant for the development of the national economy. About 80% of smallholder farmers in Tanzania use human and animal traction technology in the production of their food and meeting income needs. Despite animal traction technology being a viable option for increasing land and labour productivity, its utilization among smallholder farmers has remained low. With particular reference to the SG 2000 agricultural project in the Ufipa Plateau of Rukwa, Tanzania, the study was conducted to determine factors influencing the utilization of animal traction technology among smallholder farmers in purposively selected villages. A cross-sectional design that employees survey methods was used for this study. A simple random sample of ninety eight respondents was picked with the aid of the table of random numbers. Data was collected using structured interview schedules during the months of March to June, 1999. Data were analysed using a Statistical Package for Social Sciences Personal Computer (SPSS-PC). To determine the extent and the factors influencing utilization of animal traction technology, descriptive and inferential statistics (the frequencies and chi-square test for significance) were employed. The findings from the analysis show that the utilization of animal traction technology in the primary farm operations and for transportation among the SG 2000 participants and non-participants were high (over 90 percent) than in the secondary farm operations. However, utilization levels were slightly higher among the SG 2000 participants than non-participants. On average, SG 2000 participants farmers had high utilization levels of animal traction technology in the secondary farm operations than non-participants. This was due to the fact that the respondents participating in the SG 2000 had large farms, received training on animal traction technology and had more access to credits than non-participants. The major factors identified as influencing the utilization of animal traction technology in the secondary farm operations were gender, participation in the SG 2000 animal traction technology training programme, type of crops grown, labour availability, use of fertilizers and accessibility to extension services. The study concludes by saying that there is a need for a more diversified utilization of animal traction technology to ensure maximum utilization of the technology in order to enhance labour use efficiency and to increase crop productivity. Recommendations for improved utilization of animal traction technology include careful targeting of training to specific groups of smallholder farmers in equal proportion of both men and women, expansion of the existing animal traction credit in the study area and elsewhere and training of both adopters and non-adopters of the technology for more efficient and diversified utilization of animal traction technology.
The role of agricultural extension in improving vegetable production for the new market in Meru district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Mrosso, Secilia Epiphan
Awareness and skills that address the needs of improving production practices that incorporate Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and good manufacturing practices (GMP) arc essential to help producers ensure the safety of their produce and it is through agricultural extension this will be made possible. To diagnose whether this is done, a study on roles of agricultural extension in improving vegetable production for the new market in Meru District, Arusha region was conducted. The specific objectives of the study were to determine perception of vegetable producers towards different agricultural extension services in the study area, to examine vegetable producers’ agricultural extension needs in the study area and to examine the types of extension services offered to vegetable producers in the study area where a cross-sectional study design was employed. The study utilized a structured questionnaire used to interview 120 vegetable producing farmers in different parts of the district on the extension services they were provided with at different times of vegetable production. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used to analyze data where frequencies and percentages were calculated. Also cross tabulation was used to examine the relationship between variables where Pearson Chi square was used. Results of the study indicated that, very few farmers got extension services during preparation to production, production and during marketing of vegetables respectively that is 10%, 37.5% and 5%. Also it was observed that the main reason given for not getting extension services were lack of extension agents (60%). Also, only 25% of respondents were members of farmers’ groups. As a result, only 40% farmers managed to meet vegetable market standards. Most of the interviewed farmers were married (90%) with primary school education (62.5%). It was observed that extension services at different times of production had a positive contribution to the amount of vegetables produced. Therefore, efforts should be made to make sure that every village should have extension agents with all supportive logistics such as transport facilities and housing to serve farmers.
Role of informal agricultural information dissemination networks in poverty alleviation in Njombe district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Bilonkwanamagara, Meshack Fanuel Sunzu
Informal agricultural information dissemination networks are essentially an extension system, which involves informal mechanisms of information diffusion among farmers often from primary source of information to another. This study examined the interaction between extension agents, farmers within the framework of farmer-to-farmer sharing informal information and in turn of information exchange, contributes to increase awareness and income to receivers. The study was carried out in five divisions of Njombe district whereby, a cross-sectional design was adopted and structured questionnaires were administered to a 100 representative sample selected randomly. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used for data coding and analysis. Informal agricultural information dissemination networks have an influence on farmer’s household income hence alleviate poverty. Some well-interacted farmers applied the information obtained from their fellow hence adopted agricultural technologies to get more yield. About (94%) respondents’ skills, farm production, livestock production, secured revenue ranged from 10 000 - 10000 OOOTshs. Some (19%) informal information beneficiaries have expanded there farming areas to more than six acres, shops and others entrepreneurship activities including owning valuable assets like milling machines. Informal information adopters have brought impact on neighbouring farmers and 41 % from them applied improved techniques sourced from their fellow farmers. Unlike (5%) non-interacted farmers were found to lag behind in yield and income. However (72%) of farmers sold their crops to middlemen and businessmen at their fields or homes due to lack of markets. It was concluded that informal information has significant economic contribution to household income derived from agricultural crops and livestock to well interacted people. This draws attention to the government to improve extension delivery services, raising farmers morale through adequate input subsidies, acquire enough extension workers and improve their work morale. While district authorities should improve infrastructures including market centers and rural roads for effective business operation.
The role of farmers’ groups networks in the adoption and diffusion of selected agricultural technologies in upper Mgeta, Morogoro rural district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1998) Shenduli, Asina Ali
The study established that farmers find the local network to be important as a technology dissemination tool, for mutual support as well as for material support. The local network influences group members to adopt different innovations at a higher level than non-group members. This has been achieved through effective communication of extension messages between farmers and change agents and among farmers themselves. Farmers who are group members are highly aware of received messages concerning the innovations. It is recommended that not only group representatives should participate in network meetings but also the other group members should be involved so that they can participate fully in the sharing and exchanging of information.
Factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural activities in Tanzania: a case of Makambako town council, Njombe region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Sanga,Damian Zebedayo Mwilongo
This study presents findings on the factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural activities in Makambako Town Council, Njombe region. The overall objective of study was to assess factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural activities in Tanzania. Specifically the study sought to: identify socio economic characteristics of youth in the study area, identify the potential agricultural activities and other job alternatives youth engaged with, examine contribution of identified agricultural activities on youth economic needs, determine the perception of youth on engagement in agricultural activities and identify factors influencing their engagement. The study employed a cross- sectional research design and sample size of 120 respondents. Structured questionnaire for respondents, key informants, checklist key of agenda for Focused Group Discussions (FGD) and observation tools were used to collect primary data. Data analysis was aided by computer software called Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Frequencies and percentages were computed. Socio economic characteristics of respondents examined were sex, age, education level and marital status. The study concluded that, agricultural activities done in research area include; food and cash crops production, livestock keeping, trees planting and bee keeping. Common non-agricultural activities include masonry works, carpentry, motorcycle transport services and shop keeping. Findings from this research reveal that economic needs of youth include house, communication facilities and land. Agricultural activities identified contribute greatly in providing youth economic needs. Most youth perceive agriculture as an excellent employment. Based on regression results, factors influencing youth engagement in agricultural activities include; shortage of arable land, agricultural extension services, agricultural knowledge, youth mobilization, youth policies, decision making, capital, financial credit services, agricultural infrastructures, poor agricultural technology and inputs supply, high inputs’ prices and undefined crops market conditions, undefined selling units and low prices of crops. Intervention strategies for agricultural sector improvement should be guided b> youth socio-economic characteristics and their opinions.
Factors influencing the use of mobile phones in communicating agricultural information: a case of Kilolo district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Siwel Yohakim Nyamba
This study sought to investigate factors that influence the use of mobile phones in the communication of agricultural information in Kilolo district. The study examined the use of mobile phones as a means for achieving agricultural development. The study population comprised all farmers regardless their mobile phone ownership. The study adapted a cross sectional study design and a multistage simple random sampling technique, where, 384 respondents were selected. Data were mainly collected using an interview schedule. The results revealed that majority of respondents used mobile phones and had positive attitude on the contribution of mobile phone in their farming business. The study had three hypotheses to be tested: mobile phones ownership have no statistical significant influence in communicating agricultural information; different types of agricultural information have no statistical significant influence on mobile phones use in communicating agricultural information and; respondents’ socio-economic factors have no statistical significant influence on mobile phones use in communicating agricultural information. The study results indicated that mobile phones offered an attractive solution to farmers’ informational needs. Factors specified to have an influence on mobile phone use in the communication of agricultural information included: mobile phone ownership, type of agricultural information, farming system practiced, network coverage, respondents’ demographic characteristics, and time of mobile phone ownership. The study concluded that the use of mobile phone to communicate agriculture information depend on mobile phone ownership, type of information to be communicated and individuals’ socio economic factors. The study recommended that many farmers be encouraged and supported so to access and use mobile phones in their farming business.
Factors influencing the performance of public and private agricultural extension agents in providing agricultural information and services in Liwale District
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Sadiki,Magembe Mustapha
This study was conducted in Liwale District Council to investigate factors influencing the performance of GAEAs and PAEAs in providing Agricultural Information and Services (AIS). The study population comprised of smallholders that GAEAs provided Agricultural Information and Services (AIS) in the District. The data were collected in four purposively selected villages which included. Mihumo. Liwale B. Ngongowelc and Mirui. A crosssectional research design was adopted in which data were collected at one point in time from a selected sample of respondents. A sample of 60 respondents was randomly selected and the data were mainly collected using questionnaires. The study results show that, GAEAs offered Al to farmers about land preparation planting and spacing. GAEAs vaccinating local chicken against NCD. In offering Agricultural Information Al 28 (46%) of the respondents indicated that GAEAs visited them one day per week. However, an overall of 52 (85%) of the respondents said that they were not satisfied with the frequency of the visits that GAEAs made and proposed to be visited 3 times per week. Similarly, 30 (50%) of the respondents said that GAEAs visited them once per month in the provision of give Agricultural Services (AS). However, overall 54 (90%) of the respondents indicated not being satisfied with the frequency of visits and proposed to be visited more than one month in the cropping season. Of all the respondents. 52 (85%) agreed that GAEAs were competent in providing Al and 54 (90%) reported the same on the providing AS. The study found that the factors which influence the performance of GAEAs in the provision of AIS were gender, education, types of crops raised by respondents and, distance from the headquarters. Other factors were; awareness of agricultural policy, availability of money, working relationship with farmers, and transport. This study recommends that, GAEAs should increase the frequency of the provision of AIS to farmers and strengthen provided AS on planting cashew nuts, sesame, maize, cassava and sorghum, and on the working relationship between GAEAs and farmers. The District should establish more capacity building strategies for GAEAs. Also the District should increase the number of GAEAs to increase the coverage.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice towards hiv/aids prevention among secondary school students in Morogoro urban and peri-urban
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2007) Julian, Annastazia
The study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitudes and practice toward HIV/A1DS prevention among secondary school students in Morogoro Urban and Peri-Urban. Specially, the study was specifically aimed al determining whether the awareness and knowledge on the HIV/AIDS prevention have any influence in the attitude and risk behaviours that lead to transmission of HIV/AIDS: examining the relationship between the socio-economic and socio-cultural activities which lead to early engagement into sexual activities by the youth: determining factors which influence girls and boys to risk of HIV/AIDS infection and identifying appropriate education and information required among the youth in secondary schools so as to reduce the HIV/AIDS transmission. This study has been prompted by the fact that today's young people are the AIDS generation. They have never known a world without HIV. Millions already have died. Yet the HIV/AIDS pandemic among the youth remains largely invisible to adults and to young people themselves, this would have a wide range of negative impacts affecting demography. A cross-sectional survey using structured questionnaire was used in data collection. A total of 210 respondents were interviewed. In general, some students believe that they are invulnerable though most of them (73.8%) admitted to have had sexual intercourse without condoms in the first time they had it. Their responses were good but they have a problem in putting into practice what they know, such findings reflect the distorted sense of invulnerability to HIV/AIDS that many young people have. The present study could contribute to devising and implementing the planning of prevention strategies that focus on the youth. It shows that, only a combination of approaches can succeed in its reduction. There should be a collaboration amongst secondary schools, health organization, and educational specialists and health care providers.
Accessibility of agricultural technical information to rural women in Morogoro rural district Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1992) Wambura, Charles Wakihobi Mwita
Rural women are responsible preserve bi on and sborage. for food c.u Itivation, the problem facing Current Iy, them i s bwo-fo1d. In the first place they do not have ready access to relevant agricultural information even that which i s avai1able wi th i n the i r o w n c o u n t r i e s. Second 1y, when transfer of agricultural information does occur, it is most frequently d i rected rather farmers to ma 1 e farmers who are the main food producers. women The purpose of access!bi 1i bybo information in Morogoro rural d i str i ct.The this study was to assess rural agricultural womens’ than specific objectives of the study were: 1) to determine the extent to which information on innovation agricultural i s avai1able to rural women 2) to determi ne the types channels of providing innovation to rural information on agricultural women 3) to how determi ne extensioncontact,levelof mari taistatusandage accessi bi 1i tyto education,i ncome, i nf1uencerura 1 women’s agricultural information and 4) to identify constraints hampering transfer of agricultural information to rural women, In the study area,the data were col 1ected by using structured questionnaires and researcher’s diary. A simple random sampling technique was applied to obtain a random sample of 160 respondents. One of the results of the study was that although rural women generally received information on f a r m p r a c t i c e s f r o m various sou rces, the impact of these sources to women’s access to agricultural info rmat i on is still low. The results showed further that 1ocal sources of information in the form of husbands and neighbours, werethe most preferred sources followed by extensionand income, agents education, med i a, mass in that order. extension contact and maritai Age, status were found to be significantly related to the frequency of behavi our. i nformat i on acqui siti on that man the i nformati on extension t was to constrai nts rural women in The study the were determi ned offarm soci o-cu1tu ra1and transfer inadequaci es. As a consequence of the results, recommended that: 1 ) extension - agents shou1d be provided with transport and be encouraged to reach female farmers; 2) local sources of information should be used more often i n order to reach rural farmers, and 3) rural women shou1d be exposed more to such extension teaching methods as demonstrations and frequent farm visits.
The role of farmer research groups in agricultural technology generation and dissemination in the coffee-banana-based farming Systems: the case of Bukoba rural district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Ndiwaita,Gerson Ngaiza
This study examined the role of Farmer Research Groups (FRGs) in agricultural technology generation and dissemination in Bukoba Rural District. The specific objectives of the study were to: (i) identify and describe the general characteristics of the FRGs, (ii) identify technologies that were promoted by researchers through FRGs, (iii) describe the nature and extent of farmer participation in the process of agricultural technology generation and dissemination, and (iv) identify the strengths and weaknesses of FRGs in agricultural technology generation and dissemination. The research design of this study was a cross-sectional survey. Data were collected using an interview schedule and a questionnaire supported by personal observation and informal discussion with key informants. A representative sample size of 60 respondents (30 FRG members and 30 non-FRG members) was drawn from a sampling frame using a table of random numbers. In addition, five researchers and extensionists involved in the FRG programme were interviewed in order to enrich the findings of this study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed in the analysis of the data. The characteristics of the respondents that were interviewed in this study are presented in chapter four. The findings showed that agricultural technologies such as use of improved seed varieties and use of manure and fertilisers for maize, cassava, bean and sweatpotatoes were the type of technologies that were experimented in order to see their performance on farmers’ fields by ARI-Maruku through FRGs. Furthermore, farmers were educated on the control of banana weevils through trapping techniques and use of improved bean storage techniques. Majority of the FRG respondents (70 percent) were involved in carrying out research trials, attending research meetings and iii seminars. In addition, respondents indicated that meeting (77 percent) was the most widely used method of dissemination, apart from other methods like field visits and demonstration. The major constraints of farmer participation in FRGs were: lack of support services such as inputs, credit and reliable markets, poor coordination and communication between FRG members and researchers and too much work to some households. The study revealed the strengths of FRG approach as: education of farmers on improved farming practices, enhanced acceptance of agricultural technologies, increased group unity and improved farmer to farmer information sharing. Some weaknesses that were identified in the study were: lack of proper and systematic record keeping that is required to evaluate the results, lack of capital to purchase inputs and targeting a small number of farmers.
The role of women in the indigenous farming system of the Matengo highlands, Mbinga District, Ruvuma region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1997) Mbago M. H
This study on the role of women in the indigenous farming system of the Matengo highlands was done in three villages of Mbinga District. Interest in this study was prompted by the recognition that although there is an increasing number of studies on indigenous farming systems, few studies have concentrated on the role of gender in the development of the indigenous farming systems themselves. This has resulted into the neglect of the women's local innovation and knowledge systems by development planners and agencies, even though women are the ones mostly involved in the indigenous farming systems. The study described the indigenous farming system of the Matengo, and determined the role of women in the indigenous farming system, how the role of women in the indigenous farming system has changed over time, and women's and men's opinions on the existing gender division of labour. A cross-sectional design supplemented by an observation checklist were used in data collection. A total of 104 farmers with equal number of males and females were interviewed using structured questionnaires. Observation checklists were also utilized for twenty farmers out of 104 interviewed. Generally this study revealed that the Matengo system of farming is designed for the mountainous areas in order to reduce soil erosion and maintain the natural fertility of the soil. The gender distribution of work in the Matengo society leaves most of the tedious tasks of farming to women. However their contribution to non-ngoro farming activities cannot be ignored. Apart from their high contribution to ngoro activities as well as non-ngoro activities, the majority of women were not involved in decision making in the family. Also women were found to have less access to land, extension services and credit compared to men. Majority of women farmers suggested that the pattern of division of labour, land ownership and decision making should not be biased towards men in the ngoro system of farming. The disappearance of cooperative working {ngokela) and expansion of the ngoro farms in order to produce crops for sale was reported by the respondents to increase the labour requirement of women. It is recommended that serious sensitization programmes should be employed to open the minds of men towards equal contribution to the farm activities, to make women join various village organisations in order to know and to claim for their rights. Also the dissemination of extension services, credit and other services should target women more deliberately.
The influence of savings and credit co-operative societies on the adoption of improved crop production techniques by smallholder farmers in Songea Rural District.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Maswaga K. A .S
Savings and Credit Co-operative Societies (SACCOs) in the rural areas are assumed to influence the adoption of crop production techniques by smallholder farmers. However, the extent to which SACCOs influence the adoption of crop production techniques by smallholder farmers in the rural areas is not known and this forms the major reason for conducting this study. The general objective of this study was to assess the influence of (SACCOs) on the adoption of recommended use of fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides and agricultural practices in the rural areas. The specific objectives of the study were to determine the extent to which SACCOs are involved in crop production in terms of loan disbursement, supervision and recovery; to compare the factors associated with the adoption of crop production techniques between SACCO and non-SACCO members and to compare between SACCO and non-SACCO members on the adoption of recommended use of fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides and practices on the major cash and food crops in the study area. The study was purposely carried out in Naikesi and Lilondo villages in Songea Rural District based on their accessibility from Songea town and savings status of SACCOs serving those villages. While Naikesi was served by Nguvumali SACCO, Lilondo was served by Wino SACCO. A cross-sectional survey was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 120 smallholder farmers, 60 from each village using structured questionnaire. The sampling frames of SACCO, and non-SACCO members were used to select 30 smallholder farmers each in each village. Collected data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme. The analysis was supplemented by a review of available reports and published material from SACCOs, Agricultural Marketing Co-operatives Societies (AMCs), and Co-operative department. The study revealed that the influence of SACCOs on the adoption of recommended use of fertilisers, pesticides, fungicides and practices was only felt in successful SACCOs (Wino SACCO in this case) where the amount of savings was big enough to provide credit on request, supervision through credit utilisation training and loan recovery was successfully done. Also, successful SACCOs influenced the interaction of SACCO members with institutions such as markets and extension services (where a good link between SACCOs and those institutions existed) and improved their socio-economic status. However, the participation of females in SACCOs was found to be very low. In general, while it is recommended to mobilise the formation of rural SACCOs, strengthening them by improving their savings and management capacity is equally important. Production credit and especially crop production credit must be emphasised through the use of by-laws and/or policy changes. The government, SACCO members, NGOs and other organisations have a role to play in strengthening SACCOs. Credit use training must be encouraged and also females must be encouraged to join SACCOs.
Community perception on impact of climate changes on water resources: a case of rural areas of Temeke district in Dar es salaam
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Kitundu, Joyce Joseph
Although various researches have been done on water resources, the extent to which impact on climate changes on water resources in Temeke District was empirically unknown. Therefore, the study was conducted in rural areas of Temeke District with the specific objectives to: (i) find out factors that affect water resources, (ii) examine the community perception on the impacts of climate change on water resources, (iii) determine community’s awareness on climate change and water resources, and (iv) determine the measures taken by communities on the impact of climate change on water resources. Data were collected in November 2007 through focus group discussion, a questionnaire-based survey, key informants interviews, documentary review and participant observation. Questionnaire-based data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. Chi-square test was used to show relationship between some variables. The chi-square test results showed that there was a relationship at (p<0.05) between trends of crop production and perception on the impact of climate change on water resources. Index and likert scale were used to show the community perception. Findings of study revealed that 67% of the respondents were aware on the impact of climate change of water resources. Scores on index scale level of awareness of impact of climate change on water resources by sex is the same for male and female respondents; two-thirds of respondents (67%) had aware of it. The major conclusion from the study is that awareness of the respondents on the impact of climate change on water resources was high. Based on conclusion, it is recommended that human socio-economic activities and climate variability should be reduced by training communities to mitigate the impact of climate change on water resources. Government and NGOs should lay down proper policy mechanisms for promoting rural dwellers participation in water resources management in their areas.
Influence of climate variability on wetland cultivation: a case of lake Victoria shoreline wetlands in Misungwi district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Joseph, Maganga Cypridion
This study assessed the influence of climate variability on wetland cultivation using a case of Lake Victoria shoreline wetlands in Misungwi District. Specifically the study assessed farmers’ awareness of climate variability taking place in the study area, rainfall and temperature variability and their influence on wetland farming, and lastly assessed wetland cover changes in relation to increased agricultural activities and climate variability. The study used information and data collected from four villages selected from three wards bordering the lake. Primary data were collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire, key informant interviews checklist and observations. Also secondary data were collected from different sources. A total of 147 farmers cultivating in wetlands along Lake Victoria shoreline were interviewed. Furthermore, remotely sensed imageries were used for land use and land cover mapping within the study area. Quantitative socio-economic information was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) while satellite images were analyzed using ERDAS Imagine and ArcView GIS software. Mann- Kendal test was used to analyse the trends in rainfall and temperature for different years. Results indicate that rainfall was declining with varying distribution over time. The intermediate rainfall mainly January and February increased slightly while long rains decreased over the whole periods. Maximum and minimum Temperature revealed mixed treads (increasing and decreasing) over the different periods under considerations. The land cover/use change analysis revealed that for the period 1975-2011, the cultivated land increased by 15% and open water bodies by 2% while grassland decreased by 11% and closed forest by 9%. The changes were attributable to overgrazing, agricultural Expansion, availability of market for horticultural crops and settlements due to population increase as revealed from interviews. Results revealed that 95.9% of respondents interviewed were aware on climate variability. The study concludes that climate variability have had influence on wetland cultivation.
Peformance assessment of semi-formal systems of credit for small scale farmers in Arumeru district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Sumay, Francisca Pancras
The main objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of semi-formal financial services in increasing access to credit by small scale farmers. The data were collected from four villages of Poli Division in Arumeru District, and from the three semi-formal financial institutions offering credit to the interviewed small scale farmers. The specific objectives were to: identify/characterize semi-formal sources of credit in the study area; assess the different types of credit required and obtained by small scale farmers; determine the characteristics that discriminate users and non users of credit from semi-formal services; describe the procedures and conditions for accessing the credit from these institutions; and to determine the utilization of credit from semi-formal sources and to what effect. One hundred small scale farmers (50 with credit and 50 without credit) were interviewed using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire. The analysis was carried out by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme, where means, frequencies and percentages were established. The Cross-tab sub-program was also applied to determine the relationship between and among the variables. This was supplemented by a review of the available reports and published material from the credit institutions. The study revealed that small scale farmers can access credit from semi-formal credit institutions, but the main problems are the long distances to the credit offices and the difficult loan conditions. Socio-economic characteristics do not discriminate users and non-users of credit. The basic human needs are not fulfilled, thus loanii divergence, however, majority of small scale farmers benefit from using credit to finance agricultural production. From the study the following can be recommended: establishment of financial institutions which deal also with loans for agricultural purposes; small scale farmers should be educated on how to manage their farming business and the importance of being credit-worthy; the government should provide its people with essential welfare services (health, education); and also a reliable market or processing industries should be established so as to avoid losses during harvestTHESES
Challenges and opportunities of participatory technology development: the case of the coconut rhinoceros beetle control project in Bagamoyo District, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Ihzza, Furaiiini Salim
The overall objective of this study was to identify challenges and opportunities in participatory technology development using the Integrated Pest Management of the Rhinoceros Beetle project in Bagamoyo District in Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were to identify the socio-economic characteristics of the farmers who participated in the Integrated Pest Management; io identify the specific roles of farmers and researchers in the development, testing and dissemination of the IPM technologies in the study area; and to identify (he constraints and opportunities that faced farmers and researchers in the implementation of (he Integrated Pest Management project in the study area. The sample of 92 coconut farmers selected from three villages in which the project was implemented. A structured questionnaire was used to interview the respective farmers and key informants to get relevant primary data about PTD in the study area. Secondary data were obtained from research records and district production data sources. Then using an SPSS primary data were coded, entered and analyzed. Descriptive data analysis was conducted to obtain frequencies and percentages, while inferential analysis involved t-test. Findings revealed that respondents who were involved in PTD were youth to middle age, married, males and those who owned l-2acres. T-test revealed that PTD in IPM significantly increased coconut production (p<0.05). Findings revealed that fanner, extension and researchers played various roles in PTD. It is recommended to consider socio-economic characteristics, and every partner in coconut production should play relevant role, (he government should support these parlies for improved crop production and food security by laying down all necessary infrastructure to ease farm produce movement and to link farmers to input suppliers, and provide support to extension staff to reach the marginal farmers.
Effect of high rates of fertilizer and longer harvesting periods on seed production, dry matter yield and chemical composition of stylosanthes guianensis and stylosanthes Hamata at Morogoro.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Liumba, Anastazia Mohammed Nassoro
A study was conducted to examine the effect of high rates of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizer application and longer harvesting periods on seed production, dry matter (DM) yield and chemical composition of Stylosanthes guianensis and Stylosanthes hamata at Morogoro. A split plot experimental layout design was used. Four levels of N (0,30,60 and 90kg/ha) and four levels of P (0,60,120 and 180kg/ha) were arranged factorially as main-plot treatment. Sub-plot treatments were harvesting periods, which were 50% flowering stage, 4 th 8 th 10th, 12th and 14 th week post 50% flowering stage. The results showed that both S.guianensis and S.hamata did (p<0.05)to N application in terms of seed yield and DM yield.Nitrogen application not respond significantly slightly increased CP% , IVDMD% and IVOMD% of S. guianensis. Phosphorus fertilizer application on the other hand, did not affect seed yield and DM yield of S. hamata and seed yield of S.guianensis whereas it increased DM yield of S.guianensis as the levels increased. The over all quality of herbage produced application. declined in both species with P
The impact of jatropha bio-fuel production on rural livelihood amongst smallholder farmers in Monduli and Mpanda districts
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Mandore, Joseph Emanuel
Jatropha curcas was introduced in East Africa a long time ago. It came via India and it was initially planted in order to mark field boundaries. It resists droughts and it is not eaten by domesticated animals. It prevents soil erosion, as well as protecting livestock and food crops. However, its potentiality in bio-fuel production can not be undermined. The local annual demand for ethanol and bio-diesel in Tanzania is estimated to be 568 and 886 million litres respectively. This means that the country has an annual export potential to the world market of ethanol and bio-diesel of about 3 442 and 840 million litres respectively. But yet to date the impact of Jatropha bio fuel production on rural livelihoods amongst smallholder farmers is not well known. This calls for the need to conduct research on the threats of the Jatropha curcas plant in the study sites. Specifically, this study assessed the impact of Jatropha bio fuel production on food security, land use, and the factors influencing adoption of Jatropha curcas. Data from Monduli were collected from Engaruka juu, and Engaruka Chini wards and data from Mpanda site were collected from Usevya and Katumba wards. Data were collected through questionnaires and focus group discussions with key informants. Statistical Packages for Social Science (SPSS) were used to analyse the data using frequencies and percentages. The findings revealed that women and children of poor households are the ones mainly involved in Jatropha bio-fuel production activities, and thus Jatropha crop is often seen as a crop of the poor farmers, grown as live fences, for soil erosion prevention and livestock protection and has little significance impact on rural livelihood’s improvement in the study sites. Also the study reveals that Smallholder farmers plant Jatropha crop as a cash crop in small plots and fence, expecting an increased income with good market price, but unfortunately, these expectations have not been met.
Interactive radio-based agricultural knowledge sharing: a case study of women crop farmers in dodoma city, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024) Hangambage, Stella Libent
This study was conducted in the area under the jurisdiction of Dodoma City Council, in Dodoma Region, Tanzania. The data collection took place between March and April 2023. The main objective of the study focused on assessing interactive radio-based agricultural knowledge sharing by women crop farmers in Dodoma City. The selected administrative streets were Mchemwa, and Azimio from Makutupora ward, Maendeleo and Chihanga from Chihanga ward, and Hombolo Bwawani B from Hombolo ward. The study focused on assessing interactive ways used by radio programmers to obtain women crop farmers’ agricultural reactions and demands. The study specifically intended to identify women crop farmers’ agriculture-related radio programs co-decided as relevant. Also, the study intended to identify women crop farmers’ limitations to be involved in the co-deciding process. To achieve these objectives, face-to-face interviews, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews were employed. Purposive and snowball sampling procedure was used to identify study participants. Questionnaires with open-ended questions were used to allow the study participants to provide views in their own words. Afterward, content analysis was used to analyse the data according to the study objective and themes. The study revealed that radio programmers interact with women crop farmers by visiting them in their fields/ home to conduct face-to- face interviews while recording their agricultural reactions and demands. Moreover, radio programmers provide opportunities for women crop farmers to call and share their opinions or ask for information clarifications. Likewise, the programmers invite women crop farmers as guests in the studio to talk on various topics. Despite such interactive ways available, the study found that there is inadequate interaction between women crop farmers and radio programmers. The low interaction results from women crop farmers' many household responsibilities, being prohibited by their husbands from speaking on behalf of their families (taboos), language barriers and not being contacted by radio programmers. Moreover, identified barriers include a scarcity of radios and mobile phones, absence of electricity for device charging, domestic responsibilities, fear of spousal disapproval, and non-contact by programmers, voucher purchase costs, and language obstacles. Second, radio programmers inadequately align with the agricultural- specific needs of women crop farmers. The majority of women crop farmers have time between 20:00 and 22:00 hours at night. The reason attributing to this is that women crop farmers are busy with household responsibilities at other times. The study further found that radio programmers prefer the morning sessions. Moreover, women crop farmers preferred language differ from that used by radio programmers when airing agricultural radio programs. The study found that women crop farmers prefer the use of both Swahili and vernacular languages. Unluckily, the study found that most of the licenses provided by the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) to radio stations recommend the use of Swahili only. Third, women crop farmers lack knowledge on who is responsible for preparing agricultural radio programs. The study found that women crop farmers know that those responsible for preparing agricultural radio programs are radio programmers only. This situation makes some women crop farmers to demand gifts especially money for them to give their agricultural information. The tendency makes radio programmers to decide alone on what agricultural radio programs to air. The study concludes that although interactive radio programs are crucial in promoting agricultural knowledge sharing for women crop farmers, they are still some challenges related to the scarcity of radios and mobile phones ownership, the absence of electricity for device charging, domestic responsibilities, and spousal disapproval. Moreover, non-contact by programmers, voucher purchase costs, and language obstacles remain a barrier. Therefore, the government through the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) should address financial constraints hindering women's crop farmers from interacting with radio programmers. This will align with the TCRA's core value of commitment to prioritizing information consumer interests. Additionally, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology is urged to empower school girls by providing agricultural education through secondary levels. In turn, the school girls will share the information to their mothers. The proposed initiatives can foster improved access to vital agricultural information for women crop farmers and contribute to their socio-economic development.
Socio-cultural factors leading to pregnancy among primary school girls in Tanzania: a case study of Morogoro municipality
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Kombe, Noe Jonathan
Pregnancy among school girls is one of the factors contributing to students' dropout. This problem cuts across the whole country as well as other African countries. The general objective of this study was to identify socio-cultural factors that accelerate pregnancy in primary school girls. Specific objectives were to determine the influence of local video show centers, traditional ceremonies, some TV channels and programs and parenting behavior on cases of pregnancy among young girls. Morogoro Municipality was taken as a case study where by a sample of 120 respondents, 45 teachers, 45 students and 30 parents participated in the study. A cross section research design was used to obtain qualitative and quantitative data using structured questionnaires. The data obtained were coded and analyzed by using SPSS computer program. The study findings revealed that, unregistered local video show centers, traditional ceremonies, some TV channels such as channel E and O, Poor cooperation between parents and teachers and forced marriages contribute much to pregnancy among young girls. Government, parents, guardians and policy makers are called up on to assess the existing local video show centers to make sure that they operate according to rules and regulations stipulated by the government. provide transport, meals and health education for the school children so as to rescue girls from teenage pregnancies “It is the task for all, everyone should participate".

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