SUAIRE (Sokoine Univ. of Agriculture)
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Evaluation of food safety knowledge among food service workers and microbial contamination of food contact surfaces in University Restaurants in Morogoro Tanzania
No full textJournal ArticleFoodborne illnesses, a significant global health concern, are primarily attributable to microbial contamination. Inadequate food
handling, substandard safety measures, and a lack of awareness exacerbate this issue. This study aimed to evaluate the food
safety knowledge of food service workers and the microbial status of food contact surfaces in university restaurants in Morogoro
Municipality, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted, employing a structured questionnaire and observational
checklist. A total of 40 food service workers from four University restaurants participated. Standard methodologies for microbial
analysis were employed to determine the Total Viable Count and Total Coliform Count, which indicated the degree of
microbiological contamination on food-contact surfaces. SPSS version 27 was used to compute the frequency and percentages.
Results demonstrate that the majority of respondents exhibited exemplary hygienic practices, with 50% regularly washing hands
during meal preparations and 92.5% recognizing the importance of a clean workspace. All participants (100%) utilized protective
gloves and were more cognizant of the hazards of handling food without them. In terms of food safety awareness, Mzumbe
University led with a mean score of 92.80±7.495, reflecting strong food safety knowledge, while Jordan University had the
lowest mean of 68.40±5.15, indicating notable gaps in training and practices. Surprisingly, Mzumbe University restaurants
exhibited the highest level of microbiological contamination, with spoons and plates demonstrating Total Viable Count values of
4.75 and 4.61 log10CFU/ml, respectively, despite a superior score in food safety knowledge that was obtained. Total coliform
contamination on food surfaces was detected in various campus restaurants, with levels ranging from 2.81 to 3.79 log10CFU/ml,
highlighting the necessity for enhanced sanitation measures. To enhance food safety in university restaurants, comprehensive
training for food service staff on hygiene and food safety is essential. Implementing routine microbial monitoring, strict cleaning
protocols, and regular safety audits can significantly reduce foodborne illness risks and ensure a safe dining environment for
patrons
Food safety knowledge and microbial status of food contact surfaces in Primary Schools in Morogoro Municipal, Tanzania
No full textJournal ArticleIntroduction: Several outbreaks of foodborne illnesses to school children have been reported in
different countries where food service workers are quested to be responsible due to poor knowledge
and practices. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the food safety knowledge among food
service workers and microbial status of food contact surfaces in private primary school in Morogoro
Municipal, Tanzania.
Methods: This study involved 60 food service workers who were purposively selected from 8 private
primary schools. A structured questionnaire and checklist were employed to assess their food safety
knowledge, and a total of 75 samples from food contact surfaces (cups, spoons, and plates) were
collected from school kitchens for microbiological analysis.
Results: The study involved 60 food service workers, with the majority being female (73.3%) and
married (65%). Education levels ranged from primary to secondary school (41.7%), with the least
illiterate (3.3%). The survey demonstrated a significant level of food safety knowledge, with an average
score of 81%. The study indicates that food service workers recognize the need for hand hygiene, with
96.6% washing their hands before and after food preparation, and 96.6% asserting that it mitigates the
risk of food contamination. The study found moderate contamination levels in cups and plates, with
mean total viable count (TVC) values ranging from 2.19 to 2.67 log CFU/ml, and total coliform count
(TCC) in various schools (0 to 1.23 log CFU/ml). E. coli contamination in food service indicates gaps in
hygienic practices, despite workers' awareness of cleanliness and personal hygiene. E. coli
contamination was detected in cups in school A and E, with 20% contamination in cups and 40%
contamination in plates, indicating possible faecal contamination.
Conclusion: The study found that while school food service personnel have a moderate food safety
knowledge, they still struggle with microbial contamination on food contact surfaces. The detection
of E. coli on certain surfaces highlights deficiencies in hygiene protocols, possibly due to insufficient
training, resources, or incentives
Stakeholders’ perceptions about the competences of open and Distance Learning Graduates
No full textINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE Page 4643-4653Education plays a vital role in individual and national development. Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is an
educational approach that enables learners to study independently within their own environments without
attending conventional classes. In ODL, the learning is facilitated through provided course outlines or modules.
This quantitative study investigates the perceptions of key stakeholders, including ODL learners, employers, and
the head of a nearby school, regarding the skills, values, and competencies of ODL graduates, as well as their
ability to perform assigned tasks. The study was conducted at the Institute of Adult Education learning centres
found in Dar es Salaam, Mbeya, and Ruvuma, with a total of 622 respondents. The data was collected through
closed-ended questionnaires and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version
23. Descriptive statistics, including tables, frequencies, and percentages, were used to present the data, while
inferential analysis employed the Pearson Chi-square test to determine relationships between variables. The
results indicate that stakeholders, including employers and ODL learners, expressed confidence in the innovative
skills developed by ODL graduates. The heads of the nearby schools were particularly confident with graduates'
communication skills. Employers showed the highest confidence in the graduates’ ability to effectively manage
assigned tasks. Similarly, the heads of the nearby schools were confident in the ODL program for equipping
graduates with quality and sustainable skills to serve their communities. They also recognized the graduates'
ability to demonstrate a high level of competence when taking on responsibilities. ODL learners consistently
expressed confidence in nearly all aspects of the program’s outcomes. The study recommends that ODL
institutions partner with employers to understand the skills ODL graduates should possess to succeed in the
workplace. Additionally, ODL institutions should ensure that their programs are of high quality so that all
graduates meet consistent standards of professional readiness in the labour market
Assessing the effectiveness of employable learning pathways in vocatinal education and training in VETA Lindi and Mtwara Centers
No full textInternational Journal of Education and Social Science Research Vol. 7, Issue.5, Sep-Oct 2024, p no. 62-73This study assessed the effectiveness of employable learning pathways in Vocational Education and
Training (VET) in two Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) centres; Lindi and
Mtwara in Tanzania. VET plays a crucial role in youth employment, but there are challenges in
ensuring that graduates' skills align with market demands. The study employed a survey research
design and gathered data from 123 respondents, including 116 trainees and seven instructors, through
closed questionnaires. The study was guided by human capital theory. Data were analysed using
SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to assess the
effectiveness of the curriculum in teaching methods and learning resources at those centres, as well
as to evaluate resource availability. Findings revealed that work-based learning particularly industrial
attachments positively impacts skills development, but language barriers, outdated equipment and
inadequate resources hinder effectiveness. The study concluded that there is a need for improved
language support programs, and modern facilities to enhance VET outcomes. The study recommends
that improving infrastructure in vocational institutes and resource compatibility with industry
standards can better equip students for the job market, thus reducing youth unemployment in Tanzania
Competences of agricultural extension agents in dissemination of climate change adaptation strategies in Misungwi district, Tanzania
No full textJournal articleThis paper assessed the awareness and competencies of extension agents regarding climate
change in Tanzania, utilizing questionnaires from 64 agents and analysing data through descriptive
statistics. Results indicated a high knowledge level, with an overall mean score of 6.36; 70.3%
identified drought and extreme weather as significant climate change effects, and 82.8%
recognized soil conservation as vital for adaptation. However, knowledge gaps were noted in crop
diversification (53.1%) and climate-resilient crop varieties (46.9%). Skills assessment yielded a
mean score of 6.8, with 70.3% competent in recommending mulching and drip irrigation, and 75.0%
guiding farmers in organic farming. Attitudes towards climate adaptation were generally positive, with a mean score of 3.97; 73.5% valued continuous learning. Yet, practice inconsistencies
emerged, as only 23.4% frequently recommended climate-resilient practices and 37.5% regularly
implemented innovative solutions. Institutional support was inadequate, with the highest support
observed in policy availability (54.7%), while the lowest was in digital tool provision, as none of the
extension agents (100%) had access to such resources. The findings suggest that enhanced
training, improved communication, and better resource allocation are essential for strengthening
extension agents' roles in aiding farmers' climate change adaptation in Tanzania
Integrated agricultural development strategies: assessing forage and seed supply chain dynamics at vikuge pasture seed farm, Kibaha, Tanzania
No full textProceedings of the 6th Scientific Conference of Rangeland Society of Tanzania (RST) held at EDEMA Hotel, Morogoro Tanzania 15th and 16th April, 2024, pp. 7-40This study investigated the integrated agricultural development
practices at Vikuge Pasture Seed Farm in Kibaha, Tanzania,
focusing on the supply and commercialization of forage and
seeds. It identified critical challenges that hampered effective
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practices influenced local agricultural dynamics. Utilizing a
mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 96
respondents through key informant interviews and focus group
discussions, supplemented by a thorough literature review. A
market system and value chain approach were adopted to analyze
the flow of inputs from production to consumption, aiming to
uncover the interconnected activities that enhance economic
viability. Statistical findings revealed a remarkable 25% increase
in annual revenue attributed to innovative agronomic practices
and market-oriented strategies, underscoring the strong economic
feasibility of the farm's operations. Qualitative insights from the
focus group discussions highlighted the socio-economic implications of integrated practices, indicating improved access
to high-quality forage seeds, enhanced livestock productivity, and
positive ripple effects on local economies. Participants reported
increased income and job creation, validating the transformative
potential of integrated agricultural development initiatives. This
study not only contributes to the understanding of
commercialization strategies in Tanzanian agriculture but also
provides empirical support for policy frameworks aimed at
promoting sustainable agricultural practices that can elevate
local livelihoods and economic resilience
Navigating grassroots innovation journey in Tanzania: factors shaping innovation
No full textJournal articleGrassroots innovation is increasingly recognized for its potential to address localized challenges
and promote sustainable development. This study addressed the factors influencing grassroots
innovation journeys in Tanzania, utilizing PESTLE and SWOT analysis frameworks. A cross-
sectional design was used to collect qualitative data guided by a semi-structured questionnaire from
35 grassroots innovators. 16 innovators were purposively selected from the Tanzania Commission
for Science and Technology (COSTECH) innovators database, 11 were purposively selected from Mashindano ya Kitaifa ya Sayansi, Teknolojia na Ubunifu (MAKISATU) databases and 8 innovators
were purposively selected from 2020, 2021 and 2022 and participants in the 45 th and 46th Dar es
Salaam International Trade Fair Exhibition (SABASABA) in 2021 and 2022. Key informant
interviews and observations supplemented the collected data, identifying different prototypes
according to the stages of innovation. Innovators were selected from 11 sectors: Agriculture,
Information and Communication Technology, Environment, Energy, Engineering, Education, Health,
Security, Transport, Industrial and Water. The findings highlight the critical role of political support,
economic stability, technological access and community engagement in fostering successful
grassroots innovation journeys. The study offers policy recommendations to enhance the
effectiveness and sustainability of grassroots innovation initiatives in Tanzania. Emphasizing the
need for stable funding, robust legal frameworks and holistic approach to address multifaceted
challenges. This includes policy reforms, economic incentives, societal attitude shifts, technological
support, legal clarity and infrastructural improvements. By tackling these issues comprehensively,
Tanzania can create a more vibrant and inclusive innovation ecosystem, unlocking the potential of
its innovators to drive sustainable development and economic growth
Women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management interventions in Chemba district, Tanzania
No full textJournal articleThis study examined the nature of women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management
interventions in Chemba District in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods
research design involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Data were collected using a survey of
137 women groundnut farmers. Also, qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and
key informant interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Specifically,
66.5% of women respondents were involved in the aflatoxin management interventions currently being
implemented in the study area, while 33.5% reported no participation in such interventions. Also, the
findings show that the recent TANIPAC project interventions were perceived positively to bring anticipated
positive economic changes and lessen aflatoxin contamination in the food system. Overall, women's
participation in interventions is crucial for effectively managing aflatoxin and reducing contamination within
the food system
Determining factors influencing learners' decisions to develop their professionals through Open and Distance Learning at the learning centres.
No full textInternational Journal of Curriculum and Instruction pp. 434–452Open and Distance Learning (ODL) is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative mode of education in
Tanzania, especially among the adult working class who wish to advance their professions without attending
full-time classes. This quantitative study aims to determine the factors that influence learners to pursue
professional development through ODL at learning centres. The study involved 576 continuing and
graduated diploma learners from the Institute of Adult Education in Mbeya, Ruvuma, and Dar es Salaam. A
closed questionnaire was used to collect data from respondents. Key descriptive statistics were used,
including tables, frequencies, and percentages, to analyse and present the findings using the Statistical
Package for Social Sciences (SPSS version 23). The findings reveal that respondents’ socioeconomic status,
age, gender, marital status, and region significantly influence their decision to study through the ODL mode.
Considering the needs and preferences of learners regarding this mode of learning is crucial. This
consideration will encourage more learners to use open and distance learning, which will increase enrolment
and lower dropout rates. The study recommends that the provision of good administrative support services
and well-equipped offices at the learning centres will motivate learners’ choices toward the ODL mode of
learning. Besides, adequate and qualified staff should be employed in the main offices at the regional centres
to promote efficient delivery of services to ODL learner
Models for estimating volume of Tectona grandis at Longuza and Mtibwa forest plantations in Tanzania
No full textJournal ArticleThis study aimed to develop and validate
allometric equations for estimating total and
merchantable volumes of teak (Tectona
grandis L. f.) trees in two major statemanaged
forest plantations in Tanzania,
Longuza in the Tanga Region and Mtibwa
in the Morogoro Region. It addresses the
existing gap of the absence of accurate
volume models required for the reliable
estimation of total teak tree volume, which
is critical for effective forest management
and planning. A total of 177 destructively
sampled trees were used to fit non-linear
regression models incorporating diameter at
breast height (D) and total height (H) as
predictor variables. Site-specific and general
models were developed and evaluated.
Models that included both D and H
outperformed those based solely on D,
providing more unbiased volume estimates
across diameter classes and sites. The bestperforming
models exhibited high
explanatory power (R² ≥ 0.96) and low
prediction errors (PE% < 3%). The H-D
relationship reveals differences in tree
allometry between the two sites, with taller
trees on average in Longuza than in
Mtibwa. The site-specific H-D and volume
equations are recommended where
available. In the absence of such models, the
generalised equations developed herein
provide a reliable alternative across teak
plantations in Tanzania