East African Journal Of Science, Technology and Innovation
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The efficacy of management practices in combating mangrove forest degradation: A case study from Pangani District-Tanzania
Full text linkMangrove degradation management poses a global challenge, particularly in developing countries. In Tanzania, various local government institutions (LGIs) have been established to address mangrove forest degradation. The study assesses the role of local government Institutions (LGIs) in managing mangrove forest degradation in Pangani-Tanga, and the challenges they encounter in improving their efficacy. Data were collected through structured interviews with 358 households, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions with key informants. The study identifies the key LGIs involved in mangrove management at the district and village levels, such as the District Environmental Office, District Forestry Office, Fisheries Office, and Beach Management Units (BMUs). These institutions have made strides in enhancing mangrove management through different practices such as education, training, and restoration activities. In general, these practices were moderately practiced. However, it still varied in some study sites, for instance issuing permits for cutting mangroves in Kumba was low by 30.3% compared to Bweni and Mkwajuni. Furthermore, the mangrove condition varies in Pangani, with the condition worsening in Kumba village at 32.4% compared to Mkwajuni at 47.3% possibly due to urbanization and over-dependence. But across the three villages, the mangrove condition is moderate by 53.5 %. The study also notes significant challenges LGI faces, including limited funding, high demand for mangrove products like charcoal, and conflicting interests among stakeholders. The study concludes that LGIs have contributed moderately to improvement in mangrove conditions, but ongoing challenges limit their effectiveness. The study recommends community-led initiatives, alternative livelihood options, and strict law enforcement to strengthen long-term mangrove conservation and reduce overdependence on mangrove resources
Upgrading graphite quality from Chenjere-Ruangwa ore through froth flotation techniques
Full text linkTanzania is endowed with graphite deposits found in Mahenge-Morogoro, Bunyu-Mtwara, Nachu and Chenjere-Ruangwa. In Chenjere, the graphite resource is approximately 500 million metric tons with 7.75% of total graphitic carbon grade (TGC) content. The demand in the global market needs a high-grade graphite of at least 90% TGC content. However, the graphite found in Chenjere is of low grade (7.75%). The present study aims to upgrade Chenjere’s graphite to meet global market standards. To attain this objective, froth flotation was selected as an upgrading method. The sample was collected at Chenjere-Ruangwa, well prepared, and later upgraded through flotation. Flotation experiments were designed using the Box Behnken design, with controlled variables being particle size, collector, and frother concentrations while the TGC was the response. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was utilized to assess the relationship between the experimental factors and model response. The results revealed that the graphite from Chenjere can be upgraded to > 90% TGC content under the optimal experimental conditions of -75 µm particle size, 990 g/t kerosene as a collector, and 150 g/t methyl isobutyl carbinol (MIBC) as a frother, hence meeting the required standard. In addition, the total graphitic recovery of 84% was obtained as the maximum recovery. In light of the potential benefits of graphite in advancing industrialization, this study strongly recommends using froth flotation technology to upgrade the graphite ore from Chenjere to meet the global market specifications in terms of quality
Status of brucellosis in a dairy cattle herd with history of abortion in Morogoro District, Tanzania
Full text linkBovine brucellosis, caused by Brucella bacteria, is a zoonotic disease with major public health and economic impacts, including decreased milk production and reproductive losses such as abortion. It can spread through milk consumption, posing health risks to humans. This study aimed to investigate the presence of Brucella infection in a dairy herd with a history of abortions and the risk practices associated with bovine brucellosis. A cross-sectional study, conducted from January to March 2024, investigated a dairy herd of 36 cattle, with 47.22% (17/36) identified as adult cows. Milk, blood, and serum samples were collected. Cattle over six months old (n=31) were tested for brucellosis using both the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and competitive ELISA (c-ELISA), with both tests performed on the same samples. Brucella DNA was detected using Real-time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) targeting the IS711 insertion sequence. Specific genes, BruAB_0168 and BMEII0466, were amplified to identify Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis, respectively. Cohen’s Kappa statistic was used to assess the level of agreement between RBPT and c-ELISA results. A focus group discussion used to assess potential risk practices associated with brucellosis focusing on abortion history, handling and disposal of aborted materials, management of aborting and sick cows, contact with other livestock and wildlife, routine health monitoring, and biosecurity practices. As the study targeted a single farm, potential risk practices were evaluated qualitatively rather than statistically. Serological testing revealed Brucella exposure in the herd, with 41.94% (13/31) testing positive using the RBPT and 74.19% (23/31) testing positive using c-ELISA. qPCR identified Brucella DNA in three out of 36 serum samples, with one sample specifically confirmed as Brucella abortus. These findings confirm Brucella infection in the herd. A comprehensive reproductive health strategy and ongoing monitoring are needed to improve herd health and reduce economic losses
Performance Analysis of MIMO-OTFS with Advanced Detection Techniques for High-Mobility Wireless Communication
Full text linkOrthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) has been the dominant multicarrier transmission technique in wireless communication; however, its susceptibility to inter-carrier interference and Doppler spread limits reliability under high-mobility conditions. Orthogonal Time Frequency Space (OTFS) modulation, in contrast to conventional time–frequency domain schemes, transforms information symbols into the delay–Doppler (DD) domain via a symplectic finite Fourier transform. This enables the effective exploitation of the channel’s inherent sparsity and enhancing robustness against doubly selective fading effects. Extending this framework, a Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO)-OTFS system is developed to enhance spatial diversity and throughput in rapidly varying propagation environments.
Specifically, this study investigates the Bit Error Rate (BER) performance of OTFS under the Extended Vehicular A (EVA) channel model. The results are benchmarked against conventional Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (OFDM) operating over a Rayleigh fading channel. The scope of the analysis is broadened to encompass MIMO-OTFS systems with 2×2 configuration, an Expectation Propagation (EP)-based detection strategy, and a Deep Learning (DL)-oriented detection framework.
The robustness of the MIMO-OTFS system is further substantiated through simulations conducted across diverse mobility conditions, with consistent performance observed even at vehicular velocities reaching 120 km/h. Additionally, this work examines the incorporation of Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access (NOMA) into the MIMO-OTFS framework. The MIMO-OTFS-NOMA configuration, particularly for users with favorable channel conditions (near users), exhibits exceptional BER performance. The SE versus SNR curves confirm that DL-aided MIMO-OTFS achieves the best trade-off between reliability and efficiency. Collectively, the results underscore the potential of MIMO-OTFS, as a highly resilient and spectrally efficient solution for next-generation wireless systems operating under severe channel time variability and mobility constraints
Production and experimental characterization of homogeneous and composite briquettes from fruit processing waste
Full text linkGrowth in agricultural produce processing continues to drive up energy consumption and contributes significantly to climate change. Fruits, in particular, are processed to enhance their market value and extend their shelf life; however, fruit processing generates substantial amounts of organic waste, creating a waste management challenge despite its potential as a renewable energy resource. This study focused on converting orange, mango, and jackfruit waste into briquettes using cassava starch, cornstarch, and clay as binders, all locally available. A manual lever press was employed for compaction to produce both homogeneous and composite briquettes. The briquettes were then evaluated for their physical, chemical, mechanical, and thermal properties at varying binder concentrations. Moisture content, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and ash content were analyzed using thermogravimetric analysis. Calorific values were determined using bomb calorimetry. Mechanical strength was assessed using compressive strength and drop strength tests, while thermal performance was evaluated through water boiling tests and burning rate measurements. Fixed carbon ranged from 22.87% to 62.06%, ash content from 6.55% to 57.20%, volatile matter from 15.71% to 39.41%, and moisture content from 4.21% to 13.66%. Calorific values ranged from 17.55 to 32.24 MJ/kg. Compressive strength varied from 0.125 to 0.471 N/mm², bulk density from 413.21 to 580.1 kg/m³, and drop strength from 27.74% to 88.84%. The study confirms that jackfruit, orange, and mango waste are viable biomass feedstock for briquette production. Among the binders tested, cassava starch consistently yielded briquettes with superior mechanical and thermal properties, making it the binder of choice for optimizing performance in small-scale briquette production systems
Influence of Land Use and Land Cover Change on Water Quality in Lake Tana Basin, Upper Blue Nile, Northwest Ethiopia
Full text linkLake Tana Basin, located in northwest Ethiopia, is an important ecological and hydrological system supporting diverse plant and animal life. It is the source of the Blue Nile River, an essential water resource offering multiple services to millions of people in Ethiopia, Sudan, and Egypt. However, due to changes in land use and land cover (LULC), the basin is at risk of Water quality deterioration. The study adopted a mixed-methods research design that comprised of a cross-sectional survey, ecological survey and finally desktop research that involved literature search, to investigate Land Use/Land Cover (LULC) changes and their impact on water quality parameters such as Turbidity and Chlorophyll a. Landsat 5 thematic mapper (TM) and Landsat 8 operational land imager (OLI) were used to generate temporal LULC change for 20 years (2004 – 2024). At the same period, the surface reflectance products of MODIS Terra (MOD09A1) and measured selected water quality parameters were used to develop equations for predicting time series water quality. The equations were developed, validated and adopted to predict Turbidity and Chlorophyll a respectively. The relationship of LULC change and the dynamics of Turbidity and Chlorophyll a concentration were analyzed by ANOVA, which indicated that the increase in Turbidity was highly influenced by the rise in Agricultural land and least influenced by the increase of Bare-land at a P-value of 0.00892 and 0.655 respectively. Similarly, the surge in chlorophyll a concentration was highly influenced by the increase in the Built-up area and least affected by the increase in Bare-land at a P-value of 0.0049 and 0.918 respectively. The study recommends implementing sustainable LU and water management strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of LC changes, such as deforestation, increased agricultural land, and urban expansion, leading to heightened water turbidity and chlorophyll a concentration in Lake Tana over
Community Awareness of Invasive Alien Plant Species in Ngorongoro, Manyara, and Tarangire Conservation Areas
Full text linkInvasive alien species are a major driver of biodiversity loss, despite global, regional, and domestic efforts to address them. This study aims to assess community awareness and engagement in combating invasive alien plant species in Tanzania, using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey of 208 respondents. Eight villages around Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara ecosystems were surveyed using questionnaires to gather information on awareness of Invasive Alien Plant Species presence, affected areas, means of spread, harmful effects, and community involvement. Results show that over 65% of respondents were aware of Invasive Alien Plant Species, with impacts observed on farms and grazing lands. However, there was limited knowledge about specific harmful effects. Community involvement in combating Invasive Alien Plant Species was lacking, with minimal direct engagement from authorities and stakeholders. Control methods primarily involved burning and cutting, while biological and chemical approaches were less favored. The study underscores the need for enhanced community involvement and recommends greater collaboration between stakeholders to effectively manage Invasive Alien Plant Species and mitigate their impacts on ecosystems
Prevalence of Tuberculosis Among Animals Selected from Slaughterhouses in Mbarara district, Uganda
Full text linkTuberculosis (TB) is considered one of the most widespread infectious diseases and a leading cause of death and morbidity in both human and animal populations worldwide. The 2022 WHO global report ranked Uganda as a high burden TB country, with an estimated incidence of 198/100,000. The disease is caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex, a group of seven species of the bacteria including Mycobacterium bovis the cause of bovine-type tuberculosis (bovine TB). Mycobacterium bovis has a wide host range infecting cattle, goats, cats, dogs, buffalo, sheep, humans and wildlife. Slaughterhouses have been reported to be potential focus areas for public health monitoring. The aims of this study were to: 1) determine the effectiveness of slaughterhouses serving as active bio-surveillance centers for bovine TB and 2) determine the prevalence of TB among cattle, sheep and goats slaughtered at selected facilities. The sampling design was purposive, targeting Mbarara, a major cattle-producing district in Uganda. Also, Mbarara was accessible, as most of the country had restricted movement of people and animals due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Blood, lymph nodes and lung tissue samples were obtained from 29 cattle, 17 goats and 10 sheep from three slaughter facilities and tested using gross pathology and Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining. The overall prevalence of Bovine TB, based on a positive lymph node or lung, was 8.9%% (5/56) and was higher in goats and sheep than cattle; In lymph nodes specifically, the TB prevalence was 3.4% (1/29) in cattle, 11.8%(2/17) in goats, and 10% (1/10) in sheep, whereas for lung tissue, it was 3.4% (1/29) in cattle and 17.6% (3/17) in goats; however, the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Slaughterhouses could serve as active surveillance centers for important diseases such as bovine TB. However, additional control protocols may be warranted to reduce TB prevalence in the country
Modeling Spatial and Temporal Dynamics of Land use and Land cover in the Songwe Sub-basin, Tanzania, using Cellular Automata Markov Model
Full text linkUsing the Cellular Automata (CA) Markov Model in combination with Geographic Information System (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) technologies, this study examines the spatial and temporal dynamics of land use and land cover (LULC) in the Songwe sub-basin, Tanzania. By combining historical data spanning from 1990 to 2020 at a spatial resolution of 30 meters, the study aims to forecast future LULC changes up to the year 2100. GIS technologies made it easier to spatially analyze and visualize these changes, and LULC data was used to calibrate the CA-Markov model with transition probabilities taken from the historical era. The results highlight significant land use transitions, with significant transitions from woodland and natural vegetation to agricultural land and urban areas. These changes are largely driven by population growth and the rising demand for food production. Forest cover and woodland areas have notably decreased by 54.01% and 59.10%, respectively, while agricultural land has increased by 216.97%. Projections indicate that by 2100, forests and woodlands will largely disappear, being replaced by agricultural land. Additionally, significant reductions in wetlands and water bodies are expected. Rapid urbanization is anticipated to intensify the degradation of natural ecosystems, leading to further strain on hydrological systems. The study recommends the implementation of stronger conservation policies, including the expansion of protected areas for vital habitats, and the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices such as agroforestry and conservation tillage. To enhance long-term ecological resilience, the study also emphasizes the need for ecosystem-based management approaches that prioritize water resource preservation and biodiversity. Additionally, involving local communities in land management decisions is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of natural resources and ecosystem services in the Songwe sub-basin
Post-harvest handling practices, moisture content, and aflatoxin levels of cassava from selected hammer milling centers in Uganda
Full text linkCassava (Manihot esculenta) is a staple crop of significant economic and nutritional importance in Uganda. However, it is highly perishable, and root tubers are prone to rapid post-harvest deterioration due to microbial contamination. Poor handling practices such as drying on bare ground and improper storage, often contribute to aflatoxigenic fungi proliferation. Aflatoxins, secondary metabolites of these fungi are linked to liver cancer, immune suppression, and stunted growth in humans and animals. Thus, regular ingestion of aflatoxin-laden foodstuffs including cassava poses a serious public health risk. Despite awareness, aflatoxin monitoring in food matrices remains limited, especially in developing countries. This study assessed post-harvest handling practices, moisture content, and aflatoxin contamination and concentration levels in 120 randomly collected cassava samples from eight regional districts of Uganda. Post-harvest handling data were obtained through structured interviews with cassava processors at randomly selected milling centers. Moisture content was analyzed using the Hot-Air Oven, while aflatoxin contamination was determined through Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC). The Competitive-ELISA technique quantified aflatoxin concentrations. Handling practices included sun-drying on bare ground (9%), floor storage (44%), and 74 % of the mill caretakers having reported processing of moldy cassava for human consumption. Milling center caretakers relied on ineffective traditional methods [biting, touching, and breaking tests] and none reported the use of a moisture meter to assess moisture content. Moisture content ranged from 7.14% to 27.63%. Aflatoxins were detected in 99.2% of samples with regional variations in contamination levels. However, total aflatoxin concentrations remained within acceptable limits (10 ppb by UNBS; 20 ppb by FDA-USA; 15 ppb by FAO/WHO). A weak positive correlation between moisture content and aflatoxin levels was obtained, suggesting contamination may have occurred during drying. Despite regulatory compliance, widespread contamination highlights the need for improved post-harvest practices and continued aflatoxin surveillance in foods to safeguard public health