Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

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Determination of community’s perception over the current status of wood energy: a case of Matengo highlands in Tanzania
(International Journal of Ecology & Development (IJED), 2007) Mahonge, C. P. I.; Nsenga, J. V.
Community’s perception over status of wood energy was determined in Matengo Highlands, Tanzania. Data was collected from a sample of women using semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for Social Science software. Results indicated that the source of energy for 88.2% of respondents was firewood, while 11.8% use both firewood and charcoal. About 57% of respondents said firewood was not as available today as compared to the past decade while for 31.6% the accessibility is the same today as that of the past decade. For sustainable utilization, respondents said, the community should plant trees and adopt improved firewood stoves technology. It was recommended that strengthening of woodlots and agroforestry systems is significant for sustainable utilization of wood energy. Also, training the community on appropriate areas to plant exotic tree species is imperative to avoid possible negative impacts to the environment. Alongside exotic trees, the community should be encouraged to plant indigenous trees for procuring wood energy benefits in short run, and environmental conservation in long run.
Evaluating effectiveness of sustainable livelihood development in rural communities along Mara river basin, Tanzania: what works, what doesn’t work, and why?
(PLOS One, 2025-02-25) Edwin Estomii Ngowi; Angela M. Jesse
The “Sustainable Livelihood Development of Rural Communities in Low Land Along the Mara River Basin” project, implemented by Mogabiri Farm Extension Centre (MFEC) in Tarime District, Tanzania, seeks to address persistent socio-economic challenges in rural communities by promoting climate adaptation, income diversifi- cation, and gender equality. Despite its ambitious objectives, the project operates within a complex socio-economic and cultural environment that can undermine its intended outcomes. Evaluating such projects requires a critical examination of both their successes and the barriers that persist. Using a mixed-methods approach, this evaluation combined quantitative data from 265 smallholder farmers (SHFs) and qualitative insights from focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and document reviews. In terms of “What Works?”, findings indicate that 75% of SHFs adopted climate-resilient practices (p < 0.05), and 90% of communities imple- mented gender-responsive action plans (p < 0.01), with 68% of households engaging in income diversification activities such as poultry farming and beekeeping. However, the question of “What Doesn’t Work?” revealed notable shortcomings, including limited market access (p = 0.03) and cultural barriers restricting full gender partici- pation (p = 0.04). The persistence of these challenges, despite project successes, underscores the need for a deeper investigation into structural and contextual factors that constrain the effectiveness of such initiatives. Understanding “Why?” these barriers remain highlights the interplay of systemic market integration challenges and cultural resistance to gender equity. While the project has made commendable progress, addressing these underlying issues is crucial for achieving long-term success. Strengthening market linkages, expanding gender-sensitive interventions, and fostering sustainability through community ownership and local partnerships are recommended to enhance scalability and impact.
The entrepreneurship potential of rural areas: soap production as a side business for Tanzanian rice farmers
(Arca Academic Publisher, 2022) Tsuchiya, Y.; Swai, T.A.; Takahashi, K.; Wakamatsu, T.; Watari, R.; Nsenga, J.V.
Purpose: This study examines soap production’s entrepreneurship potential and profitability as a supplementary business for rural rice farmers in Tanzania to promote their economic independence. Design/ Methodology/ Approach: We randomly sampled and interviewed about ten small- scale soap manufacturers in urban Tanzania gathered from 2019-2021 to develop a soap production business strategy for rural farmers at a similar scale. Considering the Voronoi theory, we calculated the distance from the rural areas to urban centres to determine the transportation costs, which particularly burden rural farmers. Soap production costs and profitability were determined based on transportation costs and raw material prices. Findings: Rural farmers would incur high transportation costs, given the high average distance to the nearest urban centre (sometimes > 100 km). Nevertheless, producing their rice bran oil, valuable raw material for soap production, would give them a competitive advantage over urban producers. Research Limitation: The study’s proposed strategy can be applied to similar contexts to reduce the urban-rural entrepreneurship divide. Practical Implication: Soaps made using rice bran oil help farmers reuse agricultural waste. Their active ingredients also increase their marketability as high-end cosmetic products, providing farmers with additional income. Social Implication: Commercializing agricultural residues such as rice bran increases farmers’ revenues and reduces CO2 emissions by preventing the residues’ incineration; this creates a virtuous cycle in society. Originality/ Value: This study presents a more realistic business strategy for rural Tanzanian farmers, as, unlike previous studies, it considers not only direct costs but also transportation costs.
Analysing urban and peri-urban youth employment in agribusiness in Malawi
(PLOS ONE, 2023) Mkandawire, Dingase; Gbegbelegbe, Sika; Nsenga, Justus V.; Yami, Mastewal; Kenamu, Edwin
The study aims to analyse key determinants of urban and peri-urban youth employment in agribusiness in Malawi to support youth policies. A mixed-methods approach is used, which combines both quantitative and qualitative analyses. The quantitative method involved a Bivariate Logit Model and Multinomial Logit Model to analyse nationally representative sur- vey data from the Fourth Integrated Household Survey in 2016–2017. The qualitative method employed thematic analysis to data generated through Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews for key stakeholders involved in agri-business in Lilongwe dis- trict. The qualitative analysis, which focuses on a case study for urban and peri-urban youth in agribusiness, was used to validate, and provide context for the quantitative analysis. The results revealed that a majority of the urban and peri-urban youth engaged in agribusiness across Malawi work in sole farming (family farms or ganyu); in addition, women outnumber men in terms of engagement in agribusiness, and this stems from tradition. In addition, the determinants that affect youth’s engagement in agribusiness consist of demographic fac- tors, institutional support, assets, and shocks. It was also shown that men were more likely than women to be engaged in sole farming, but they were as likely as women to be engaged in other forms of agribusiness. The policy recommendation from this study is that programs aimed at supporting youth engagement in agribusiness should consider a variety of factors; If resources are limited, the programs should ensure that they offer capacity strengthening for the youth in the form of extension services and practical training in agribusiness.
Resource governance using a hybrid institution in Momba district Tanzania: a process approach
(International Journal of Social Sciences and Humanity Studies, 2021) Mahonge, Christopher Paul; Nsenga, Justus Vincent; Itani, Juichi; Kurosaki, Ryugo
Natural resource governance fragmentation across scales can inhibit coordinated action and reduce innovation capacity. The presence of bridging actors who connect relevant stakeholder inside governance networks can aid in the resolution of this problem. In this regard, community organization is crucial for effective resource governance. Within the framework of community-based approaches, and using a case study, this study explores the use of a hybrid institution to organize resource governance in Mfuto village in Momba district, Tanzania. The authors use hierarchical and co-governance modes of interactive governance theory to guide the process of data analysis. By applying content and thematic analyses, our observation suggests that building the capacity of the institution and linking it to the wider range of stakeholders are essential steps towards the attainment of anticipated outcomes. Following this, the study highlights four salient steps of an inverted pyramid model (IPM) and are derived from the resource governance initiatives. The study’s implications and limitations as well as future research directions are presented in the concluding section of the study.
Intra-household gender relations and women participation in non-industrial private forestry in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
(Commonwealth Forestry Association, 2021) Nsenga, J.V.; Mwaseba, D.L.
This paper draws on a study conducted in the selected districts of Iringa and Njombe regions in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania where over the past decade Non-industrial Private Forestry (NIPF) has emerged involving village-based domestic investors. Data for the study were largely collected using focus group discussions (FGDs) of men and women tree growers. Data were analysed using content analysis focusing on the emerging themes, subthemes, and patterns. The paper shows that gender division of labour characterizes silvicultural practices in private forestry. Men play a key and dominant role in decision making on the allocation of labour and marketing of timber. We argue that, given this arrangement, as long as men continue to dominate the market sphere, mere ownership of woodlots by women is not a feasible pathway to having control over income obtained from the sales of timber from their woodlots. To address this, the paper comes up with some recommendations.
Influence of successors’ entrepreneurial competencies on performance in family-owned small and medium enterprises in Arusha city, Tanzania
(AJASSS, 2022-06-30) Kiwia, Rose H.; Bengesi, Kenneth M.K; Ndyetabula, Daniel W.
This paper examines attributes of successors’ entrepreneurial competencies such as risk-taking propensity, ability to exploit business opportunities, innovation and commitment in family businesses in Arusha City, Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was employed using a quantitative survey approach, in which two hundred family business successors provided data for this paper. The data were analysed using the Hierarchical Regression Model to assess the influence of successors’ entrepreneurial competencies on the performance of family-owned SMEs. The findings indicate that successors’ risk- taking propensity and the ability to exploit business opportunities influence the performance of family-owned SMEs. The paper concludes that family- owned SMEs managed by successors who can take calculated risks and are also able to exploit business opportunities are in a good position to realize better performance in terms of net profit. It is recommended that family business founders should build their successors’ entrepreneurial competencies.
Extent of adoption of selected innovations among smallholder paddy farmers in Mvomero District, Tanzania
(Tanzania Institute of Accountancy, 2020) Mhango Solomon; Jeckoniah John N.
Presently, different stakeholders play a key role in paddy production by introducing innovations to paddy farmers in Tanzania. However, the farmers tend to adopt innovations at different rates, which call for an establishment of the extent of the adoption of introduced innovations. This study was conducted in Mvomero District, Morogoro, Tanzania to determine the extent of adoption of innovations in paddy production. A cross-sectional research design was adopted and 299 respondents were sampled using simple random technique. Data were collected using questionnaire and in-depth interviews. Three Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with 6 to 12 participants and Key Informant Interviews were conducted. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The extent of adoption of innovations was analysed with fundamental statistics values, namely, frequencies and percentage. Study findings revealed that the adoption of systems of rice intensification (SRI) is concentrated into 3 to 7 practices and few respondents adopted 1 to 2 and 8 to 11 SRI practices. The adoption of Power Tillers (PTs), Wooden Threshers (WTs) and Combine Rice Mills (CRMs) were difficult accounted for 47, 5 and 18percent of all the respondents, respectively. It is complex for a smallholder paddy farmer to adopt full a package of an innovation in which its composition has several production principles. Extension Officers are advised to design context-specific extension programmes for easy adoption of paddy innovations to rural farmers.
Rice commercialization in Mngeta Kilombero District, Tanzania: policy implications for inclusive poverty reduction
(Developing Country Studies, 2022-09-30) Isinika Aida; Mlay Gilead; Magomba Christopher; Mdoe Ntengua; Jeckoniah John; Mosha Devotha; Boniface Gideon; Saha Amrita
Agricultural commercialization is sought for its effect on productivity, income and livelihood improvement. Rising agricultural commercialization also contributes to employment, foreign currency and government revenue through taxes. It may however have various undesirable outcomes. Rising commercialization from area expansion may increase the smallholders’ vulnerability if they sell part or all of their land. Meanwhile, intensification can have negative effects from increasing use and poor handling of agrochemicals. This paper used pooled cross section data on rice commercialization from Mngeta division in Kilombero valley, Tanzania; collected in two waves (2017 and 2019), to assess commercialization levels among different farmer categories and its impact of on livelihoods and social inclusion. The paper addresses three basic questions; Are commercialization levels dynamic over time? Do commercialization levels differ across farmer categories? Is rice commercialization poverty reducing at all levels? The analysis compares across farmer categories, the effect of commercialization influencing factors and the subsequent effect of rice commercialization on livelihood outcomes. The findings show that commercialization is happening through intensification and extensification but it is not yet on a steady increasing trend and both options have sustainability implication. Meanwhile, poverty reduction is observed across all farmer categories due to rice commercialization and diversified livelihood options, however it is only significant above the fourth quintile (>60% with a social difference). Gender, age and cultural norms are identified as exclusion barrier that need to be addressed in order to enhance inclusion of those benefiting less from agricultural commercialization processes. These finding inform village, district and national level decision makers as they strive to overcome inclusion barriers
Gendered factors and small-scale fish business growth in Mwanza, Tanzania
(usiness Excellence and Management, 2023) Roche Advera Gibe; Jeckoniah John N.; Massawe Fatihia A.
The study aimed to assess the factors influencing the growth of small-scale fish businesses (SSFBs) owned by women in Mwanza, Tanzania. A total of 309 individuals in the fish industry were surveyed through questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. The study assessed the nature of small-scale fish businesses, the constraints facing them, and the determinants of small-scale fish businesses measured by the daily profits obtained. Results showed that marital status, experience in the business, daily capital, type of customers, storage facilities, and involvement in self-help groups significantly impacted daily profit. The study found that women's capital investment and profits were lower compared to men, mainly due to differences in these factors. The study highlights the need for policies to support women-owned SSFBs, including the establishment of self-help groups to provide opportunities for networking and support. The study calls for programmes to boost the growth of women's SSFBs, addressing the challenges and constraints they face. The results emphasize the importance of promoting entrepreneurship and job creation, particularly among women, to drive economic growth in the region.
Contribution of round potato production on smallholder farmers’ food security in Meru District, Tanzania
(The sub Saharan Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (SJSSH), 2023) Lyatuu Thomas M.; Jeckoniah John N.
Round potatoes are cultivated as food and cash crops and have the potential to improve the food security status. This paper analyses factors associated with round potato production to food security in Meru District, Tanzania. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design; multi-stage and simple random sampling techniques were used to select 341 respondents (122 project participants and 219 non-project participants). Mixed methods were used in data collection including structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions. Food security status was estimated using HFIAS, a multiple linear regression model was used to estimate the predictors of food security and the comparison for food security among project and non-project participants was estimated using propensity score matching. Findings showed that the use of quality potato seeds, loan application, availability of other inputs, access to extension services, and area cultivated were important predictors of round potato production (p<0.05). Project participants were more food secure than non-project participants in terms of HFIAS and HDDS, using NNM and MDM principles. Therefore, in the study area potato production contributes to the attainment of food security. It recommended that actors engaged in the promotion of round potato production including the LGA, NGOs and development partners should capitalize on factors identified for improved production and productivity such as more use of technologies, access to extension services, marketing strategies for potato produce, availability of quality seeds and other proper agro-inputs as well as provision of soft loans.
Smallholder agriculture and livelihood sustainability potentials among rural households: a case of sunflower value chain in Tanzania
(JSSBT/ The Co-operative University of Kenya, 2021-12) Mchopa Alban D.; Jeckoniah John N.; Mgema Japhet M.
Sunflower cultivation has attracted the majority of smallholder farmers who have dominated the production node of the value chain. The chain activities have become the main income stream to households and thus increasing livelihood sustainability potentials. However, in some cases smallholder farmers only end up with minimal benefits since the markets are not stabilized to their advantage. As a result, the market practices continue to leave smallholder farmers exposed to livelihood stresses and shocks which affect their potentials for livelihood sustainability. Therefore, the study aimed to analyze the impact of sunflower value chain activities on livelihood sustainability potentials among households of smallholder farmers. A cross-sectional design was adopted to guide the study along with counterfactual approach to establish the hypothesised impact. A sample size of 368 respondents was used including participant and non-participant smallholder farmers and data was collected using questionnaire, key informant interview and focus group discussion. Quantitative data were analysed by using descriptive statistics and propensity score matching while qualitative data were transcribed and thereafter analysed using constant comparison technique. The findings show that most of the households had lower chances for livelihood sustainability (67.1%) while few households (12.5%) were categorised into high livelihood sustainability. The differences were attributable to one’s engagement in sunflower production which had an impact on livelihood sustainability as observed by the differences from propensity scores matching (MD = 1.394; t = 6.98 at p = 0.000). It was concluded that sunflower value chain is potential towards households’ livelihood sustainability unlike any other socio-economic activities as it enabled smallholder farmers to withstand livelihood shocks and stresses based on the generated household income.
Contribution of round potato production on smallholder farmers’ wellbeing in Meru District, Tanzania
(The sub Saharan Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (SJSSH), 2023-12-29) Lyatuu Thomas M.; Jeckoniah John N.
Round potato is an important food and cash crop for increasing smallholder farmers' well-being. The paper analyses factors associated with potato farmers’ well-being and assesses the contribution of round potato production on smallholder farmers' well-being in Meru District, Tanzania. The study involved 341 potato farmers (122 project participants of the potato project and 219 non-project participants). The study adopted a cross-sectional research design, multi-stage, and simple random sampling techniques; purposive sampling was used to select active groups of potato farmers, and non-project participants were selected using simple random techniques. Content analysis was used to analyze the qualitative information collected from FGD and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Correlation analysis was used to determine factors associated with potato farmers’ income. Propensity Score Matching (PSM) was used to estimate the impact of round potato production on smallholders’ farmers’ income by comparing the Average Treatment Effects (income outcomes/indicators) on the Treated (ATT). The results showed a positive and significant correlation between income and production (yield) (p<0.001), the project participants had better well-being than their non-participants' counterparts. The round potatoes project interventions influenced smallholder farmers’ well-being. It is recommended to actors engaged in the promotion of round potatoes production and productivity for improved well-being including LGAs, NGOs, development partners, research institutions and policymakers to ensure; the availability of improved seeds and other proper agro-inputs (fertilizers and pesticides), aces to extension services and loans
How different forms of domestic violence shape men’s responses: unpacking the hidden dynamics of male victimhood in Kigamboni, Tanzania
(African Journal of Social, 2025) Rugalabam, Jacqueline Moses; Jeckoniah, John Nshimba; Jesse, Angela Mcharo
Domestic violence against men remains underreported, with male victims often lacking institutional support and facing barriers to disclosure. This paper examined how men in Kigamboni, Tanzania, respond to physical, sexual, financial, and psychological forms of domestic violence, and whether the type of abuse influences their specific responses. A crosssectional design was employed utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data from 133 male victims with qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Binary logistic regression was used to determine whether the type of violence predicted men’s responses, including retaliation, secrecy, reporting, relationship termination, and seeking another partner. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. Results show that sexual violence significantly predicted relationship termination (β = 0.292, p < 0.05), infidelity (β = 0.307, p < 0.01), withholding financial support (β = 0.288, p < 0.05), and retaliatory violence (β = 0.346, p < 0.01). Verbal/psychological abuse reduced the likelihood of seeking another partner (β = -0.13, p < 0.05), while financial abuse increased help-seeking from religious leaders (β = 0.205, p < 0.05). Formal reporting to police or social welfare was rare. Qualitative findings revealed that men's responses were shaped by social expectations, emotional strain, and the need to preserve identity and control. The study concluded that men’s responses to domestic violence vary depending on the form of abuse and are influenced by masculinity norms. The findings highlighted the importance of recognizing male victimization and developing context-specific support mechanisms
Do neighboring herd sizes influence the incidence of farmerherder conflicts? a case study from Kilosa District, Tanzania
(AJOL, 2025) Tumaini, A.; Ngowi, E.; Kasongi, N.; Urassa, J.; Jeckoniah J.
Farmer-herder conflicts had been widely studied in the Sub-Saharan region, with most literature emphasizing the causes and effects within the origins of these conflicts. However, the impact of neighboring herd sizes on the incidence of these conflicts received limited attention. This study aimed to address this gap by analyzing ward-level data on herd sizes and conflict presence in Kilosa District, Tanzania. Using Logistic Regression Models (LRM) and Geographically Weighted Logistic Regression Models (GWLRM), we estimated the spillover effects of neighboring herd sizes. Our findings revealed that farmer-herder conflicts remained a significant challenge in Kilosa District, with over 50% of the wards experiencing conflicts. Results from both spatial and nonspatial models indicated that neighboring herd size was a strong predictor of these conflicts. An increase in neighboring herd size significantly raised the likelihood of conflict occurrence. The GWLRM results further suggested that the spillover effect of neighboring herd sizes was locationdependent, showing significance in specific areas. The spatial variation in the impact of neighboring herd sizes highlighted the importance of considering local geographical contexts when addressing these conflicts. This study underscored the need for locally tailored strategies to mitigate the incidence of such conflicts effectively. Recommendations included implementing community-based conflict resolution mechanisms, promoting sustainable herd management practices, and enhancing communication between farmers and herders to foster mutual understanding and cooperation. It calls for context-specific interventions to develop effective and sustainable solutions in Kilosa District, Tanzania.
Determinants of empowerment among women producers of improved chickens in Bariadi and Muheza Districts, Tanzania
(ResearchGate, 2024-11) Maunde Regina M.; Macha-Lyimo Joyce G.; Jeckoniah John N.
Women empowerment is a dynamic and multidimensional process whereby various factors could influence differently the extent to which women are empowered in different contexts. Rigorous evidence on the determinants of women empowerment in specific agricultural projects is scantily documented. Therefore, the paper examines the determinants of women empowerment in keeping improved chickens in Bariadi and Muheza Districts. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design. A sample size of 240 women was involved, including 120 beneficiaries of African Chicken Genetic Gain (ACGG) and 120 non-beneficiaries. Data were collected through a questionnaire-based survey, Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and ordinal logistic regression while qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. A Composite Empowerment Index (CEI) was used to gauge women empowerment. Women engaged in the ACGG project were categorized into higher level of empowerment than were non-beneficiaries (CEI = 0.714 and 0.529 respectively). Ordinal logistic regression results showed that age, religion, forms of marriage and involvement in ACGG project were the main predictors for women empowerment (p < 0.05). The findings showed that the ACGG project provided the enabling environment for increasing women’s agency through supporting women’s access to productive resources and women control over the benefits. In addition, ACGG project through Community Innovation Platforms (CIPs) provided opportunities for stakeholders networking, not only along chicken value chain, but also along other value chain among stakeholders responsible for gender integration and community development at large. The study recommends for development stakeholders such as Local Government Authorities (LGAs), Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Faith Based Organizations (FBOs), and private sectors to scale up improved chicken intervention to other areas. These entities should also engage in the provision of capacity building on how to empower women along the chicken value chain at the district level.
Determinants of paddy farmers’ participation in innovation process in Mvomero District, Morogoro, Tanzania
(EAJSSH, 2020-05-28) Mhango Solomon S.; Jeckoniah John N.
Farmers’ participation in rice innovations is an important platform for economic growth. However, information on the farmers’ participation level in the rice innovation process in Tanzania is inadequate. Using a cross-sectional research design the study was conducted in Mvomero District, Morogoro, Tanzania to establish levels of farmers’ participation in the rice innovation process. The study involved 299 randomly selected farmers from different plots of each scheme who participated in the innovation process. Data related to farmers’ participation and their socio-economic characteristics were collected from paddy farmers using structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the IBM-SPSS program and STATA/SE software. The participation index was developed to measure participation levels and an ordinal probit regression model was used to determine factors influencing farmers’ participation in the innovation process. Findings show that the overall level of farmers’ participation by using a five-form participation typology was 61.9% which denoted a medium level. Ordinal probit regression results revealed that there were significant differences between the household size, farming experience, farm size, marital status, land ownership, extension advisory and farmer participation in the innovation process. It is concluded that the participation of farmers in the innovation process was medium meaning that farmers decision making in the inception and adoption of innovations was low. Also it is concluded that farmer participation in Mvomero District is determined by farm size, household size, farmer experience, marital status, land ownership and extension advisory. Extension workers should educate farmers on the benefits of the adoption of introduced innovations to advance farmers’ participation in the innovation process. District land-use planners with collaboration to Dakawa and Mkindo village leadership are advised to monitor irrigation infrastructures to allow usability of marginal land proximity to irrigation schemes for farmers to expand their farm sizes since land is a key factor of paddy production.
Empowering women: small-scale fish business in Mwanza, Tanzania
(Business Excellence and Management, 2023-12) Roche Advera Gibe A.; Jeckoniah, John Nshimba; Massawe Fatihia Ally
This study investigates the impact of small-scale fish business (SSFB) on women's empowerment in Mwanza Region, Tanzania, utilizing a cross-sectional research design. Ilemela and Nyamagana Districts were purposively selected; encompassing wards and fish markets, with 309 respondents sampled using the proportion allocation formula. Data analysis employed the Women’s Empowerment Index (WEI) and Ordinal regression. Five empowerment indicators were considered: participation in household decision-making, control over permanent assets, women’s economic contribution to the household, freedom of movement, and political autonomy. Results indicated a medium level of empowerment among women in small-scale fish business. Notably, higher empowerment levels were observed in participation in household decision-making and freedom of movement, with medium levels in political autonomy and lower levels in asset control. Ordinal regression revealed that type of marriage, contribution to family income, and access to resources significantly predicted women’s empowerment (p < 0.05). The study concludes that SSFB contributes to moderate empowerment in controlling permanent assets, contributing to household income, and political autonomy. Elevated levels of empowerment are observed in women's participation in household decision-making and freedom of movement. The findings underscore the need for policies challenging gender norms to address gender inequalities comprehensively and promote sustainable women's empowerment across all indicators in the study area.
Determinants and disparities in profitability along the potato value chain in South-Western Uganda
(IIARD – International Institute of Academic Research and Development, 2024) Nsiime, Patricia; Ndyetabula,Daniel; Jeckoniah, John
Potato farming, while meeting the demands of new food consumption patterns emanating from Uganda’s urbanization and dietary diversification due to globalization, has potential to provide a steady and reliable stream of income to its value chain actors. However, challenges and disparities such as unequal distribution of profits exist among the various value chain actors (VCAs) and these include seed multipliers, producers, aggregators, traders, and processors. The study aims at assessing determinants of profitability along the PVC in South- Western (SW) Uganda, by examining factors that influence revenues, operational costs and profits. A cross-sectional research design was adopted to collect data from a sample population of 375 respondents from the districts of Kabale, Kisoro, Rubanda and Rukiga using a semi-structured questionnaire. Using the International Business Machine (IBM) Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), primary data was analysed to determine descriptive statistics. In addition, the Logistic Regression Model (LRM) was used to determine the factors associated with PVC actors’ profitability. Study findings show that PVC actors’ revenues, operational costs and profit varied along the value chain with processors, aggregators and traders reporting the highest profits in relation to their operational costs while farmers reported the lowest. Notably, results indicated that sales turnover, lack of access to new knowledge, and failure to realise effective collaboration significantly influenced profitability along the chain. Thus, it is concluded that farmers do not benefit as much as the other actors in the PVC due to factors of power imbalances, market structures and, knowledge access. It is, therefore, recommended that the government of Uganda should formulate strategies to increase producers’ profitability. Such as the introduction and strengthening of farmers’ cooperatives, undertaking focused capacity-building programs, and making policy reforms
Participatory inclusiveness in the potato value chain in South-Western Uganda
(African Scientific Research and Innovation Council, 2025) Nsiime Patricia; Ndyetabula Daniel; Jeckoniah John; Ariho Alex
Smallholder farmers play a major role in the agricultural value chains (AVCs) of developing countries Uganda inclusive, and this has been of great concern to policy makers, development partners, research, and extension workers. The study underscores the evidence of participatory inclusiveness on the potato value chain (PVC) in South-Western (SW) Uganda. The study on which the paper is based adopted a cross- sectional mixed method research (MMR) design whereby both quantitative and qualitative data were collected using a Survey Research Questionnaire (SRQ) and a semi-structured interview (SSI) grid respectively. The population sample of 375 respondents to the SRQs and 79 participants to the SSIs was sourced from four Districts of Kisoro, Rubanda, Kabale and Rukiga in SW Uganda. The study was guided by the Relational Risk Theory (RRT) and the Theory of Incentives (TI) in examining participatory inclusiveness. The concept of participatory inclusiveness was studied along the independent variables (IVs) of collaboration, innovation, support opportunities, and combined participatory inclusiveness and dependent variables (DVs) of actor influencers (AIs) chain influencers (CIs) and environmental influencers (EIs). The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software was used to analyse quantitative data while thematic analysis helped to examine qualitative data. Generally, results from the descriptive statistical analysis and regression analysis through the Ordinary Least of Squares (OLS) model, showed that participatory inclusiveness was evident and affected by the PVC actors’ ability to access new knowledge, existing governance policies, and availability of extension services. The study recommends that individual actors in the PVC should have access to new and appropriate knowledge, chain leaders should enact and pursue good governance policies and the Government of Uganda (GoU) should empower and deploy its extension workers with the appropriate skills, competences, expertise, and necessary tools and equipment to effectively assist PVC actors, especially the small-holders. Development partners like Non- Governmental Organisations (NGOs) need to facilitate effective dissemination of information and influence policies and regulations relevant to PVC.

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