Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

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Domestic violence perpetrated against men in Kigamboni Municipality, Tanzania: Evidence from social ecological framework
(Elsevier, 2025) Rugalabam, Jacqueline Moses; Jeckoniah, John Nshimba; Jesse, Angela Mcharo
Domestic violence against men (DVAM) is an underexplored issue globally, especially in patriarchal societies. While most existing studies focus on individual-level factors such as income, age, and education, they often overlook the broader social, cultural, and relational contexts that influence male victimization. This study ad- dresses this gap by examining DVAM through the Social Ecological Model (SEM), which analyses the interplay of individual, relational, and community-level dynamics. A mixed-methods approach combined quantitative data from 133 male victims with qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified significant associations between age disparities, income dif- ferences, and power dynamics with psychological, sexual, and financial violence (p < 0.05). Men significantly older than their partners were more likely to experience sexual violence, while men who earned more than their partners faced increased risks of sexual and psychological abuse. The SEM analysis revealed how patriarchal norms and community-level stigma discourage male victims from seeking help, perpetuating cycles of abuse. The study concludes that DVAM in Kigamboni Municipality is driven by entrenched cultural norms and relational conflicts stemming from financial and power imbalances. It recommends gender-neutral legal reforms by the Parliament and Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, community awareness campaigns to reduce stigma led by NGOs and community leaders. These interventions aim to challenge harmful norms, empower male victims, and provide practical solutions for recovery and prevention
Managing pastoralists and farmers' conflict in Tanzania. a narrative review of strategies, implementation and challenges
(East African Nature & Science Organization (EANSO), 2025) Jesse, Angela Mcharo; Malisa, Emmanuel Timoth
Pastoralists and farmers' conflict is a continuous problem in African countries, including Tanzania, which results in many negative effects, including death, injury and destruction of properties. Causes include competition for land, scarcity of land and water, unclear and or trespass of village boundaries, effects of climate change and inappropriate approaches to solve the existing pastoralists and farmers’ disputes. Since the relevance of conflict management strategies is dynamic socially, temporally and spatially, various studies have been providing a contextual, still fragmented picture of the strategies. Previous reviews have focused on conflict management in Africa as a whole, in West Africa, in East Africa and in South Africa. The present review focuses on the Tanzanian context. Specifically, this review explores the strategies employed in managing the pastoralists-farmers conflict in Tanzania and challenges observed in their implementation. A narrative review methodology was employed. The search words used were: farmers and pastoralists conflict in Africa and in Tanzania; causes of pastoralists and farmers conflicts in Africa and in Tanzania; strategies used to manage conflict in Africa and in Tanzania; and challenges facing the pastoralists and farmers conflict resolution in Tanzania. Strategies employed to resolve conflict between pastoralists and farmers in Tanzania, based on this study, include: enforcement of land rules and procedures, mediation, negotiation, competing and avoiding. The observed challenges were poor implementation of land policy, poor involvement of the community in conflict resolution and the growing land scarcity. The review concludes that; prevalence and applicability of pastoralists-farmers conflict management strategies differ by situation/state of the community, i.e. existing social relationships; awareness and enforcement of land rules, laws, regulations and human rights; existing informal institutions and their functioning alongside the formal institutions; and the role played by trusted and neutral individuals in the community. While conflict resolution through peaceful ways, as the conflict resolution theory entails, works and is recommended, the review acknowledges that there are times when the use of force becomes indispensable. Selection of pastoralists-farmers conflict resolution
Bridging the policy-practice divide: a systematic review of the determinants and constraints on women’s land tenure security in Sub-Saharan Africa
(East African Nature & Science Organization (EANSO), 2026) Jesse, Angela Mcharo
Secure land tenure is a critical asset for agency, livelihoods, and resilience, yet a persistent gender gap in land ownership undermines development and equality in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Despite a proliferation of gender-sensitive land policies, the disparity between legislative intent and on-the-ground reality remains a formidable challenge. This study employs a systematic review methodology, following a PRISMA-inspired protocol. From an initial pool of 2,446 studies identified across major academic databases, 56 met the inclusion criteria based on relevance, methodological rigour, and thematic focus, forming the basis for a thematic synthesis. The review identifies a triad of influencing factors: (1) Policy Mechanisms: including national land reforms, constitutional guarantees, and international frameworks; (2) Implementation Bottlenecks: such as weak enforcement, limited legal awareness, and lack of political will; and (3) Structural Barriers: primarily patriarchal customary tenure systems, discriminatory inheritance norms, and deeply embedded socio-cultural practices that privilege male lineage. The analysis reveals a fundamental tension of legal pluralism, where statutory laws coexist and often conflict with customary systems. The principal impediment is not a lack of policy but a governance disjuncture, a failure to align formal institutions with informal, socially entrenched norms that govern resource allocation at the community level. This review synthesises and advances theoretical frameworks at the intersection of political economy and property rights, demonstrating how patriarchal bargaining and institutional bricolage shape women’s land access within plural legal environments. It consolidates a fragmented evidence base to provide a comprehensive, region-wide analysis of the multi-scalar obstacles (from household to state) to women’s land tenure security, offering a coherent evidence map for researchers and practitioners. Transforming women's land rights in SSA requires moving beyond technical legal reforms to address the socio-institutional roots of exclusion. Key recommendations include: (1) implementing gender- responsive land governance that integrates customary and statutory systems; (2) investing in grassroots legal empowerment and awareness campaigns; (3) strengthening accountability mechanisms for policy enforcement; and (4) promoting systemic research on gendered outcomes of land tenure interventions.
Is Hepatitis B the case at higher learning institutions? awareness and response from students at Sokoine University of Agriculture
(East African Nature & Science Organization (EANSO), 2026) Jesse, Angela Mcharo
Employing a convergent parallel research design and the social ecological model, the study investigated students’ awareness of Hepatitis B and the vaccine at Sokoine University of Agriculture. This is due to the high prevalence of the mentioned disease despite different efforts to contain it under the World Health Organization and health ministries of different countries, including Tanzania. A sample of 168 finalist students aged from 21 to 30 situated at the university hostels and the key informants from the SUA Health Department were involved in the study. A desk review method was used to collect data of the same from different studies conducted at higher learning institutions. The study found that 68.30% of the students were not aware of hepatitis B in terms of its transmission, prevention and cure. The study also found that most of the respondents had little understanding of the Hepatitis B vaccine in terms of dosage per person’s age. Moreover, results from the desk review revealed that students from health institutions were also lacking knowledge on Hepatitis B, while some had the notion that providing the vaccine was among the ways of accelerating unsafe sexual activities. The study concludes that knowledge on Hepatitis B and vaccination compliance at higher learning institutions is minimal despite the huge interaction, which could facilitate learning as stipulated in the social ecological model. It is recommended that health departments within institutions should introduce awareness campaigns and other applicable strategies to raise awareness on health issues, including Hepatitis B and other communicable and non-communicable diseases.
What works and how it works in women empowerment: Experience from Community Research and Development Services in Monduli District, Arusha, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024) Jesse, Angela M.
Women’s empowerment is a global concern aimed at reducing gender gaps to ensure equality within communities. Despite efforts by governments and organizations to promote gender equality and alleviate poverty, women in pastoralist societies, such as those in Monduli District, Tanzania, continue to face gender-based violence, discrimination in asset ownership, and high poverty levels. This study investigates whether empowerment strategies are inclusive, whether livelihood activities align with community needs, and the observable impacts of these activities. A mixed-methods approach was used, collecting data from 201 survey respondents, eight focus group discussions (FGDs), and six key informants. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were applied to quantitative data, complemented by thematic analysis of qualitative data. Results indicate that strategies such as involving government leaders and men, selecting the poorest women, providing training, seed capital, and monitoring significantly enhance project sustainability (p < 0.05). Livelihood activities, including goat fattening and selling essential goods, were associated with improved household economic outcomes (p < 0.01). The study concludes that context-specific strategies, coupled with training and monitoring, are critical for sustainable women’s empowerment. It recommends that governments and organizations conduct community-based research to tailor empowerment strategies to local needs.
Narrative review on awareness, challenges, and vaccine uptake of cervical cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa
(AJOL, 2025) Jesse, AM; Mwita, S
Cervical cancer is among the distressing problems in many countries in the world, while many cases are revealed in sub-Saharan Africa. Consequently, the objective of this paper was to provide a narrative review on awareness, challenges, and vaccine uptake of cervical cancer in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) using online and offline library resources in a documentary review design where different publications on the theme were extracted and discussed. The review employed a content analysis approach. The findings of this review show that there is low awareness of cervical cancer, the screening process, and the Human Papillomavirus vaccine. The challenges hindering cervical cancer screening and vaccine uptake are related to: lack of health personnel; social myths and stigma; fear of cancer; cultural practices among Africans; and health personnel’s attitude. It is concluded that, given the status of awareness of people about cervical cancer, the mitigation measures for containing and reducing the transmission of cervical cancer are less effective in sub-Saharan Africa and other countries. Hence, there is a need for more location-specific evidence on sociocultural factors that may hamper the adoption of recommended practices to address the problem.
A narrative review of community engagement in the identification, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of health projects in Tanzania
(TAJOCODE, 2024) Jesse, Angela M.; Malisa, Emmanuel T.
Community engagement in development projects enhances community ownership, improves capacities of the involved stakeholders, and ensures sustainability of projects. Reviews have focused on community engagement in water projects, road construction and education services. This study reviewed the community engagement in health projects due to their importance to human life. A narrative review was conducted, mainly through ResearchGate, GoogleSearch, GoogleScholar and ScienceDirect. A conceptual framework was constructed based on the reviewed literature. The study found that there were health projects which were successfully implemented due to proper community engagement while to most of the projects the community engagement was faced with numerous challenges including poor communication between technical staff and the community; unqualified technical staff; poor community engagement process; poor management capability and limited transparency. While success of health projects is subject to numerous factors, community engagement throughout the project is crucial because it influences the other factors. Therefore, community engagement ought to receive the utmost importance when contemplating planning and implementing health projects. There is a need to employ technical staff who are well-trained and experienced in community mobilization before projects identification starts. This should be coupled with supporting community engagement in all stages of a project.
The influence of religious institutions’ initiatives on graduates employability: a case of the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) chaplaincies
(East African Nature & Science Organization (EANSO), 2025) Madihi, Godson C.; Jesse, Angel M.; Malisa, Emmanuel Timothy
Graduate employability is a persistent challenge globally. Tanzania among the developing countries has been affected, despite numerous efforts by the government and other stakeholders, including religious institutions. The aim of this study is to examine the influence of religious institutions’ initiatives on graduate employability in Tanzania. Using the Christian Council of Tanzania (CCT) chaplaincies as a case study. Cross-sectional survey, a total of 160 respondents were obtained, including four leaders from the CCT head office, four Chaplains from CCT chaplaincies and finalist students from the Institute of Rural Development Planning (IRDP), University of Dodoma (UDOM), Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), and Mzumbe University (MU). Primary data were collected from key informants through interviews using a checklist of questions, and from a sample of finalist students through a structured questionnaire survey. The findings revealed a significant role played by religious institutions. The CCT’s role was manifested through chaplaincies’ activities such as communication, entrepreneurship training, and seminars. The study concludes that while religious institutions enhance employability through the development of essential soft skills and entrepreneurial abilities, these initiatives alone are insufficient to directly influence employability outcomes. The study recommends that the CCT head office and Chaplaincies should establish a specific desk or unit which among other functions will identify soft skills that limit the graduate employability and develop programmes to provide such skills in the course of the students’ training across all chaplaincies at higher learning institutions as they continue to attend CCT programmes.
The implications of gender-based violence on access to land for rural women’s empowerment in patrilineal societies in Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis, 2025) Maliganya, Willy; Mubofu, Christian Jesse, Angela M.; Jesse, Angela M.
Gender-based violence (GBV) perpetuates inequality, particularly in land ownership, disadvantaging women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite policies to address GBV, women in patrilineal societies like rural Tanzania still face discrimination in accessing land. While studies have explored gender gaps in economic performance, little research examines how GBV impacts women’s land rights in these communities. This paper analyzes GBV’s implications using desk review data, revealing persistent discrimination despite Tanzania’s supportive policies. Key factors driving GBV and restricting land access are categorized as physical, socio-cultural, and individual. The study highlights how GBV reinforces systemic barriers, limiting women’s asset ownership. By identifying these factors, the paper provides insights into improving women’s empowerment and suggests policy measures to enhance their well-being. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address GBV and promote equitable land rights in Tanzania.
Review of the handbook of peace and conflict studies, edited by Charles Webel and Johan Galtung
(Jimma University, Ethiopia, 2025) Ngowi, E. E.; Jesse, A.M.
Through combining theoretical models with empirical case studies, the Handbook of Peace and Conflict Studies provides an in-depth exploration of peace and conflict resolution. To assess the contributions of the handbook, this review utilizes a critical analysis approach that incorporates both qualitative and comparative methods. Three specific criteria are employed to appraise the book: (i) theoretical contributions, which examine interaction with both classic and contemporary theories, including Lederach’s (1997) approaches to peacebuilding and Galtung's (1969) understanding of violence; (ii) empirical validity, which assesses the case studies for methodological robustness and geographic diversity; and (iii) practical relevance, which examines its applicability for scholars, practitioners, and policymakers. This review concludes that the handbook serves as a comprehensive and multidisciplinary resource, demonstrating strong theoretical insight and a grassroots perspective. Nonetheless, it is limited by case studies that focus primarily on Europe, the use of complex language, and the absence of a formal abstract, all of which could pose challenges for novice readers. Future editions could enhance their value by simplifying the language, incorporating additional case studies from Southeast Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa, and offering practical policy suggestions. Despite these limitations, the handbook remains a vital resource for peace and conflict studies, effectively addressing the complexities of international conflicts while connecting theory with practice.
Condom use among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa: a narrative review on the myths, misconceptions, and challenges
(Wiley, 2024) Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Jesse, Angela M.; Allan, Tumaini T.
If properly used, condoms can serve as an efective family planning method and preventive tool towards sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Despite its anticipated efectiveness, there are diferent myths and misconceptions which have been observed as hindrances to both its use and efectiveness. Tis review examines the myths and misconceptions of condom use among youths and explores challenges in condom usage in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A narrative review was employed of which diferent journal articles were reviewed. Te search words/phrases were “condom use in SSA, condom use among youths in SSA, myths and misconceptions on condom use among youths in SSA.” A total of 1074 studies were identifed, 93 were relevant to the topic, and only 71 suited the review. Te identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that males were the ones to decide on the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, economic power determines the use of condoms, condom use reduces sexual pleasure, condom use relates to the spread of HIV/AIDS, and condom use is against God’s will. Other identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that the use of condoms is a sign of lack of trust associated with fornication and adultery, also the use of condoms is only for family planning purposes. Te challenges identifed were breakage of condom during sexual intercourse, condom slippage, condom leakage, incorrect storage, and reuse of condoms. Te identifed myths and mis- conceptions lead to low knowledge of condom use within communities. Tere is a need for collaboration between governments, researchers, and NGOs to provide education on condom use to communities, particularly youths.
Beyond access to finance: youth motivations, loan utilization, and repayment behaviour in local government soft loan schemes in rural Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2026) Mkuya, Lucton J.; Jesse, Angela M.; Nyamhanga, Pius J.
Access to affordable finance remains a critical barrier for rural youth in Tanzania, where stringent collateral requirements by commercial banks systematically exclude young people from formal credit markets. In response, Local Government Authorities have implemented soft loan schemes targeting youth groups to foster entrepreneurship and economic inclusion. This mixed-methods study investigates youth motivations for accessing soft loans, utilization and investment patterns, and determinants of repayment success in Morogoro Rural District. We surveyed 200 youth loan beneficiaries through stratified random sampling, conducted focus group discussions with 16 participants from 14 youth groups, and interviewed three district officials. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATA version 18 for descriptive statistics, chi- square tests, and binary logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed using Atlas.ti version 25. Findings reveal that structural features, such as absence of collateral and zero-interest rates, were primary motivators for loan uptake. However, a significant proportion of beneficiaries partially diverted funds toward household consumption needs due to economic pressures. Agriculture dominated investment choices, though technical capacity gaps led to substantial losses. Peer influence motivated participation but often propagated misinformation regarding repayment obligations. Logistic regression identified key predictors of repayment success: fully collective (OR = 3.434, p = 0.001) and mixed investment models (OR = 2.129, p = 0.027), alignment with stated purposes (full alignment OR = 4.789, p = 0.001; partial alignment OR = 2.440, p = 0.025), agricultural investments (OR = 2.489, p = 0.013), motivation by no collateral requirement (OR = 2.201, p = 0.014), and more recent loan cohorts (2023–2024; OR = 2.435, p = 0.003). Peer influence reduced the odds of repayment success (OR = 0.508, p = 0.019). We conclude that while LGA soft loans enhance financial access, sustainable impact requires integrated support systems addressing technical capacity, household survival pressures, misinformation, group governance, and continuous monitoring. Policy recommendations include mandatory pre-disbursement training, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, targeted communication to combat misinformation, support for sectoral diversification, and promotion of genuine collective enterprises
Examining the socio-economic factors influencing loan repayment among youth: Evidence from local government authority soft loan programs in Morogoro Rural District, Tanzania
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2026) Mkuya, Lucton Juma; Jesse, Angela; Nyamhanga, Pius J.
Youth financial exclusion is still a critical barrier to rural economic participation in Tanzania. Local Government Authorities (LGAs) introduced soft loan schemes to support youth entrepreneurship, yet sustainability is threatened by poor repayment performance, with 43.5% of funds unrepaid. This study is guided by the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) as introduced by Ajzen in 1991, which states that individuals' behaviour is influenced by their intentions, which are in turn shaped by their attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioural control. The study used a cross-sectional research design. The target population of the study is youth groups which have benefited from loans from the Morogoro rural district since 2019. The sample size was found by using Yamane's formula. Data was collected from 190 youth respondents through structured questionnaires, supplemented by focus group discussions with 16 participants and key informant interviews with 3 district officials. Binary logistic regression and chi-square tests found significant associations and predictors of repayment performance. Demographic characteristics significantly shaped repayment outcomes. Age demonstrated a clear progression effect, with youth aged 29–40 years 2.35 times more likely to repay than those aged 18–28 (p = 0.012), while those above 40 achieved even higher odds (OR = 3.20, p = 0.047), reflecting maturity's positive influence on financial discipline. Secondary education increased repayment likelihood by 1.87 times (p = 0.028), confirming financial literacy's importance. Employment status proved decisive: self-employed youth were 6.63 times more likely to repay than unemployed borrowers (p < 0.001), while formally employed youth achieved 5.34 times higher odds (p < 0.001). These dramatic differences underscore that stable, reliable income is essential for loan servicing. Loan design features critically influenced outcomes. Adequate loan amounts tripled repayment likelihood (OR = 3.42, p < 0.001), emphasizing that proper sizing matched to investment scale is essential for profitability. Prior business experience doubled repayment probability (OR = 1.98, p = 0.003), proving how market knowledge and cash-flow management skills enhance sustainability. The investment sector mattered significantly, with agriculture and small businesses showing strong repayment. Financial literacy training generated substantial improvement (OR = 4.20, p < 0.001), with trained borrowers achieving 84.8% good repayment versus 54.1% without training. Most powerfully, borrowers whose repayment source was investment profits were 11.84 times more likely to repay than those dependent on family support (p < 0.001). Qualitative findings revealed that program features attracted youth, but household survival pressures undermined implementation. Approximately 54% of borrowers partially diverted funds toward consumption, particularly education and basic needs. The study concludes that repayment performance reflects the complex interplay of maturity, employment stability, loan adequacy, institutional support, and productive use. For sustainability, LGAs should prioritize adequate loan sizing, provide mandatory comprehensive training, strengthen ongoing monitoring, and address household survival pressures through complementary support mechanisms.
Communities’ Perceptions Toward Agricultural Projects in Kishapu District, Tanzania
(East African Nature & Science Organization (EANSO), 2023) Shinyanga, Abia Jason; Malisa, Emmanuel Timothy; Jesse, Angela
Perception towards development projects being introduced or implemented in an area tends to differ among community members, with some projects being perceived negatively and others positively. Understanding local communities’ perceptions towards agricultural projects and factors that influence these perceptions is important because the perception of a project has a bearing on participation in the same. However, more often than not, local communities’ perceptions do not receive as much attention as they deserve. This study surveyed the communities’ perceptions toward agricultural projects in Kishapu District. Data were collected from 100 respondents through a questionnaire survey and from 6 participants through key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics, binary logistic regression model and content analysis were employed for data analysis. Results show that most of the respondents had a positive perception toward agricultural projects because the projects contribute to community development. Drivers of positive community perception are involvement in previous agricultural projects, education, access to information and farm size. Therefore, community perception toward agricultural projects hinges on the extent to which similar projects have benefited the community in the past. Thus, to achieve positive community perceptions towards agricultural projects, there is a need for project implementers to ensure that projects improve people’s living standards. Moreover, there is a need to ensure community members are well informed of the projects regardless of their literacy level and that innovative practices to benefit farmers regardless of their farm sizes are promoted.
A case study of the Handeni district (Tanzania) examining drought coping strategies and risk management among pastoralists based on livestock
(Research Gate, 2023) Mwakalonge, Hebron Lusubilo; Chingonikaya, Emmanuel E.
Mwakalonge HL, Chingonikaya EE. 2023. A case study of the Handeni District (Tanzania) examining drought coping strategies and risk management among pastoralists based on livestock. Intl J Trop Drylands 7: 1-11. A case study was done to learn more about how pastoralists in the Handeni District, Tanzania, cope with drought. Drought poses a serious threat to pastoralists' way of life globally. The purpose of this research was to analyze and record data on the efficacy of livestock-based risk management and coping mechanisms in mitigating the negative consequences of drought. Despite the common belief that pastoralists can't make a living without their animals, there is a lack of information on how to make pastoral communities more resistant to drought and other dangers, information that is essential for any system of sustainable management. Many efforts have been made to deal with the drought, but it continues to worsen. Therefore, a cross-sectional research strategy was adopted to learn more about cattle risk management and coping strategies. Questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews with key informants were used to gather socio-economic information from 160 herders. Frequencies and percentages were calculated using a statistical software package for social sciences. A regression model was used for inferential statistics to establish a connection between the socio-economic status of pastoral households and the independent variable of interest. A negative correlation with age was found (β = -0.451; p = 0.808), a positive correlation with education (β = 43.821; p = 0.497), a positive correlation with family size (β = 3.379; p= 0.50), a negative correlation with marital status (β = -53.979; p = 0.847), and a positive correlation with the land area (β = 58.898; p = 0.004). Herd mobility positively influenced the socio-economies of pastoral households (β =91.749; p = 0.01), as did the availability of an early warning system (β =; 316.537; p = 0.00) and the timely availability of a market (β = 11.516; p = 0.021). A total of 3.666 animals out of 57,785 were lost due to the effects of the drought. The death rate was 6.34%.
Governance systems and natural resource management quality in Tanzania: a cross-sectoral review of evolution, challenges, and pathways for reform
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2025) Mangi, Halima O.; Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Chingonikaya, Emanuel E.; Salanga, Raymond J.
Natural resources, including forests, water, wildlife, and fisheries, are central to Tanzania’s socio-economic development and the livelihoods of its rural population. Over recent decades, governance of these resources has shifted from centralized state-led models toward more inclusive, decentralized, and community-based systems in response to environmental degradation and sustainability imperatives. Despite reforms such as Participatory Forest Management (PFM) and Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), persistent challenges, including institutional fragmentation, elite capture, legal ambiguities, and limited local capacity, continue to undermine governance effectiveness. This study provides a wide-ranging, cross-sectoral review of the evolution, challenges, and future directions of natural resource governance in Tanzania. Grounded in institutional economics, political ecology, and participatory governance theories, it examines how different governance systems, state-led, co-management, community-based, and hybrid models, affect the quality and equity of resource management across forestry, wildlife, water, and fisheries sectors. Through a narrative synthesis of peer-reviewed and grey literature (2000–2025), the study evaluates governance quality using dimensions such as transparency, accountability, inclusiveness, and fairness. Findings indicate that participatory approaches have contributed to reduced illegal activities and increased local revenues, but these gains are often constrained by weak legal frameworks, limited institutional autonomy, and inconsistent enforcement. The paper concludes by proposing an integrated governance framework based on polycentric and adaptive principles, emphasizing two focused recommendations: (i) harmonizing sectoral laws to secure community tenure and clarify mandates, and (ii) investing in the autonomy and capability of local institutions to ensure equitable and sustainable resource governance.
Factors affecting the choice of tree species to plant in urban areas of Morogoro and Kinondoni municipalities: a socio-economic assessment
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2005) Madadi,Lazaro Martin
The study investigated socio-economic factors affecting the choice of selecting tree species to plant in urban areas of Kinondoni and Morogoro municipalities. The study objectives were to (a) identify tree species preferred to plant in urban areas; (b) assess the importance of planted trees in urban areas; (c) examine the socio-economic factors affecting the choice of trees species to plant in urban areas; (d) examine knowledge, skills and perceptions of urban dwellers on urban trees and; (e) identify limitations of urban tree planting. The study was a cross-sectional and data were collected from 120 respondents whose homesteads were planted with trees. Focused group discussions and participants’ observation were also applied. Household heads were eligible for interviews. Data were analyzed using SPSS computer software. A total of49 tree species were identified and ranked in order of their preferences. The study showed that urban dwellers of different socio-economic status planted trees mainly for shade, fruits, windbreaks provision and aesthetics. The study showed that selections oftree species for urban areas were affected by complex socio-economic, cadastral and technical factors as a result, trees were haphazardly planted. The study showed that municipals’ plans, regulations and bylaws were inadequate, weak and relaxed. The study indicated that urban trees’ development were conflicting with infrastructures. Lack of knowledge and skills oftrees planting among urban dwellers was also revealed. The study recommends master plans and bylaws and regulations for tree planting in urban areas be amended to take care overlooked issues when selecting tree species for urban area. The study also recommended that the identified most preferred tree species be further studied and be coordinated forestry extension agents to serve different stakeholders of urban forest. The study also recommended urban forestry be area of emphasis within Tanzania Forest Policy (TFP), Forest Action Plan (FAP).
The effectiveness of the government fund for orphaned and vulnerable children in secondary schools: the case of Morogoro Municipal and Mvomero District Councils, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Daffa, Joyce John
In 2003 the Government started a scholarship grant to support pupils from low income households (orphans and vulnerable children - OVC) to access secondary education. Though the fund has been operational for a long time, not much has been documented about the effectiveness of the support especially in Morogoro Region. The overall objective of this study was to assess the effectiveness of the Government Fund to OVC in secondary schools in Morogoro Municipal and Mvomero District Councils. Three schools were involved in this study namely Kilakala, Morogoro and Mzumbe Secondary Schools. Questionnaires were administered to 75 students from the schools, 17 parents/guardians and 15 key informants. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). The main results were that: there were a good number of vulnerable students (32%) though the majority of the students were orphans (68%) and that most of them were living with their mothers; data for applicants in wards/districts showed that only about 24% of the applicants got the government support; in the schools, only about 49% of the orphans and vulnerable students in all the three schools were supported by this fund and the amounts given were not adequate to meet students’ needs compared to when their parent(s) were alive; OVC got information about the fund mainly from their Head Teachers while only 3% got information through the media; knowledge about the fund as well as the mechanism to select students for scholarship award was generally limited; about 53% and 41% of key informants and parents/guardians respectively indicated that the mechanism to select OVC for scholarship award was transparent; there was low participation of students (15%) in matters related to fund distribution; about 94% of the parents/guardians indicated that the scholarship funds were The following are the main recommendation of this study: the Govemment/District and not targeting the poor; and lastly, all students indicated that fund disbursement was late. Municipal Councils should increase the fund to support OVC as the number of OVC is increasing every year; there should be more transparency about the fund. To increase transparency, the following should be published in newspapers, Government notice boards and websites: criteria to award grants, amount of fund available and lists of selected students. Lastly, fund management should be improved by timely disbursement of money to students.
Determinants of primary school teachers’ health literacy in Morogoro municipality, Tanzania: A reflection on access to health information
(Hindawi, 2023) Mshingo,David M; Muhanga,Mikidadi I; Salanga,Raymond J; Ngowi,Edwin E
Background. Teachers have the potential of promoting health knowledge and consequently health-literacy (HL) enhancement. Cognizant of this, interventions geared toward influencing and strengthening school teachers’ HL have remained important. However, for such interventions to be effective, understanding what determines teachers’ HL is inevitable. Purpose. This article analyses the determinants of primary school teachers’ HL by analyzing what prompts their health information-seeking patterns. Methods. A cross-sectional research involving 189 randomly sampled primary school teachers was conducted in 2021 in Morogoro Municipality whereby data were collected through a structured questionnaire survey and analyzed using IBM-SPSS. A score index gauged HL while frequencies and percentages measured other variables. Results. All teachers had high HL with a mean HL (standard deviation) of 8.10062. Only 43.4% searched for HI, 20.1% of those who searched for HI were influenced by healthrelated problems encountered, 12.2% searched for HI to broaden their knowledge on health-related issues, and 7.4% were prompted by health risks around. Also, 3.7% of the teachers acceded that health-seeking information is influenced by an interest in searching HI for self-health management. About 36.0%, 32.3%, and 31.7% of the teachers agree that the provision of health education, interest to read issues related to HL, and addressing issues related to HL influence teachers’ HL. Conclusion. Teachers have been searching for HI due to different concerns, though there is a need to further enhance such efforts. Recommendation. The government, communities, and development partners should enhance HI seeking to promote teachers’ HL for a healthier society.
Agro-meteorological services in the era of climate change: a bibliometric review of research trends, knowledge gaps, and global collaboration
(Frontier, 2025) Khatibu,Salma; Ngowi,Edwin
Introduction: Agro-meteorological services are crucial for mitigating climate variability’s impact on agriculture and enhancing food security. Despite their importance, the global research landscape in this field remains underexplored. This study examines the evolution of agro meteorological research from 2010 to 2024, focusing on trends, contributors, and regional developments. Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Dimensions database, with visualizations created via VOSviewer. The study analyzed publication trends, key institutions, authors, journals, and subject clusters. Statistical correlations assessed collaboration and institutional impact. Results: The results revealed that publications increased steadily, peaking in 2020 (r = 0.92, p < 0.01), reflecting emphasis on sustainability and climate adaptation. Collaborative publications correlated strongly with institutional impact (r = 0.75, p < 0.01), led by Wageningen University and the University of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Sustainability and The Science of the Total Environment were key journals. Sub- Saharan Africa and South Asia showed significant research growth (r = 0.85, p < 0.01). Discussion: The results highlight the field’s global, interdisciplinary scope and rising contributions from developing regions. However, capacity gaps and limited integration of indigenous knowledge persist. Inclusive partnerships and capacity building are essential to strengthen agro meteorological services and address climate challenges effectively.

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