SUAIRE (Sokoine Univ. of Agriculture)
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Community responses to corona virus disease (covid-19) in Africa in the face of “infodemic”: a scoping review
No full textJournal ArticleGlobally, Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) has significantly affected communities in various
aspects. The World Health Organization proposed different measures to prevent the pandemic.
However, these measures in some instances have not effectively minimized the impacts of COVID-
19, due to innumerable factors, inter alia, considerable “infodemic” related to myths, misinfor
mation, and misconceptions. Knowledge of the “infodemic” on COVID -19 can lead to effective
interventions to rid societies of COVID-19, hence reduction of COVID-19-related risks and out
comes. This article explores the “COVID-19 infodemic” that affected community responses to
COVID-19 in Africa. The study employed a scoping review approach involving peer-reviewed
articles from numerous search engines and databases. The keywords involved in the search
query were: “COVID-19 infodemic, COVID-19 false news, COVID-19 in Africa, ‘knowledge of
COVID-19, ‘myths, misinformation, and misconceptions on COVID-19, ‘history of COVID-19’,
‘community responses to COVID-19 in Africa”. Findings show that 5G technology transferred
coronavirus, high temperature and alcohol can kill coronavirus, blacks are immune to COVID-19,
COVID-19 vaccine development has been rushed hence not very effective and safe and also causes
infertility. Diverse community responses have been registered which in some ways frustrated
efforts in combating the pandemic. Therefore, the “infodemic” consisting of myths, mis
conceptions, and misinformation have been resulting from the history of COVID-19 which first
affected white people more than blacks. Also, low knowledge of how the virus is transmitted and
affect human being; and the notion that COVID-19 affects richer than poor people, hence since
white people are richer than black people then they were the first to be affected by the pandemic.
Obviously in presence of such myths, misconceptions, and misinformation; community responses
in combating COVID-19 have not been very effective in Africa. For these interventions to be
effective, collective efforts involving various stakeholders to raise awareness of COVID-19 are
needed
Factors influencing the population density and distribution of udzungwa red colobus monkey (piliocolobus. gordonorum) in magombera forest reserve, Tanzania
No full textMSc DissertationPrimates perform essential roles in forest ecosystems such as
enhancing seed dispersion which is important in the regeneration of
fragmented forests and improving soil quality through defecation.
Despite their important role in forest ecosystem, they are faced with
a greater risk of extinction as a result of massive forest loss and
degradation which are greatly influenced by anthropogenic activities
such as logging, bush fires, agriculture and settlement expansion.
Furthermore, forest loss may be attributed by natural changes such
as climate change, droughts and tree die back which may result to
changes in forest cover or tree species composition. As an outcome
of all these, their population and distribution has been directly
impacted, increasing their risk of becoming extinct. Kilombero cluster
is one of the biodiversity hotspot areas as it comprises of several
protected areas that harbors the vulnerable P. gordonorum such as
Udzungwa National Park and the fragmented Magombera Forest
Reserve (MFR). Therefore, this study was conducted within
Kilombero cluster to identify the population density of P. gordonorum
in MFR, identify factors influencing the population density of P.
gordonorum in MFR and assess the impact of climate change on the
current and future distribution of suitable habitats for P. gordonorum
in Kilombero cluster. Systematic distance sampling technique using
line transect was used to obtain data for estimating population
density. Where a total of 15 transects were established in three
habitat types. Along each transect information about primate
sightings, occurrence locations, human disturbances and vegetation
structure were collected. Furthermore, a combination of field surveys
and data downloaded from Global Biodiversity Information Facility
was used to identify the current and future distribution of P.
gordonorum under the influence of climate change. Shannon Weiner
index was used to compute tree species diversity, Allometric models
was used for above ground biomass estimation, Generalized Linear
Model with Gaussian error function was run to determine the
influence of predictor variables on the density of P. gordonorum and non-parametric Kruskal Wallis test was used to test for significant
differences in every predictor variable. The results from this study
showed that the average density of P. gordonorum in MFR was
(27.4±22.12) individuals per km2 and it varied among the three
habitat types namely semi-evergreen, semi-deciduous and wooded
grassland with a density estimate of (44±11.3) individuals per km2,
(5.5±7.4) individuals per km2 and (1±0.5) individuals per km2
respectively. Vegetation structure, availability of preferred food tree
species and human disturbances was seen to influence the density
of P. gordonorum. Furthermore, findings from this study revealed
that, currently, the distribution of suitable habitats for the Udzungwa
red colobus monkey covers an area of 1 142 400 ha for highly
suitable habitats and these areas will decline to 392 000 ha and to
96 000 ha in 2050 and 2070 respectively according to RCP 8.5.
From the findings, isotherm and precipitation of the wettest month
were seen to greatly influence the current and future potential
distribution of suitable habitats for P. gordonorum. This study has
provided sufficient information on the status of P. gordonorum
population in MFR. And the impact of climate change on the
distribution of P. gordonorum. Furthermore, the study has helped in
the identification of high priority areas for conservation of the
vulnerable P. gordonorum. Finally, the study recommends for strong
management and conservation initiatives for those areas that P.
gordonorum have been predicted to occur. Such initiatives should
involve improved management capacity in the existing nature forest
reserves and village owned forests, protection of the existing wildlife
corridors to ensure habitat connectivity, the balance between socio-
economic gains and conservation and national wise mitigation
strategies such as the reduction of greenhouse gas emission. Thus, this
study calls for further research on mapping the distribution of
P.gordonorum with an account of climatic variables, vegetation
variables such as Normalized Vegetation Index (NDVI), percentage tree
cover, topographic variables, and proximity to human disturbances
Understanding teachers' and students' perceptions on the re-entry of teen mother-students in public secondary schools of Dodoma City
No full textResearch paperThis research study adopted a Concurrent Triangulation Design based on a mixed approach to
investigate the perceptions of teachers and students regarding the re-entry of mother-students
into public secondary schools in Dodoma City. The study involved a sample of 489 students
and 104 teachers from ordinary secondary schools, eight teachers, and seven mother-students
from secondary school centers. Systematic, simple random, purposive, and stratified sampling
techniques were used to draw the categorical samples from the population. Data were
analyzed using descriptive through counts and frequencies and thematic procedures were
adopted for qualitative data analysis. The demographic analysis of school students and
teachers revealed that the teaching profession in Dodoma City is predominantly female,
which may influence the support provided to teen mother-students upon re-entry. The findings
showed different perceptions towards the re-entry of mother-students. However, both teachers
and students recognize the importance of providing educational opportunities to these young
mothers. Alternatively, concerns regarding stigmatization, financial barriers, and parental
attitudes were also identified. To foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment. The
study recommended organizing workshops for teachers to sensitize them about the challenges
faced by mother-students, developing comprehensive support programs, involving parents in
the re-entry process, and providing targeted financial assistance. Addressing these issues can
empower teen mother-students to pursue their education and contribute to breaking the cycle
of poverty while promoting gender equality. By implementing the proposed recommendations,
educational policymakers and stakeholders can create a conducive environment for the
successful reintegration of mother students into the formal education system
Teachers, pedagogical, skills, students, attitudes, towardstechnology, enhanced, teaching, learning, Morogoro Secondary, Schools, Tanzania
No full textInternational Journal of Education Humanities and Social Science Vol. 7, No. 02; 2024Technology provides pedagogically enhanced tools and facilities, allowing teachers to more
effectively replace traditional methods of instruction. Technology in teaching and learning is
essential for Tanzania's development. The Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology
encourages technology-based learning in national curricula through a wide range of initiatives.
This study examined teachers pedagogical skills and students' attitudes towards the use of
technology to improve teaching and learning in Morogoro Municipal Secondary Schools. The
study employed a survey design involving a sample of 140 municipal secondary school students
and 40 teachers. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for analysing
descriptive statistics. The findings indicate that smart phones are the most widely used
technologically advanced tool among teachers. While teachers use the internet to find instructional
materials, LCD projectors for lesson delivery, and online platforms for flipped classrooms, the
study found that the majority of them lack the technologically enhanced pedagogical skills needed
to deliver lessons online, such as the use of digital technologies to promote inclusive education,
the use of learning management systems (LMS), and the selection and use of appropriate software
tools for instruction. The majority of respondents felt positive about technology-enhanced teaching
and learning, despite concerns about bullying when using social media for learning purposes.
Based on these findings, the study suggests teacher training programmes to enable successful
technology-enhanced teaching and learning. The study also suggests that school administrators
adopt safety measures and educate students on how to protect themselves when engaging in online
learning platforms
Population ecology and threats of bee species across vegetation types in Mgori Forest Reserve, Singida District, Tanzania
No full textMSc DissertationBees are among pollinator groups of importance in promoting and
maintaining biodiversity and food production through provision of
pollination services. This makes identifying and monitoring
communities of bee species, a crucial step in the process of
conservation. Forest vegetation types are among determinant of bee
species composition and diversity. With the continued loss of
suitable habitats for bees, conservation of bee species should begin
with information on their presence. Mgori forest reserve is
surrounded by villages with farms planted with crops such as
sunflower, which is pollinator dependent, hence they benefit from
pollination services from bees inhabiting the forest. To ensure
inclusive conservation for the survival of bee species this study
aimed at determining the composition, diversity and threats of bee
species in Mgori forest reserve, across the vegetation types namely
open woodland, thickets and the mosaic of open woodland and
thickets, which are found within the forest reserve.
Systematic sampling was used in the study, whereby plots were
established in the forest. To collect bees on each plot, pan traps and
sweep nets were used.Threats to bees were also observed and
recorded on each plot, thereafter plots with observed threats were
characterised as disturbed plots and those with no observed threats
were characterised as undisturbed sites. Additionally, coordinates
and elevation point of the sites were also recorded. Bee species
composition was the list of bees identified. Bee species richness and
abundance were the number of species recorded and the number of
individuals per species respectively. Shannon-Wiener diversity index
was used to calculate the diversity of bees in the forest for disturbed
and undisturbed sites. Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare
Richness and Abundance of bee species, across open woodland,
thickets and the mosaic of thickets and open woodland and the
Duncan post hoc was performed for both species richness and
abundance. Detrended correspondence analysis was used to find
the relationship between species composition and environmental variables and generalized linear mixed effect models were used to
find the relationship between environmental conditions and bee
species richness and abundance. All data was analysed through the
R Software. Threats to bees were described and presented through
graphs and tables using SPSS software. And then Chi-Square Test
was used for comparison across studied sites to determine the
variation of bee species richness and abundance between
undisturbed and disturbed sites.
A total of 508 bees were collected from the studies sites in Mgori
forest reserve; the Dominant family was the Halictidae family,
followed by the Apidae and Megachilidae was the least recorded
family. Species composition significantly varied between thickets
and open woodland types of vegetation, whereby open woodland
had higher composition, richness and abundance than thickets.
Environmental conditions were associated with species abundance
but not richness; particularly elevation had a significant influence on
species abundance.
On the influence of threats on bee species, the human threats
recorded were found to be consistent with resource needs in the
forest. The threats recorded were debarking, grazing, trails, logging,
fire scars and agricultural encroachment. The most consistent
evidence was the presence of trails in the forest and grazing across
all three vegetation types. The comparison of bee species richness,
abundance and diversity showed that, there was significant
difference in bees across the disturbed and undisturbed sites.
Whereby bees were more present in undisturbed sites than
disturbed sites. There was no difference in the calculated Shannon-
Wienner diversity index and abundance of bees between the
disturbed and undisturbed sites.
The study has revealed the composition of bees in Mgori forest
reserve, which can serve as information for future ecological study in
the forest. It has also revealed human threats in the forest that hinder conservation in the forest, as well as influencing the presence
of bees in the forest. Particularly their richness across space. In the
management of the forest, it is important to consider thickets and
open woodland vegetation types found within the forest, since they
serve as separate supplementary habitats to these forest species.
The apparent human threats in the forest threaten its conservation.
As a result, there is a need for the forest patrons and the
communities living adjacent to the forest, to work on improving the
guarding and conservation of the forest. This is because of the
benefits such as pollination services that can be obtained from Mgori
forest
Hatching of artemia franciscana and it’s performance in fertilized ponds
No full textMSc DissertationThis study was conducted to assess the general performance
of Artemia franciscana from saltworks in Tanga, Tanzania. The
study aimed to determine Artemia cysts’ biometry and hatching
efficiency, and effect of pond fertilization on growth
performance and nutritional composition of Artemia. For the
study on biometry and hatching efficiency, Artemia cysts were
collected from salt farms in Tanga, Tanzania, using a 100-150
mesh net. Then the cysts were processed and packed in
airtight containers. In the laboratory, the diameter of each cyst
was measured from a sub sample of 200 cysts and another
sub-samples were incubated in beakers at 28 °C, 35 ppt, and
a pH of 8. After 24 hours, newly hatched nauplii were moved in
triplicate to the culturing tanks, where they were cultured for 15
days while being fed microalgae (Nannochloropsis oculate). As
a reference, the Vinh Chau Artemia cyst strain (from Vietnam)
was used as control. The findings showed that Artemia cyst
from Tanga had a higher value of capsulated cyst diameter
(213.4μm) and chorion thickness (9.7μm) compared to Vinh
Chau Artemia cysts (208.3 μm; 8.3 μm) respectively. Also, a
higher hatching percentage and efficiency was observed in
Vinh Chau Artemia cyst compared to Tanga (p < 0.05).
However a higher growth performance and survival
percentage (74.56%) were observed in Tanga Artemia strain
compared to Vinh Chau Artemia strain (53.85%) which is very
promising. Hence, Tanga Artemia strain showed good quality
hence its prospects to production in pond. However, the study
on the effects of pond fertilization, examined the growth
performance and nutritional composition of Artemia. At 28 °C,
35 ppt, and a pH of 8, six buckets each holding 20 liters of
water were used to hatch a total of 30g cysts. The newly
hatched nauplii were then inoculated in triplicates into the fertilized and non-fertilized ponds, where they were cultured for
28 days at a density of 100 nauplii/litre. The results on
Artemia’s growth performance and nutritional composition
were significantly greater in fertilized ponds (p<0.05).
Phytoplankton communities were also more abundant in
fertilized ponds compared to non-fertilized ponds. All the
environmental parameters monitored were within the
recommended range for example the mean salinity was above
70ppt. The findings from this study suggested that pond
fertilization is of great importance for quality and optimal
production of Artemia in ponds. The results of this study lead
to the conclusion that Tanga cysts exhibit good biometric
characteristics as well as good growth performance when
exposed to pond fertilization. As a result, we recommend
further research in order to enhance more traits of the local
Artemia breed in pond production.The Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA
Impact of sowing date and level of phosphorus application on economic returns in cotton
No full textOriginal ResearchThis study explored the economic dynamics of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
production in Msilale village, Chato District, Tanzania. The experiment utilized a
factorial design with sowing dates on November 25th, December 15th, and January
4th, and phosphorus levels at 0, 20, 40, and 60 kg P ha-1, replicated three times.
Results indicated significantly higher cotton yields (6.1 t ha-1 and 6.3 t ha-1) for
November and December sowings compared to January (3.8 t ha-1). This is a 61%
and 66% increase in cotton yields for November and December sowings,
respectively relative to January sowing. Though not significant, 20 kg P ha-1 and
40 kg P ha-1 applications yielded 5.8 t ha-1 and 5.4 t ha-1, respectively, while 60 kg P
ha-1 yielded 5.3 t ha-1. This is a 9.4% and 1.9% increase in cotton yields at 20 and
40 kg P ha-1, respectively relative to absolute control and 60 kg P ha-1 application.
Economic analysis revealed that late sowing (January) had the lowest net profit
(Tshs. 3,723,400 ≈ USD 1,486) and benefit-to-cost ratio (BCR) of 11.2. Early sowings
recorded higher net profits (Tshs. 6,679,527 ≈ USD 2,666 and Tshs. 6,861,283 ≈
USD 2,738) and BCRs (18.4 and 18.8, respectively). This is a 79% (BCR = 64%) and
84% (BCR = 68) increase in net benefits from early sowings compared to late
sowing. Applications of 20, 40, and 60 kg P ha-1 resulted in net benefits of Tshs.
5,452,572 ≈ USD 2,176 (BCR = 19.2), Tshs. 5,209,904 ≈ USD 2,079 (BCR = 15.1), and
Tshs. 5,748,786 ≈ USD 2,294 (BCR = 14.1), respectively, with a significant (p = 0.017)
BCR at 20 kg P ha-1 indicating cost-effectiveness. This is a 36% and 7.1% economic
benefit at 20 and 40 kg P ha-1, respectively compared to 60 kg P ha-1 application.
Optimizing sowing dates and P levels can boost economic returns in cotton
production and promote sustainability
Students' attitudes towards choosing agriculture as a career: A case of Bihawana Agricultural Secondary School in Dodoma Municipality, Tanzania.
No full textISRG Journal of Multidisciplinary Studies (ISRGJMS), pp. 40-50This study explores the attitudes of students towards agriculture as a career, with a specific focus on Bihawana Agricultural
Secondary School in Dodoma Municipal, Tanzania. Despite agriculture’s crucial role in Tanzania’s economy, there is a noticeable
decline in youth interest in pursuing it as a career. The research seeks to understand the factors influencing students' views on
agriculture, including personal preferences, societal perceptions, and the economic prospects associated with the field.
Understanding their attitudes is crucial for addressing this issue and attracting more individuals to this field. This study employed
a mixed-methods approach, including Questionnaires and interviews, to gather data from 60 students within Bihawana secondary
school. Quantitative data were analysed by using SPSS computer software and “content analysis” technique was used to analyse
qualitative data. The findings shows that, there is low percentage of students selected agriculture as their career path under their
own interest, this gives an alarm on the need to invest more in agricultural schools and knowledge on the importance of agriculture
in the country. Also it was found out that, most students choose agriculture as a career pass from home experience and due to lack
of other employment. Moreover it was revealed that although several students at Bihawana Agricultural Secondary School
acknowledge the significance of agriculture, some of them lack enthusiasm about it as a future career. Factors such as limited
exposure to advanced agricultural practices, societal stigma, and the attraction of higher-paying jobs in urban areas influence
their attitudes. The study suggests several measures to enhance agricultural education and interest to students, including, the
government to offer appropriate and high-quality education by providing positive technical supports for the students who choose
agriculture as their preferred career path by increased practical experiences, and media campaigns to shift perceptions and
encourage students to consider agriculture as a viable career option. Also, parents and the society at large to support and
encourage their children and youths to view agriculture with a positive eye and see it as a way of livelihoo
Corrigendum: Impact of mulching treatments on growth, yields, and economics of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Eastern Tanzania
No full textJournal articleFoodLAN
Trends in prevalence and factors associated with unintended pregnancies in Zambia (2001–2018)
No full textJournal articleBackground Unintended pregnancies can pose significant public health concerns for both maternal and child
health because of their associated risks and implications. Experience of unintended pregnancies may lead to delay in
seeking antenatal care, thus leading to increased risk of complications during pregnancy and childbirth. Globally, the
prevalence of unintended pregnancies has declined. However, the problem remains acute in sub-Saharan Africa. This
study was conducted to examine the factors associated with an experience of unintended pregnancy among women
of reproductive ages in Zambia.
Methods This study used secondary data from the Zambia Demographic and Health Surveys (ZDHSs) which were
conducted between 2001 and 2018. A pooled weighted sample of 4,090 pregnant women of reproductive age
15–49 years at the time of the survey was included in the analysis. Multivariable binary logistic regression model was
employed to examine the association between independent correlates and experience of unintended pregnancy. All
statistical analyses were conducted using Stata software.
Results Findings show that the proportion of women of reproductive age who experienced unintended pregnancy
in Zambia declined from 50.4% (95% CI: 47.1, 53.8) in 2001 to 45.2% (95% CI: 40.5, 49.9) in 2018. The decline in the
prevalence of unintended pregnancy is more pronounced among women age groups 25–29 years and 30–34 years.
Increasing age was associated with an increased risk of experiencing unintended pregnancies. On the other hand,
women who were living in rural areas (aOR = 0.76; 95% CI: 0.58, 1.00) and those with tertiary education (aOR = 0.46;
95% CI: 0.26, 0.80) were less likely to experience an unintended pregnancy. Women who desired a large family
(aOR = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.85) and those who watched television (aOR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.59, 0.94) had lower odds of
experiencing unintended pregnancies.
Conclusions The study has established that the prevalence of unintended pregnancy is still high in Zambia. Women’s
age, place of residence, level of education, desired family size and exposure to media were associated with the risk
of experiencing an unintended pregnancy. Enhancing access to family planning services and commodities targeting
women with low education levels will be key to further reduce unintended pregnancies