Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/29

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 156

Perceived effects of tree planting in Iringa and Njombe regions Tanzania
(International Forestry Review, 2025) Martin, R.; Mhando, D.G.; Nyanda, S. S.; Lusasi, J.
The study investigated the perceived effects of tree planting initiatives at a community level within Southern Highlands of Tanzania, addressing a critical gap in the literature regarding local responses to economic benefits and the pursuit of sustainability goals. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study integrated quantitative data with qualitative interviews from local stakeholders. Results indicated enhanced economic benefits from sustainable tree products, which contributed to improved livelihoods and community resilience against climate impacts. The implications suggest that small-scale afforestation can be a viable solution to environmental degradation while providing economic and social benefits to local communities. The findings advocate for policy recommendations that support the integration of tree growing into agricultural practices, promoting sustainability and resilience in small-holder territories.
A comparative analysis of RIPAT and other selected participatory rural development approaches used in Tanzania
(Mkuki na Nyota Publishers Ltd, 2023) Madaha, Rasel; Martin, Respikius; Mwakatoga, Joyce
Influenced by the African socialism philosophy of the late Julius Nyerere and the participant research practices of Marja Liisa Swantz, Tanzania is one of the pioneers of participatory action research in the world. Within the mentioned milieu, participatory approaches have become widespread. The approaches are geared at enabling rural communities to address their challenges through participatory approaches. This book chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of locally improved rural development approaches that have been developed and improved in the Tanzanian context. Using primary and secondary data from some Tanzanian rural interventions by Uluguru Mountains Agricultural Development Project (process approach) and World Vision Tanzania (ADP approach), the chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of the mentioned strategies and RIPAT (Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation) to shed some light on rural development efforts in the Tanzanian context. The process approach involves participatory endogenous processes of development that start with the recognition of the local capacities of the people. TI1e ADP (Area Development Programmes) approach is a participatory approach that seeks to induce communities with capabilities to undertake appropriate actions to accomplish economic and social progress. More recently, World Vision Tanzania (WVT) reframed the acronym ADP by calling it Tanzania Empowerment ADP Model (TEAM). RIPAT is a participatory extension approach that transfers a 'basket' of agricultural technology options, including various crops and livestock, to groups of 25 to 30 smallholder farmers in a way that allows for joint, experiential, and participatory learning. In 2017 Research, Community and Organisational Development Associates (RECODA) entered a two year contract with WVT of co-owning the approach; the agreement ended in 2019. The engagement allowed World Vision Tanzania to use the RIPAT approach in ADPs. All in all, some literature suggests that participatory approaches fail to empower people in real life situation. In this regard and drawing from the participatory theory and practice, the chapter assesses the sustainability of the approaches.
The contribution of the RIPAT approach in the adoption of agricultural technologies in the uluguru mountains
(Mkuki na Nyota Publishers Ltd, 2023) Nyanda, Suzana S.; Martin, Respikius; Mwaseba, Dismas L.
Extension services play pivotal roles in linking farmers to knowledge, information and technologies that are central to attaining agricultural productivity. The limited number of extension agents coupled with the use of inappropriate approaches in the delivery of extension services has been regarded as one of the causes of low adoption of agricultural technologies. To overcome this, innovative and cost-effective agricultural extension approaches have been developed and promoted. One of such approaches is the Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation (RIPAT) which forms the focus of this chapter. Specifically, the chapter presents: (i) the role of the RIPAT approach in the adoption of agricultural technologies, (ii) technologies promoted by the RIPAT-SUA project and their adoption by farmers, and (iii) factors affecting the adoption of the promoted technologies. The findings presented are drawn from an exploratory cross-sectional research done in six randomly selected villages surrounding the Uluguru Mountains where the RIPAT-SUA project has been implemented. A total of 238 households (120 RIPAT participating farmers and 118 non-group farmers) were randomly selected from the project villages for the farmers' survey. Additionally, a total of 15 key informants were involved in in-depth interviews. Desk review of project documents was also conducted. Descriptive statistics and content analyses were used for the quantitative and qualitative data analysis respectively. The study found that a basket of options that gave farmers the opportunity to choose the technologies they can implement was the key to adoption of technologies. In this respect, 92.5% of the group members adopted more than two technologies whereas 69% of non-group members adopted at least two technologies from the basket of options. The RIPAT approach has great potential to reach many farmers through its scaling-up tactic involving the RIPAT start and RIPAT spreading groups using lead farmers. This approach can facilitate the dissemination of new agricultural technologies in situations with limited professional extension workers. The study therefore recommends that the Ministry of Agriculture should integrate the RIPAT approach in the public agricultural extension framework.
Participatory future visions of collaborative agroecological farmer-pastoralist systems in Tanzania
(Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems, 2023-01-09) Johansson, Emma; Martin, Respikius; Mapunda, Kenneth M.
Agroecology is increasingly promoted as a way to create just and sustainable farm- and food systems. Although there are multiple initiatives to scale up agroecology, current socio- political structures often hinder its potential to transform food systems. This study uses participatory approaches to create paintings that envision agroecological futures in the context of increased farmer-pastoralist collaborations in Tanzania, how they would function, and what political action is needed to support such futures. The visions are based on focus group discussions with agroecological farmers and pastoralists, and a multi-stakeholder workshop with farmer and pastoralist repre sentatives, innovative food system actors, and researchers. We find that the envisioned transformation of the food system would lead to positive effects on farmers’ and pastoralists’ income, autonomy, long-term planning, and producers’ and consumers’ health. We conclude that new policies and financial support systems are needed to enable the expansion of agroe cological farming and food systems, by increasing the availabil ity of organic markets, supporting domestic botanicals production, and by creating more inclusive and just food value chains.
The role of farmer research networks’ (frn) principles in influencing farmers’ adoption of improved groundnut cultivars in Singida rural District of semi-arid central Tanzania
(ournal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 2023-05-05) Chilewa, Humphrey Shadrack; Martin, Respikius; Ntumva, Mabebe
Farmer Research Networks (FRN) is a participatory approach aimed at supporting the agroecological intensification of smallholder farming. FRN was envisaged in Latin America and Africa, however, little has been documented on how the application of FRN principles influences adoption of agricultural technologies. Guided by networking, innovation systems and Roger’s theories of diffusion of innovations, this research assessed how the application of three principles, that is, 1) farmer participation, 2) usefulness of on-farm research, and 3) collaboration amongst players in networks influenced the adoption of improved groundnuts. Cross sectional mixed research methods were used. Findings show that farmers participated in forming FRN groups, the production of Quality Declared Seeds and the provision of farmer-to-farmer extension services. On-farm research was instrumental for observational and experimental research whereby farmers were able to see, learn, and adopt the innovation. Players collaborate through joint research, learning, and sharing of knowledge and resources; farmers’ field days; and project meetings. It is concluded that farmers participated in conducting on-farm research and collaborated with different players in the network, indicating that FRN principles were applied to influence the adoption of improved groundnuts. The study recommends farmer participation in preliminary meetings and strengthening the linkage between farmers and more actors.
Reconsidering home or farm visits extension method for improving impact of agricultural extension
(Journal of Agricultural Extension, 2023-10-15) Martin, Respikius
This study examined how agricultural extension agents conduct farm or home visits. It analysed the extent to which extension agents follow the guidelines for conducting farm/home visits and the relationship between extension agent’s characteristics and implementation of guidelines for conducting home/farm visits. Data for the study were collected through a survey of 69 agricultural extension agents obtained from 22 Tanzania Mainland and Zanzibar regions. Also, qualitative data were collected through in-depth interviews with key informants. In general, findings showed that home or farm visits are poorly planned which negatively affected the conduct of the visits. Furthermore, due to the high farmer extension ratio, extension agents do not always make follow-ups of their visits. A large number of farmers constrained extension agents from visiting all farmers, despite this reality farm or farm visit is still an important extension method. Nevertheless, for extension agents to be effective, they need to consider planning home or farm visits as part of the successful extension work.
Exploring electronic waste situation in africa: a review
(J. Appl. Sci. Environ. Manage, 2023-12-30) Martin, R; Mwakatoga, J. D; Madaha, R. M; Babili, I. H; Kibonde, S. F; Sanga, C. A
In recent years African countries are grappling with the increase of electronic waste (e-waste) which poses challenge to environment and human health. However, factors influencing electronic waste situation in Africa have not been explored and thus not well understood. To fill the gap, this paper aims at exploring e-waste situation in Africa and analysing factors influencing the situation. To address the objective, a systematic literature review was adopted. Findings show that the amount of e-waste has been increasing in both developed and developing countries over time. Although there are common factors associated with the increase of e-waste, some factors are unique to Africa. These are: reduced cost of used items, taxi incentives for importation of electronic devices and increased use of ICT devices in various sectors. Furthermore, findings show that developed and developing countries differ in terms of the risks posed by the e-waste and this difference is dependent on how e-waste is managed. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that the situation of e-waste in Africa is somehow different from developed world both in terms of the factors influencing the situation and ways of managing e-waste. In order to deal with e-waste situation, African countries need to improve awareness of their people, establish and capacitate institutions for dealing with e-waste and invest in technologies for managing e-waste.
Competences of agricultural extension agents in using value chain approach in advising farmers in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Kalungwizi, V. J.; Martin, R.; Busindeli, I. M.
Recently, value chain approach in agriculture has been promoted in order to cope with market challenges which smallholder farmers face. This has necessitated changes in roles of extension agents who are supposed to advice farmers beyond the production node. However, most of the extension agents have assumed the new roles without being equipped necessary knowledge and skills to enable them discharge their roles effectively. In this context, extension agents’ competences in advising farmers along the entire value chain and its implication are not fully investigated and understood. The, purpose of this study was to investigate the competences of extension agents in advising farmers along agricultural value chain in Tanzania. Specifically, the study sought to answer three questions; 1) to what extent do extension agents support farmers along the value chain? 2) which aspects of the value chain are well supported and which ones are not well supported? 3) what are the perceived obstacles that limit extension agents advise farmers beyond the production node?. To answer these questions a convenient sample of 196 field extension agents was used. Data was collected using an online questionnaire supplemented by Key Informant Interviews conducted through mobile phones. Quantitative data was analysed by SPSS and qualitative data was analysed thematically. Findings show that extension agents have sufficient knowledge and positive attitude that would enable them to perform their work effectively. However, the knowledge and positive attitude have not been translated into practice. Limited access to retooling training was the major obstacle limiting extension agents perform their roles effectively. For farmers to become competitive in the global market, the study recommends retooling training on marketing and market linkage to be offered to field extension agents.
Unleashing the power of agricultural data: insights from tanzania's digitalization of routine data system
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Kahamba, J. S.; Martin, R.
Across Africa, including Tanzania, numerous countries have embraced digitalization in their agricultural information systems to harness the benefits of improved efficiency and productivity. The adopted systems can be grouped into two main categories: those aiming to improve farmers’ productivity and efficiencies and those aiming to improve organizational administrative efficiencies. While the former has received significant scholarly attention, the latter has not been fully investigated. Thus, using the case of the Agricultural Routine Data System (ARDS), this paper analyzes the system’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (SWOT) for effective designing of digital agricultural information systems. A survey of 30 agricultural extension agents working at ward and village levels was conducted. Additional data were collected through a documentary review of grey literature about ARDS and in-depth interviews with six key informants. It was found that ARDS is a robust system that captures essential agricultural information though it is challenged by combining information for crops and livestock. The study concludes that the adoption of ICT has great potential to increase food production and farmers’ income by optimizing agricultural production and enabling informed decision-making enhanced by quality data. To improve the performance, the study recommends training to be offered to frontline extension agents on how to collect quality data, exclude livestock information from the system and digitalize the system at the village and ward levels.
Factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst smallholder farmers in Singida Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Humphrey, S. C.; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
Groundnut is amongst the global important food and cash crops; irrespective of its importance, studies report its low adoption. Amongst the reported adoption factors were age, gender, education, group membership and seed availability. Nevertheless, there is insufficient documentation on the influence of these factors on the adoption of groundnut amongst beneficiaries of Singida Rural Farmer Research Networks (FRNs). Innovation systems, networks and Roger’s theories of diffusion of innovations guided this study to establish the determinants of the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars amongst these target groups. Specifically, the study (1) assessed the adoption of improved groundnuts in relation to farmers’ socio-economic characteristics; (2) determined the factors that influenced the adoption of improved groundnuts and (3) examined farmers’ adoption perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Cross-sectional design and mixed research methods were used. The socioeconomic characteristics of farmers were compared using Chi-square test cross-tabulations. The binary logistic regression model was used to determine factors influencing the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. A Likert scale was used to assess the farmers’ perceptions towards the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars in relation to access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment. Findings show that socioeconomic characteristics such as age, sex, marital status, education level and income had no significant influence on the adoption of improved groundnuts. The adoption of improved groundnuts was significantly influenced by three factors: FRN group membership, seed accessibility and technological characteristics which include adaptive to agroecological zones, high yields, early maturity, drought tolerance, pests and disease resistance. The majority of farmers had a positive perception towards access to services, technological characteristics and the institutional environment for the adoption of improved groundnut cultivars. In this regard, sensitization for more farmers to join groups and enhancement of timely seed availability and accessibility of improved groundnut cultivars are recommended.
The synergy of food sovereignty and the politics of malnutrition in tanzania: what works, why and how?
(Journal of Academics Stand Against Poverty, 2024-02-23) Ngowi, Edwin E.; Martin, Respikius
Recent data from Tanzania's National Bureau of Statistics show the alarming extent of malnutrition: 35% of under-five children classified as stunted and 15% as underweight, demanding urgent intervention. This paper investigates the synergy between food sovereignty and politics of malnutrition in Tanzania, examining mechanisms, effectiveness, and strategies. It asserts that the interplay between food sovereignty and politics of malnutrition drives socio-economic progress and food security. Using a case study approach, the paper evaluates scalable food sovereignty projects in Tanzania. Interviews with stakeholders, including officials, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and experts, offered insights into the complex relationship. The paper explores “food sovereignty” theory alignment with case studies (the What), rationale for realizing the right-to-food in Tanzania (the Why), and operationalizing policies amid the “politics of malnutrition” (the How). The paper draws on political ecology theory by Bryant and Bailey to explore food sovereignty-malnutrition synergy. Findings reveal that successful food sovereignty projects enhance food security and reduce child malnutrition. Factors include agroecological practices, traditional food systems, women and youth engagement, and community resource mobilization, empowering communities and prioritizing nutrition. Food sovereignty proves transformative in Tanzania and similar contexts, yet structural/political changes are vital to challenging industrial agriculture and global markets. In general, the success of food sovereignty projects in addressing malnutrition in Tanzania illustrates the potential of food sovereignty as a transformative approach to addressing food insecurity and malnutrition. However, achieving food sovereignty requires challenging the dominance of industrial agriculture and global food markets.
Rural women's participation in managing aflatoxin contamination in the groundnut postharvest value chain in chemba district, Tanzania
(European Journal of Nutrition & Food Safety, 2024-05-24) Komba, Robert; Mwaseba, Dismas; Martin, Respikius
Aims: This study sought to determine the extent of rural women's participation in managing aflatoxin contamination in the groundnut postharvest value chain. Study Design: The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods research design involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in the Chemba District in Dodoma Region, Tanzania situated at the coordinates 05°14′ 34′′ S latitude and 35°53′ 24′′ E longitude, respectively. Methodology: The primary data for the study were obtained from a random sample of 137 female groundnut farmers residing in twelve (12) villages from eight (08) wards in Chemba District. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data, while an FGD guide, checklist, and participant observation were employed to obtain qualitative data. Results: The findings show that women groundnut farmers participate partly in various aflatoxins- related project activities in decision making (50.36%), implementation (44.52%), benefits (59.85%), and evaluation (51.09%). Moreover, the findings of the study show that women participate in groundnut postharvest activities involving cleaning, drying, grading, sorting, processing, packing, storage, and marketing. However, the study shows that women’s participation in groundnut postharvest activities for managing aflatoxin is low. The findings also indicate that there is no statistically significant association between women's involvement in aflatoxin management and their age (χ2 = 7.800, P = 0.099), years of engagement in agriculture (χ2 = 3.556, P = 0.469), and farm size (χ2 = 2.004, P = 0.735). Additionally, a statistically significant association was observed between women's participation in managing aflatoxin and their level of education (χ2 = 12.650, P = 0.013*), as well as their marital status (χ2 = 27.550, P = 0.000***). Conclusion: The study found that rural women's participation in managing aflatoxin contamination in the groundnut postharvest value chain is critical. Hence, this study recommends developing strategies and initiatives targeting and supporting women's participation in managing aflatoxin contamination in the groundnut postharvest value chain.
Climate vulnerability of agroecological and conventional smallholders in Mvomero district, Tanzania: using mixed-methods to uncover local experiences and motivations of farming for the future
(Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2024-07-16) Johansson, Emma; Martin, Respikius; Mapunda, Kenneth
Changing rainfall patterns make farmers increasingly vulnerable to crop failure, income loss and food insecurity. Agroecology is proposed to reduce climate vulnerabilities of farmers, as such practices and social movement aim to create more resilient farm and food systems. It is however fairly unknown if, and to what extent, agroecological farmers are better able to cope with climate induced exposures as compared to conventional smallholders. We conducted 194 surveys with agroecological and conventional smallholders to explore the three components of climate vulnerability: exposure, sensitivity and adaptive capacity. We combined this with field observations and interviews, and an analysis of long- term rainfall data. We also followed up the initial survey analysis with additional focus group discussions. Just as climate change occurs incrementally over time, we highlight modest, yet important differences between conventional and agroecological farmers. We find that agroecological farmers are less vulnerable to short-term dry spells, due to a combination of farming practices that improve soil water retention, like mulching and the use of cover crops. However, the use of botanicals might induce new vulnerabilities, as their processing requires additional labor, and sometimes expenditures, and may not protect the crops from pests and diseases. We also find limitations to agroecology in terms of scale, as most farmers are unable to use botanicals on all their farmland. Yet, agroecological farmers process and apply botanicals for health benefits both in production and consumption of foods, and they can occasionally sell their organic farm products for a higher price than conventional famers. With this study, we emphasize that farmers’ reasons to practice agroecology is not just to boost productivity and become more climate resilient, but rather for improving the long-term health of producers, consumers, soils and the environment.
Enhancing sustainability of university-based outreach activities through participatory action research: the case of Sokoine University of Agriculture
(International Journal of Agricultural Extension, 2024-08-20) Busindeli, Innocent M.; Martin, Respikius; Kalungwizi, Vituce J.
Universities worldwide are mandated for training, research, consultancy and outreach. To ensure that they are responsive to community’s needs, as part of corporate social responsibility, Universities carry out outreach activities and engage with rural communities. However, many universities' outreach activities in rural communities face the challenge of sustainability. In addressing sustainability, Participatory Action Research (PAR) has proved to foster collaboration and meaningful engagements for community transformation. This is because using PAR to seek solutions to problems facing society and, simultaneously, meeting outreach goals fosters sustainability. In this paper, we use the Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) as a case to report findings on achievements, challenges and critical lessons learned from selected outreach projects that used PAR interventional strategy. We collected primary data from community members based on our involvement in selected projects. We employed focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect primary data. These data were compiled and shared during feedback meetings and dialogue conferences. In addition, secondary data collected include information obtained from literature review, project reports and researchers’ field notes. Data were analyzed by thematic analysis procedure. Our experiences and results indicate that PAR interventional strategy sustained the University’s outreach activities, enhanced the University-community linkage and transformed rural communities in different ways, ranging from individual, economic and organisational empowerment. In addition, PAR fostered researcher-farmer interactions and collaboration among partners and actors. Critical lessons learned include long-term commitment to work with rural communities is necessary to build mutual trust and strong partnerships; communities perceive researchers as “outsiders” who have abilities and resources for addressing their felt needs and problems and PAR is limited by institutional set-up. However, frequent interactions and close involvement of stakeholders in project implementation guaranteed success.
Competences of agricultural extension agents in dissemination of climate change adaptation strategies in Misungwi district, Tanzania
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2025-03-28) Samweli, Sagire Nelson; Martin, R.; Ntumva, M.
This paper assessed the awareness and competencies of extension agents regarding climate change in Tanzania, utilizing questionnaires from 64 agents and analysing data through descriptive statistics. Results indicated a high knowledge level, with an overall mean score of 6.36; 70.3% identified drought and extreme weather as significant climate change effects, and 82.8% recognized soil conservation as vital for adaptation. However, knowledge gaps were noted in crop diversification (53.1%) and climate-resilient crop varieties (46.9%). Skills assessment yielded a mean score of 6.8, with 70.3% competent in recommending mulching and drip irrigation, and 75.0% guiding farmers in organic farming. Attitudes towards climate adaptation were generally positive, with a mean score of 3.97; 73.5% valued continuous learning. Yet, practice inconsistencies emerged, as only 23.4% frequently recommended climate-resilient practices and 37.5% regularly implemented innovative solutions. Institutional support was inadequate, with the highest support observed in policy availability (54.7%), while the lowest was in digital tool provision, as none of the extension agents (100%) had access to such resources. The findings suggest that enhanced training, improved communication, and better resource allocation are essential for strengthening extension agents' roles in aiding farmers' climate change adaptation in Tanzania.
Navigating grassroots innovation journey in Tanzania: factors shaping innovation
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2025-03-17) Mdee, Norah; Msuya, Catherine; Busindeli, Innocent; Martin, Respikius
Grassroots innovation is increasingly recognized for its potential to address localized challenges and promote sustainable development. This study addressed the factors influencing grassroots innovation journeys in Tanzania, utilizing PESTLE and SWOT analysis frameworks. A cross- sectional design was used to collect qualitative data guided by a semi-structured questionnaire from 35 grassroots innovators. 16 innovators were purposively selected from the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) innovators database, 11 were purposively selected from Mashindano ya Kitaifa ya Sayansi, Teknolojia na Ubunifu (MAKISATU) databases and 8 innovators were purposively selected from 2020, 2021 and 2022 and participants in the 45 th and 46th Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair Exhibition (SABASABA) in 2021 and 2022. Key informant interviews and observations supplemented the collected data, identifying different prototypes according to the stages of innovation. Innovators were selected from 11 sectors: Agriculture, Information and Communication Technology, Environment, Energy, Engineering, Education, Health, Security, Transport, Industrial and Water. The findings highlight the critical role of political support, economic stability, technological access and community engagement in fostering successful grassroots innovation journeys. The study offers policy recommendations to enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of grassroots innovation initiatives in Tanzania. Emphasizing the need for stable funding, robust legal frameworks and holistic approach to address multifaceted challenges. This includes policy reforms, economic incentives, societal attitude shifts, technological support, legal clarity and infrastructural improvements. By tackling these issues comprehensively, Tanzania can create a more vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem, unlocking the potential of its innovators to drive sustainable development and economic growth.
Women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management interventions in Chemba district, Tanzania
(Social Science and Humanities Journal, 2025-02-17) Komba, Robert Flavian; Mwaseba, Dismas Lyegendili; Martin, Respikius
This study examined the nature of women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management interventions in Chemba District in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods research design involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Data were collected using a survey of 137 women groundnut farmers. Also, qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Specifically, 66.5% of women respondents were involved in the aflatoxin management interventions currently being implemented in the study area, while 33.5% reported no participation in such interventions. Also, the findings show that the recent TANIPAC project interventions were perceived positively to bring anticipated positive economic changes and lessen aflatoxin contamination in the food system. Overall, women's participation in interventions is crucial for effectively managing aflatoxin and reducing contamination within the food system.
Perceptions of innovation system stakeholders towards grassroots innovators in Tanzania
(African Journal of Social Issues, 2025) Mdee, Norah; Msuya, Catherine; Busindeli, Innocent; Martin, Respikius
This study explores the perceptions of various stakeholders toward grassroots innovators in Tanzania and how these views shape the innovation ecosystem. Stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector actors, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and international donors, influence the grassroots innovation journey through their support, policies, and funding mechanisms. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected from 35 grassroots innovators through semi-structured questionnaire, key informant interviews, and observations. Innovators were selected from the COSTECH database, Mashindano ya Kitaifa ya Sayansi, Teknolojia na Ubunifu (MAKISATU) records, and participants in the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair Exhibition (SABASABA). The findings indicate that while institutions such as the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST) and COSTECH are seen as crucial for policy support, bureaucratic delays and budget constraints limit their effectiveness. Meanwhile, organizations such as the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO), National Institute of Transport (NIT), and Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) are perceived as more accessible and hands-on in supporting grassroots innovators. However, challenges persist in aligning private sector and international donor support with grassroots needs due to issues of trust and mismatched priorities. The study underscores the importance of addressing these perceptions to enhance stakeholder engagement, improve resource distribution and foster a more inclusive innovation ecosystem
Stakeholders dynamics in the grassroots innovation journey in Tanzania: a swot analysis
(International Journal of Development and Management Review, 2025) Mdee, Norah; Msuya, Catherine; Busindeli, Innocent; Martin, Respikius
The study analyzes the roles of various stakeholders in Tanzania’s grassroots innovation journey using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. The study examines key actors, including government agencies, private sector organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), international donors and grassroots innovators to assess their impact on the innovation ecosystem. A cross-sectional design was employed to collect qualitative data from 35 grassroots innovators, selected through purposive sampling from sources such as the Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) database, Mashindano ya Kitaifa ya Sayansi, Teknolojia na Ubunifu (MAKISATU) records, and participants in the Dar es Salaam International Trade Fair Exhibition (SABASABA). Data were gathered through semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and observations. The SWOT analysis reveals that stakeholders such as the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST) and COSTECH provide crucial policy and funding support but face challenges like bureaucratic delays and budget constraints. Other institutions, including the Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA), Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO), National Institute of Transport (NIT) and Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) are recognized for their role in incubating grassroots innovations. The private sector and international donors contribute financial and technical support, yet issues related to trust and alignment with grassroots needs hinder their effectiveness. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced collaboration, improved coordination and streamlined administrative processes to strengthen stakeholder involvement in grassroots innovation.
The role of farmer field and business school (FFBS) in improving access to agricultural extension services to smallholder farmers in iringa rural district, Tanzania
(Asian Journal of Agricultural Extension, Economics & Sociology, 2025-04-10) Wilson, Samuel Talawaly; Martin, Respikius; Madaha, Rasel
Innovative and holistic approaches, such as the Farmers Field and Business School (FFBS), are essential for advancing agricultural practices and improving smallholder farmer livelihoods. In Tanzania, while evidence suggests that FFBS enhances access to extension services, its specific role remains undocumented. This study used an exploratory sequential mixed method to explore FFBS's role in improving smallholder farmers' access to extension services. The study involved 43 FFBS beneficiaries from CARE International’s FFBS scale-up project, selected through snowball sampling until data were saturated. This approach was chosen due to the challenges of accessing a comprehensive list of active participants and of ensuring that diverse perspectives are included. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), document review, and observation. Findings suggest that FFBS significantly enhances access to extension services through capacity-building in agronomy, climate resilience through sustainable agricultural practices, market linkages, gender empowerment, and information dissemination. The FFBS programme utilizes innovative experiential learning techniques, including hands-on training in sustainable agricultural practices, to equip farmers with practical knowledge and skills. Despite the positive outcomes, FFBS has not fully facilitated the transition of smallholder farming into large-scale commercial agriculture, highlighting challenges in scaling up production. The study suggests that all FFBS elements need to be fully applied to realize their innovative benefits. Policy implications include the need to improve resource access, particularly capital, technology, and markets for smallholder farmers, integrate FFBS into national extension programs, and promote gender-inclusive capacity-building to scale up agricultural productivity and sustainability.

Browse

Recent Submissions