Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Collection

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Adoption of improved technologies for sorghum and pearl millet production in Dodoma region in central Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Mwanga, Judicate Naftal Wangael
A study on adoption of improved technologies for product ion of sorghum and pearl millet was conducted in Dodoma region in Tanzania. A two stage cross sectional research design was adopted for data collection. A stoictured questionnaire was administered to a random sample of 240 fanners. The results shows that 88% of sampled household heads were aware of improved sorghum and 48% were aware of improved pearl millets varieties. About 49%, 36%, and 4% of sampled sorghum farmers were growing Pato, Tegemeo, and Macia respectively. Only 10% of pearl millet fanners were growing Okoa. Results fiom logistic curve estimation showed that the annual rate of adoption for improved sorghum varieties was 0.56, 0.79 and 0.53 for Pato, Tegemeo and Macia respectively. Okoa was adopted at an annual rate of 0.46. Adopters of Pato were characterized by being younger, with lower fanning experience and had more years in formal school compared to non-adopters. Adopters had more number of livestock, larger farm size and more non-livestock wealth value than non-adopters. M
Assessment of farmers' access to quality maize seed in improving rural livelihoods: a case study of southern highlands of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2004) Peter, Nickson Elia
The purpose of this study was to identify lhe current livelihood strategics used by farmers in improving their access to good quality maize seed and livelihoods in general particularly a Her market liberalization of 1990s in Tanzania. Specifically the study aimed al analysing: the role of maize in the study area and the Victors affccling fanners' access lo improved maize seed, how fanners managed seed, fanners' knowledge, perception and practices on maize secd/crop. The study was conducted in Mponcla, Ibembwa, Mangawe and Ihimbo villages. The villages are among sixteen villages under the Southern Highlands Maize Promotion Project. Focus group discussions, informal discussions with individual fanners and questionnaire interviews were used to collect data. Major tool of analysis was descriptive statistics including cross tabs, means, percentages and frequencies. Logit regression model was used to asses the factors that affect (armers, access to improved maize seed. Results of the study have shown that maize is an imporlant crop in the SHZ used to meet food and cash needs. Both local and improved maize seed arc important in lhe production of maize in the study area. However, observation shows that local maize seed are more cultivated than improved. Farmers perceive local maize the most reliable source of food while iniproved varieties are perceived good (or marketing. Regression analysis results indicated that gender and the distances traveled to acquire the improved maize seed significantly (p<0.05) fanners' access to those seed. Among other factors high prices of improved seed and the associated inputs make them less applied. This implies that although liberalization has increased supply oT improved maize varieties it has not supplied the varieties, which satisfactorily meet lanners' need. This observation suggests that more eflbrts are needed such as increasing the budget share to increase the capacity of National Breeding Program so that it meets successfully the needs of farmers. The study recommends that there is a need lo the breeding programs should come up with maize seed varieties that meet (bod and cash needs. Similarly it was observed that farmers' local knowledge was the most reliable source o「information for seed management. Fanners perceived local knowledge inadequate I or seed management particularly management of improved varieties. It is rcconuncndcd that more trainings of farmers are needed for improving fanners' knowledge of seed management. There is a need also to improve farmers' seed and maize sioragc slruclurcs by supplying them with modern equipment to reduce post harvest losses.
Assessment of consumer's willingness to pay for rice attributes in Morogoro municipality
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Shayo, Haikalaura Nicholas
The exact attributes which consumers are looking for and willingness to pay (WTP) in both cooked and uncooked rice and the value comparison between imported and local rice is unknown. For this reason this study was conducted with the goal of assessing consumer's WTP for rice attributes in Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were to analyze consumer willingness to pay for different rice attributes of raw rice and cooked rice and to compare the preference of imported rice versus local rice in terms of sensory characteristics. The research was based on a survey of rice consumers in Morogoro municipal. Sensory test together with a consumer survey of 100 randomly selected respondents were conducted from February to March 2013, using a structured questionnaire. Double bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation methodology (CVM) was employed to elicit consumers WTP information. From the analysis rice attributes such as appearance of uncooked rice, aroma, taste of cooking, price and location affect the choices of rice brands available in the market. The results also indicate marital status, income level, occupational status, gender of head and household number to have significant influence on consumer's WTP decisions. The m^ority of the consumers however prefer to purchase local aromatic rice instead of the imported brands from Asia. Consumers were loyal to local rice specifically rice from Mbeya, and source of origin of rice is the major criteria in selecting what type of rice to purchase. The results pointed to the needs of producing high quality local rice and to sort, pack and label the product according to source of origin of rice and usage. Generally the pricing and marketing strategies of rice should be improved following the basis provided in this study.
Assessment of farmers' access to quality maize seed in improving rural livelihoods: a case study of southern highlands of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2004) Peter, Nickson Elia
The purpose of this study was to identify lhe current livelihood strategics used by farmers in improving their access to good quality maize seed and livelihoods in general particularly a Her market liberalization of 1990s in Tanzania. Specifically the study aimed al analysing: the role of maize in the study area and the Victors affccling fanners' access lo improved maize seed, how fanners managed seed, fanners' knowledge, perception and practices on maize secd/crop. The study was conducted in Mponcla, Ibembwa, Mangawe and Ihimbo villages. The villages are among sixteen villages under the Southern Highlands Maize Promotion Project. Focus group discussions, informal discussions with individual fanners and questionnaire interviews were used to collect data. Major tool of analysis was descriptive statistics including cross tabs, means, percentages and frequencies. Logit regression model was used to asses the factors that affect (armers, access to improved maize seed. Results of the study have shown that maize is an imporlant crop in the SHZ used to meet food and cash needs. Both local and improved maize seed arc important in lhe production of maize in the study area. However, observation shows that local maize seed are more cultivated than improved. Farmers perceive local maize the most reliable source of food while iniproved varieties are perceived good (or marketing. Regression analysis results indicated that gender and the distances traveled to acquire the improved maize seed significantly (p<0.05) fanners' access to those seed. Among other factors high prices of improved seed and the associated inputs make them less applied. This implies that although liberalization has increased supply oT improved maize varieties it has not supplied the varieties, which satisfactorily meet lanners' need. This observation suggests that more eflbrts are needed such as increasing the budget share to increase the capacity of National Breeding Program so that it meets successfully the needs of farmers. The study recommends that there is a need lo I the breeding programs should come up with maize seed varieties that meet (bod and cash needs. Similarly it was observed that farmers' local knowledge was the most reliable source o「information for seed management. Fanners perceived local knowledge inadequate I or seed management particularly management of improved varieties. It is rcconuncndcd that more trainings of farmers are needed for improving fanners' knowledge of seed management. There is a need also to improve farmers' seed and maize sioragc slruclurcs by supplying them with modern equipment to reduce post harvest losses.
An estimation of technical efficiency in Tanzanian sugarcane production: a case study of Mtibwa sugar estate outgrowers scheme
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) Msuya, Elibariki Emmanuel
This study describes the technical efficiency of sugarcane production and the factors affecting this efficiency. The study was conducted in Turiani Division, Mvomero District, Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Specifically, the study determined and compared the level of technical efficiency of outgrower and non-outgrower farmers, and examined the relationship between levels of efficiency and various specific factors. A cross sectional single-visit survey that included randomly selected representative samples of 69 outgrower feimers and a cohort of 71 non-outgrower formers residing in the area surrounding the Mtibwa Sugar Estate (MSE) was conducted during October and November 2002. A pre-tested questionnaire was used to interview the farmers. To estimate technical efficiency analysis was done using a (FRONTIER Version 4.1) computer program for stochastic frontier production and cost function estimation developed by Coelli, (1996). Technical efficiency was estimated using the Cobb- Douglas production frontier assumed to have a truncated normal distribution. The results of the estimation showed that there were significant positive relationships between age, education, and experience with technical efficiency. Based on the findings, the study puts forward three major recommendations: First, pairing less experienced &nners with more experienced farmers, perhaps in some form of apprenticeship, would enhance the rapid exchange of experience and information. Second, new forms of information delivery need to be applied. Finally the possibility of encouraging collective sugar processing among private cane producers need to be explored. These measures could significantly improve the overall technical efficiency of outgrowers.
A comparative economic analysis of specialty and conventional small-scale coffee production in Kigoma district, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2009) Rutaba, Ernest Peter
This study was conducted in Kigoma district of Kigoma region to compare the economics of specialty and conventional small-scale coffee production. Four villages namely Kalinzi, Nyarubanda, Mkabogo and Mkongoro were surveyed. Random sampling technique was adopted to get 30 respondents from each selected village. This means 10 households for specialty and 20 for conventional coffee farming, making a total sample size of 120 household. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the sample households and complimented by secondarj- data collected from key organisations in the industry. Data were cleaned, coded, entered and analysed using the Statistical Package fbr Social Sciences (SPSS) version 11.5 and Excel programs. Descriptive statistics, regression analysis, gross margin and independent sample t-test were used to analyse the data. The results showed that coffee growers in Kigoma District have household characteristics common to most rural household settings elsewhere in Tanzania. Results from regression analysis indicate that amount of coffee sold and total cost used in both specialty and conventional coffee production influenced producer profitability significantly. From independent sample t-test, the results indicate the gross margin fbr specialty coffee was higher than fbr conventional coffee by about TZS 753 per coffee tree at 5% level of significance. The emperical results comfirm that specialty coffee farming improve farmers income than their counterpart conventional farmers thereby contributing more to poverty reduction in the study area. From these findings, it is recommended that deliberate efforts be made to assist more farmers to grow specials coffee. This could be achieved through farm input subsidies, access to international and local markets, improvement in coffee marketing information system and sources of low cost credit. In addition, construction of village based central pulperies could be considered. In this way. producers could get belter price that contribute significantly to poverty reduction.
Composition, structure and diversity of homegardens and implications on livelihoods in Moshi rural district Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Samagwa, Dafrozah
This study assessed the composition, structure and diversity of agro forestry homegardens and implications on the livelihoods of the local communities in Moshi Rural District in 'Kilimanjaro Region. Purposive sampling was used to select three villages which arc Msuni, Rau and Chekereni Weruweru from highland, midland and lowland agro- ecological zones respectively. Primary data were collected using village surveys, on farm inventories, household interviews and focused group discussions. Data analyses was done using SPSS and excel softwares. The results revealed that there are five agrofbrestry systems practiced in the homegardens of the surveyed villages with Agrosilvopasture being the most widely practiced system followed by Agrosilvicultural, Agroaposilvipastoral, Agroaposilvicultural and Agroaquosilvopastoral. The technologies practiced in agrofbrestiy homegardens are mixed intercropping, live fence and boundary planting. Agrofbrestiy homegardens comprised of herbaceous crops, livestock, insects and fish under various interactions with woody perennials. There were 85 plant species comprised of 61 woody perennials and 24 herbaceous crops. The most dominant trees based on basal area are Grevillea robusta, Albizia schimperiana. Persea americana and Manginifera indica. A few additional crops have been introduced in the homegardens with increasing time including Manihot esculenta, Vigna imgiiiculata and Cajanus cajan due to their capacity to withstand drought. The production of different crops is said to have decreased in such a way that only 62.5% of the respondents currently meeting their annual household food requirements from their farms. A more diversified homegarden is needed so as to reduce dependence on the currently herbaceous crop and woody perennial based products only. Adoption of agrofbrestry technologies that can prevent soil erosion and capable of providing more nutritious rich leguminous leaves for ruminant animals are important. Alternative sources of household energy need to be sought to reduce dependency on fuelwood and promote the adoption of drought tolerant plants.
Diversity of common bean (phaseolus vulgaris l.) varieties in iron and zinc contents from collections in major bean growing areas of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Tryphone, George Muhamba
Two experiments were conducted to determine the diversity of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) varieties in Fe and Zn contents. In total, 90 varieties were collected from major bean growing Regions of Tanzania. Twenty varieties were randomly selected for field experiment, while all 90 varieties were used for screen house experiment at SUA. In the screen house experiment, a Completely Randomized Design with three replications was used. The field experiment was conducted at SUA-Morogoro and Madiira-Arusha. A randomized complete block design with 20 varieties replicated three times. Seeds and leaves from both experiments were collected, dried, ground and the powder was used for Fe and Zn determination. Variation in Fe and Zn contents was observed among varieties in both seeds and leaves, and the best varieties were identified. Results have shown a positive and highly significant (P<0.001) correlation between leaves and seeds Fe and Zn, suggesting that genetic factors for increasing Fe are co-segregating with genetic factors for increasing Zn. Levels of Fe and Zn concentration among varieties at two sites was very different emphasizing the effect of both the environment and genotype. However, Leaves of the studied varieties have shown to have above average Fe and Zn contents thus forming a good source of the micronutrients in areas where bean leaves are consumed as vegetables. From this study, it is recommended that varieties that were found having high amount of Fe and Zn be used as a gene source in future breeding work, meanwhile, farmers should use those varieties for consumption and production.
Institutional arrangements for specialty coffee: a case of Hai and Moshi rural districts, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2009) Kessy, Radegunda Francis
This study aimed at assessing the institutional arrangements for specialty coffee in Hai and Moshi Rural districts in terms of marketing performance. The specific objectives were to; describe the existing institutional arrangements in the study area, affecting yield of coffee, investigate factors examine factors influencing coffee farmers' decision to participate in specialty coffee market and assess factors affecting the degree of coffee farmers’ participation in specialty coffee market. Purposive, stratified and random sampling techniques were employed in data collection using structured questionnaires which was also supplemented by focus group discussions and field observations. About 250 coffee farmers were interviewed. Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression analysis and probit analysis were used to analyse the data. Results showed that higher price and payment assurance were very important in influencing the institutional arrangement preferences by farmers. Income, tree density, delivery cost, labour, farmer training and age of coffee tree were statistically significant in influencing the yield of coffee. Investment cost was found to influence both yield and decision of farmers’ participation in specialty coffee market. Other factors which were significant in determining coffee farmers’ participation in specialty coffee market were technical assistance and market competition. Premium price, membership in group and transaction cost were significant in determining the decision to participate in specialty coffee market as well as the degree of participation. Further more, age of the household head, education and payment arrangements were also important in determining the degree of coffee farmers’ participation in specialty coffee market. Recommendations put forward include; policy reinforcement to ensure enforceable contracts, supporting the establishment of input procurement system, designing mechanism of transportation of cherries from farms to the CPUs and facilitation of formation of FBGs in other crops to provide similar services to improve farmers’ livelihood.
Constraints affecting oil seed crops production and marketing in Tanzania: a case study of sunflower in Iramba Dstrict.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1998) Madadi, Mussa Martin
The study attempts to investigate the constraints facing the oil seed crops production and marketing with special emphasis on sunflower. The specific objectives of the study were to investigate factors limiting sunflower production and marketing, to describe the marketing channels and the roles of institutions involved in marketing of sunflower, to assess the relative net returns of crops enterprises competing with sunflower for resource use in the district. Eleven sampled villages in Iramba district were selected based on differences of climate, transport problems, and accesibility to sunflower markets. From these villages, 110 farmers were selected as a source of primary data. In addition, 20 sunflower traders and 20 oil millers were also selected for primary data in the surveyed area. Secondary data were collected from Singida regional and Iramba district agricultural offices, Tanzania Food Nutrition Centre (TFNC), Institute of Production Innovation (IPI), Marketing Development Bureau (MDB), Agricultural Research Institute - Ilonga, Sokoine National Agricultural library, and Library of University of Dar es Salaam. Descriptive, gross and market margins, regression and probit analyses were used to analyse the data. Survey results revealed that there were a number of constraints to sunflower production and marketing. The most significant constraints identified were poor marketing arrangements and low price of sunflower produce. It was found out that there were mainly six marketing channels of sunflower in the study area. The study showed that competing crops for resource use was not a factor limiting sunflower production and marketing. In this study, the following recommendations were made: (1) Effective extension services should be in place to enable farmers improve crop husbandry practices. (2) Policies to induce the establishment of an econofoically viable credit system for agricultural inputs need to be designed and given to fanners. (3) Improvements in the marketing system in terms of prices and participants in sunflower marketing is needed. (4) A massive investment in roads, storage, processing and other rural infrastructure facilities is required.
Evaluation of Kilombero estate soils with respect to their potential and constraints to sugarcane production
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1996) Kunda, Andrew Mathew Yohane
A study was carried out in Kilombero Sugar Estate in to order sugarcane determine soil the production. This which limit through soil constraints was done characterization and evaluation of fertility status of the soils. Soil characterization was based on morphological, physical, chemical and mineralogical properties. In addition, soil and sugarcane leaf samples were sampled from 16 cane fields under second ratoon crop and analysed for N, P, K. Ca, Mg, Fe, Zn, Mn and Cu. uptake by sugarcane was also carried out Nutrient from field fertilizer trials. A soil morphology study revealed that the cultivated soils in section 1 to 3 are young (AC) profiles, very deep alluvial deposits. The virgin soils showed relatively more advanced profile development (ABC profile) when compared to the cultivated soils. Generally, soils were kaolinite, illite, of mixed clay mineralogy with smectite and goethite in varying proportions. Total nitrogen in all soils was low (0.08 to 0.15%) and therefore a limiting factor for sugarcane production Poor soil aeration, poor drainage and flooding effects limit sugarcane production in sections 2 and 3. Exchangeable K in soils ranged from 0.52 to 2.68 cmol(+)/kg (very high). Exchangeable Mg ranged from mediumii to high (1.53 to 6.22 cmol(+)/kg) while exchangeable Ca was low to medium (2.99 to 7.02 cmol(+)/kg). Available P was very low to medium (2.18 to 18.2 mg/kg). DTPA extractable micronutrients are in good supply Mean values in topsoils are: Zn, 1.13 mg/kg; Mn, 28.9 mg/kg; and Fe, 131.0 mg/kg. The cultivated soils of sections 1, classified as Eutric Fluvisol (KLP3), and 3 were 2, Mollie Fluvisol (KLP1) and Mollie Gleysol (KLP2) respectively according to FAO-UNESCO (KLP4) system of classification. The was classified as Eutric Cambisol. virgin soil According to USDA Soil Taxonomy, the soils were classified as follows: Section 1, Typic Ustifluvent; section 2, Typic Haplaquoll; section 3, Fluventic Haplaquoll; and the virgin soil as Typic Tropaquept. Field fertilizer trials indicated that different levels of NPK applied in the soil did not affect nutrient uptake by sugarcane to significant level. These results were expected as there were appreciable amounts of native P and K in these soils, and synergism effect among the nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Irrigation and underground water was found to be of good quality.
Analysis of crop production in improved irrigation schemes: a case of Mwega Malolo scheme in Kilosa district, Morogoro
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kitoeloh, Julius Daud
About 80% of arable land in developing countries is susceptible to drought. This is mainly due to inadequate and erratic rainfall. Consequently irrigated agriculture is the only viable option to ensure food security and reduction of poverty in developing countries. Tanzania has 4.8 million ha of land with high potential for irrigation. Despite the large area with high potential for irrigation only 227 486 ha (about only 4.7%) are currently under irrigation. The low proportion of land which is currently under irrigation makes it crucial to use the irrigated land efficiently. Thus the present study is amongst others, an attempt to establish the best way to utilize the irrigated land in Mwega Malolo irrigation scheme in Kilosa District. Data for the present study were collected from 120 farmers who were randomly selected from Mgogozi, Malolo A and B villages. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data were analyzed by using Microsoft Excel, LP Wye Computer programmes and Regression. The results show lower yields caused by improper resource allocation, low use of inputs, lack of credit services, storage facilities, and poor extension services. Optimal plan for Mwega Malolo irrigation scheme resulted with the maximum net revenue of Tshs 336 501 384 which is an increase of about 22% compared to total revenue of Tshs 261 210 609 of the current plan. The results of the present study make it plausible to recommend improvement in the allocation of the land in order to maximize the returns for the scheme. In addition to proper allocation of land and other resources, improving extension services using farmer to farmer extension approach (FFS) and demonstrations is also important. The use of inputs, improved equipments and tools, storage structures, and strengthening CHAUMWE for management of the scheme are also necessary for improving revenue and the living standard of the farmers in the study area and similar schemes in other parts of the country.
Evaluation of soil salinity problems associated with sugarcane production under irrigation at Tanganyika Planting Company (TPC) estates, Moshi
(Sokoine Univesirty of Agriculture, 1999) Kiwale, Antery Antony
In Tanzania the problem of salinity and sodicity is common and widespread especially in irrigation schemes, the Tanganyika Planting Company Ltd in Arusha Chini- Moshi (TPC) being one of them. A detailed study was carried out to investigate the distribution, origin and characteristics of salt affected soils in TPC. The objectives were to categorize the soils in terms of the salinity problem; to investigate the sources of salt accumulation and asses the quality of irrigation and underground waters in the study area. A preliminary survey of the irrigated fields was done and experimental fields were selected on the basis of the available information, crop growth performance and visual appearance of soil and plants. Soil characterization was based on physical and chemical properties. Detailed laboratory characterization was done on the salt affected soils, irrigation and underground waters. A soil morphology study revealed that the soils are young profiles, of deep alluvial deposits. The soils were classified according to the FAO (1988) soil classification system and found to be Humic Cambisols; Eutric Gleysols and Calcaric Fluvisols in South, North and West areas of TPC respectively.iii The main categories of soils in TPC were observed to be generally: Normal soils in north and west areas; Saline (fields 19A and 2Id) and sodic (80%) soils in South area; Saline sodic soils in field R8 in West area. Kikuletwa river water showed a potential to cause soil salinity with electric conductivity values of 0.95 and 0.48 dS/m in first and second water sampling respectively. Ruvu and Weruweru waters were found to have medium and low salinity levels, values being 0.35,0.16 and 0.07,0. IdS/m respectively. As far as sodium content of water is concerned, all the three rivers were found to have low sodium. Values are 19.71, 11.9 and 3.33mg/kg in Kikuletwa, Ruvu and Weruweru rivers respectively. Other causes of salts in TPC soils were found to be seepage from Kikuletwa river, hig
Effect of genotype x environment interaction on yield performance of cowpea (vigna imguiculata-'l. walp.) in the Lake Zone of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agricuture, 2013) Joachim, Joseph Simuda
Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) (2n=2x=22) is a member of the Phaseolcae tribe of the Lcguminosae family. Cowpea is an important grain legume as well as fodder crop, especially in the dry regions of Africa. The production of this crop has been below average because of low genetic variation and cultivation of poor yielding varieties which have not been improved. Genotype by environment interaction studies were conducted in Misungwi. Bariadi and Maswa locations on ten cowpea genotypes in a randomized complete block design under split plot experiment for grain yield and other growth characters. Significant mean values under combined analysis were observed with their mean range; germination percentage (83.61 to 99.44%). initial plant stand (34 to 40), days to 50% flowering (43 to 62 days) and final plant stand (34 to 40) in which the outstanding performance for the preceding characters was observed on IT99K-1122. Mean number of pods per plant ranged from 6 to 10 pods, whereby, VULI-1, VULI-2, TUMAINI, FAHARI, and IT99K-573-1 had better performance for this character, for the mean number of seeds per pod which ranged from 10 to 16 seeds, the outstanding performance was recorded on VULI-2, Mean weight of 100 seeds ranged from 10.68 to 20.22 g, IT99K-7-21-2-2 had the highest performance for this character. Moreover, the mean grain yield ranged from 1648 to 2379 kg/ha, TUMAINI revealed outstanding performance for this character and the LOCAL VARIETY was the lower performing genotype. Participatory variety selection was done at each location during flowering and at harvest. Farmers identified IT99K-1122 as the best genotype during flowering at Misungwi and Bariadi, while at Maswa IT99K-7-21-2- 2 was recorded as the best. PVS at harvest recorded IT99K-U22, (LOCALiii VARIETY and IT00K-1263), and LOCAL VARIETY for Misungwi, Bariadi, and Maswa respectively. The partial (farm) budget revealed the net income of Tsh 2 537 200/= per hectare of land grown cowpea as the profit made.
The concentration of lead (PB) in industrial effluent, soil, PB adsorption by soil and its uptake by maize
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1995) Assey, Joan Pius
Evaluation of Pb concentrations of the industrial effluent, soil and plant leaves in the vicinity of a Pb- battery industry in Dar es Salaam was studied. Adsorption of Pb by an Oxic Haplustult and its uptake by maize were also studied. Effluent, soil and plant leaves from the Pb-battery industrial compound were found to contain Pb levels of up to 8.97 x 105 pig Pb/g, 1.28 x 104 pig Pb/g and 2.34 x 103 Pb/g respectively, indicating high pollution of the industry premises with Pb, hence a health hazard. .The Pb adsorption isotherm for the Oxic Haplustult was of L-type curve indicating a high affinity for Pb. The adsorption of Pb by an Oxic Haplustult conformed to both Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption plots. The value of b in the Langmuir equation was 1128.7 affinity of Pb. The binding energy Mg/g indicating high (K) for the Langmuir equation was 2.38 ml/gg and the values of the constants n and K for the Freundlich equation were 1.52 respectively.
Assessment of consumer's willingness to pay for rice attributesin Morogoro Municipality
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Shayo, Haikalaura Nicholas
The exact attributes which consumers are looking for and willingness to pay (WTP) in both cooked and uncooked rice and the value comparison between imported and local rice is unknown. For this reason this study was conducted with the goal of assessing consumer's WTP for rice attributes in Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were to analyze consumer willingness to pay fbr different rice attributes of raw rice and cooked rice and to compare the preference of imported rice versus local rice in terms of sensory characteristics. The research was based on a survey of rice consumers in Morogoro municipal. Sensory test together with a consumer survey of 100 randomly selected respondents were conducted from February to March 2013, using a structured questionnaire. Double bounded dichotomous choice contingent valuation methodology (CVM) was employed to elicit consumers WTP information. From the analysis rice attributes such as appearance of uncooked rice, aroma, taste of cooking, price and location affect the choices of rice brands available in the market. The results also indicate marital status, income level, occupational status, gender of head and household number to have significant influence on consumer's WTP decisions. The majority of the consumers however prefer to purchase local aromatic rice instead of the imported brands from Asia. Consumers were loyal to local rice specifically rice from Mbeya, and source of origin of rice is the major criteria in selecting what type of rice to purchase. The results pointed to the needs of producing high quality local rice and to sort, pack and label the product according to source of origin of rice and usage. Generally the pricing and marketing strategies of rice should be improved following the basis provided in this study.
Impact of irrigation farming on income of smallholder farmers in Kilosa district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Alphonce, Paul
This study was carried out in Kilosa District in the 2011/12 crop season. The main objective was to determine the impact of irrigation on household income of smallholder farmers engaged in paddy cultivation. The specific objectives were to evaluate profit margins between irrigators and non-irrigators in the study area, to identify factors influencing profitability of smallholder farmers in the area, and to assess shares from different sources of income to the total household income of smallholder farmers in the study area. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. The findings indicate that the average gross margin per hectare of irrigated paddy was approximately 50% higher than that of rain fed paddy, this has a significant impact on the household income. It was also found that farmers’ plot size, seed types used, plot location (distance) with respect to water source and number of family labour engaged in off-farm activities determined the irrigators’ level of profit. This study found that irrigated paddy production itself shares about 44% of the entire income of farmers in Kilosa District. From the findings of this study it can be concluded that there is a significant difference in profitability on paddy farming between irrigators and non-irrigators. Irrigated paddy mean income was higher than other sources of household income and become the largest income share to the entire household income. Non irrigator’s off-farm income share to household income was higher than that of non-irrigators. From these findings, it is recommended that the government of Tanzania should invest more in irrigation projects and improve the already established irrigation schemes in Kilosa District to promote paddy farming and this will increase food production, farmers’ income and reduce food insecurity rather than depending on rain-fed farming.
Productivity and technical efficiency of egg production in Tanzania under the intensive system: a case study of Ilala and Kibaha districts
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Oleke, Jofrey Masahi
This study examined the productivity and technical efficiency of egg production in Tanzania under the intensive system. The study also attempted to identify the factors constraining egg production. A multistage random sampling procedure was employed for the selection of 80 respondents from two districts; Kibaha and Ilala in the Coastal and Dar es Salaam region respectively. The study used a stochastic frontier production functions in which the technical inefficiency effects are assumed to be functions of some socio-economic characteristics and management practices of the fanner which influence the technical efficiency for eggs production. This study utilizes the most recent development in stochastic frontier modeling by a one-step process in Limdep software. Results show that egg production was in the rational stage of production (stage II) as depicted by the Returns to Scale (RTS) of about 1.3. The variables of interest were effectively allocated and used, as confirmed by each variable having estimated coefficient value between zero and unity. Empirical results indicated that the mean technical efficiency of egg production is 64 percent; however, this ranged from 4 to 90 percent. The family size, employment status, types of heating and lighting equipments, age of the farm attendant, and sex of the household head affect the technical efficiency. The study further found out that the farm technical efficiency is positively related to net profit. In general, the study revealed the existence of considerable economic efficiency in production. However. diseases, lack of credits, high input costs, and improper marketing arrangements are the major constraining factors in egg production. The findings of this study showed that there is the need for governmental and/or private institutions interventions to improve the production and marketing performance of poultry by providing the necessary institutional support to the smallholder farmers in the study areas to improve their efficiency.
Spatial and temporal variability of soil fertility under rainwater harvesting systems: a case study of Makanya river catchment
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2004) Ludovic, Reuben Adolph
A study was conducted to assess the spatial and temporal variability of soil fertility under rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems in three villages along the toposequence on the Makanya river catchment, Same district, Tanzania. The study aimed at assessing the soil fertility status and patterns along the toposequence, mapping spatial patterns of soil fertility under RWH, identifying and determining the nature and magnitude of the factors causing soil fertility changes under RWH systems along the toposequence within the cropping seasons, and assessing spatial and temporal variability of soil fertility within selected fields under RWH systems in Makanya village. Random soil samples were collected from Makanya, Mwembe and Tae villages and were used for the characterization of physical and chemical soil properties on the catchment. Runoff water samples were collected and analysed for plant nutrients in the runoff. GPS and GIS were used for positioning both soil and water sampling points and to establish geospatial information database and generate maps of the study area. Geostatistical analysis was done to carry out soil fertility surface interpolation. Soil fertility management practice data were collected through a questionnaire survey and analysed using SPSS software. The study revealed that, more than 92% of 144 interviewees were practicing RWH systems in the study area. The soil fertility attributes showed that, total nitrogen was very low to medium level (0 - 0.5 %). Soil pH ranged from strongly acid to moderately alkaline. Exchangeable K on the upper zone was very low (0-0.13 cmol(+)/kg) for the majority of samples (62 %), whereas available P was adequate (39.49 - 81.16 mg P /kg soil) only on the lower zone. Fertility attribute maps on the mid and upper zone tended to be systematically distributed following the slope facet, while on the lower zone, maps showed the patterns distribution to follow availability of harvested rainwater. Generally, most of the soils under rainwater harvesting in the area had low fertility status attributable to low organic carbon, total nitrogen and potassium, thus required improvement for high and sustainable crop yields.
Effect of seed desicction and storage on seed vigour and germination in four species of indigenous fruit trees
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Uronu, Ludovick Obed Ndenfoo
A study was conducted for Cordyla africana Lour, C. densiflora Milne.Redh., Strychnos cocculoides Baker and 5. spinosa Lam., in the laboratory, to investigate desiccation tolerance and storage conditions that will maintain high seed vigour and germination. Three experiments were conducted: Initial, desiccation sensitivity and storage trials. For initial and desiccation trial, a Randomized Complete Block Design with four replications was used. For storage trial, a 5 x 4 x 3 factorial experiment with four replications was conducted.actor one was moisture contents at five levels: C. africana (50, 38, 25, 13 and 8%); C. densiflora (54, 41, 27, 14 and 10%); S. cocculoides (43, 32, 22, 11 and 5%) and S. spinosa (41, 31, 21, 10 and 5%). Factor two was storage temperature at four levels, -20, 4, 16 and 25° C and factor three was packaging materials at three levels, polyethylene bags cotton cloth bags and aluminum foil bags. Germination test was conducted after every 2, 4, 8 and 20 weeks. Assessment were done for, daily germination percent, final germination percent, radicle elongation, germination value and germination energy percent. Seed of C. africana and C. densiflora were found to be sensitive to desiccation, seed vigour and viability were substantially reduced after desiccation from 50 to 13% and from 54 to 14% respectively. For S. cocczdoides and S. spinosa seed viability and vigour were not sensitive to desiccation. Storage conditions significantly influenced seed viability and vigour after two weeks of storage. Seeds of C. africana and C. densiflora maintained high final cumulative germination of 90 and 95% and higher radicle elongation of 19 and 42 mm respectively, for seeds stored with their initial moisture content at 16°C in cotton cloth bags. Germination value and germination energy followed the same trend. For 5. cocculoides and S. spinosa seeds were not significantly affected by storage. It is concluded that. Seeds of C. africana and C. densiflora are recalcitrant and those of 5. cocculoides and .S'. spinosa are intermediate. It is recommended that seeds of C. africana and C. densiflora should be stored with moisture content between 25 and 50% and 27 and 54% in cotton cloth bag at 16° C respectively, for period no exceeding eight weeks Seeds of 5. cocculoides and 5. spinosa can be stored for up to 20 weeks in polyethylene bags, with moisture content between 5 and 40% at temperatures of > 4°C but not exceeding 25°C. Further study should be conducted to determine rates of cell membrane disruption during desiccation.

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