SUAIRE (Sokoine Univ. of Agriculture)
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Impact of northern Tanzania potato system improvement project on income and food security of smallholder farmers in Arusha district, Tanzania
No full textJournal articlePotatoes are a staple crop with substantial potential to enhance the income and food security of smallholder
farmers in Tanzania. This study assesses the impact of the Northern Tanzania Potato System Improvement (NTPSI) project on
smallholder farmers in Arusha District, focusing on both economic and food security outcomes. Using a cross-sectional
survey of 192 farmers, comprising both participants and non-participants of the NTPSI project, the study applied Propensity
Score Matching (PSM) to address selection bias and ensure robust comparison. Key outcome indicators included Gross
Margin (GM) for income, Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS)
for food security. The results reveal that participation in NTPSI significantly improved economic returns and food security.
Specifically, the Average Treatment Effect on the Treated (ATT) showed that participants had a mean gross margin increase
of TZS 512,000 per acre compared to non-participants (p < 0.01). Moreover, the HDDS score increased by an average of 2.4
points (p < 0.01), indicating better household dietary diversity, while the HFIAS score decreased by 3.7 points (p < 0.05),
suggesting reduced food insecurity. These statistically significant findings confirm the effectiveness of the NTPSI project in
enhancing smallholder livelihoods. The study underscores the transformative potential of integrated agricultural
interventions, such as improved seed distribution, farmer training, and access to extension services, on rural incomes and
nutrition. The evidence supports scaling similar programs across potato-producing regions in Tanzania to contribute to
achieving SDGs 1 (No Poverty) and 2 (Zero Hunger)
Factors influencing farmers’ decision on the choice of maize seed varieties in Kilosa and Mvomero districts, Morogoro,Tanzania
No full textJournal ArticleA study was conducted with a sample size of 208 farmers to assess the factors influencing
their choice of maize seed varieties in the Kilosa and Mvomero districts of the Morogoro region in
Tanzania. The researchers utilised a binary logistic regression model for the analysis. The results
indicated that farmers' decisions were significantly influenced by the expected yield (p = 0.012) and
were marginally influenced by household size (p = 0.061). The study underscored the need for
policymakers to prioritise creating networks that connect farmers to agricultural experts and
extension services as well as addressing barriers to accessibility, such as affordability and availability
of certified maize seeds. The stakeholders, including government and non-governmental
organisations, can design targeted strategies that enhance seed adoption. Comprehensive agricultural
policies that incorporate these insights can lay the base for a more resilient and prosperous
agricultural sector in the region. The study showcases the important role of training and education in
empowering farmers to make informed decisions regarding maize seed selection. The study also points
to the importance of community engagement in the dissemination of information about new seed
varieties and agricultural practices. Establishing farmer groups or cooperatives can create platforms
for knowledge sharing, enabling farmers to learn from each other’s experiences and successes. This
collective approach not only strengthens the farmers' capacity to adapt to changing agricultural
challenges but also fosters a sense of community and shared purpose
Agro-meteorological services in the era of climate change: a bibliometric review of research trends, knowledge gaps, and global collaboration
No full textJournal ArticleIntroduction: Agro-meteorological services are crucial for mitigating climate
variability’s impact on agriculture and enhancing food security. Despite their
importance, the global research landscape in this field remains underexplored.
This study examines the evolution of agro meteorological research from 2010 to
2024, focusing on trends, contributors, and regional developments.
Methods: A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Dimensions database,
with visualizations created via VOSviewer. The study analyzed publication trends,
key institutions, authors, journals, and subject clusters. Statistical correlations
assessed collaboration and institutional impact.
Results: The results revealed that publications increased steadily, peaking
in 2020 (r = 0.92, p < 0.01), reflecting emphasis on sustainability and climate
adaptation. Collaborative publications correlated strongly with institutional
impact (r = 0.75, p < 0.01), led by Wageningen University and the University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences. Sustainability and The Science of the Total
Environment were key journals. Sub- Saharan Africa and South Asia showed
significant research growth (r = 0.85, p < 0.01).
Discussion: The results highlight the field’s global, interdisciplinary scope and
rising contributions from developing regions. However, capacity gaps and
limited integration of indigenous knowledge persist. Inclusive partnerships and
capacity building are essential to strengthen agro meteorological services and
address climate challenges effectively
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
Influence of familiarity on consumer acceptance of value-added products from Justicia heterocarpa leaves
No full textJournal ArticleThis study investigated the sensory perception and consumer acceptability of value-added products derived from Justicia
heterocarpa, an underutilized indigenous leafy vegetable with potential nutritional benefits. A total of 110 participants,
comprising 80 semi-trained students unfamiliar with J. heterocarpa and 30 untrained university workers familiar with J.
heterocarpa in term of consumption and utilization. Four samples (freshly harvested, blanched dried, unblanched dried,
and fermented) were tested for consumer acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale. The results revealed a significant
influence of the panelists on flavor (p < 0.001) and overall acceptability (p = 0.003) among familiar and unfamiliar
panelists. Unfamiliar panelists rated the flavor and general acceptability of the fermented vegetables higher. There were
significant differences in color (p < 0.0001), flavor (p = 0.0002), and general acceptability (p = 0.0235) between the familiar
and unfamiliar groups. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between general acceptability of flavor (r =
0.81) and texture (r = 0.65). Principal component analysis identified flavor and texture as the primary drivers of overall
acceptance. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of palatable processed J. heterocarpa. These
findings underscore the importance of carefully considering the effects of different processing methods when formulating
product development strategies to enhance consumer acceptance
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
Stakeholders dynamics in the grassroots innovation journey in Tanzania: a swot analysis
No full textJournal articleThe study analyzes the roles of various stakeholders in Tanzania’s grassroots innovation journey
using a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) analysis. The study examines
key actors, including government agencies, private sector organizations, non-governmental
organizations (NGOs), international donors and grassroots innovators to assess their impact on the
innovation ecosystem. A cross-sectional design was employed to collect qualitative data from 35
grassroots innovators, selected through purposive sampling from sources such as the Tanzania
Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH) database, Mashindano ya Kitaifa ya
Sayansi, Teknolojia na Ubunifu (MAKISATU) records, and participants in the Dar es Salaam
International Trade Fair Exhibition (SABASABA). Data were gathered through semi-structured
questionnaires, key informant interviews and observations. The SWOT analysis reveals that
stakeholders such as the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology (MOEST) and
COSTECH provide crucial policy and funding support but face challenges like bureaucratic delays
and budget constraints. Other institutions, including the Vocational Education and Training
Authority (VETA), Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO), National Institute of
Transport (NIT) and Dar es Salaam Institute of Technology (DIT) are recognized for their role in
incubating grassroots innovations. The private sector and international donors contribute financial
and technical support, yet issues related to trust and alignment with grassroots needs hinder their
effectiveness. The findings emphasize the need for enhanced collaboration, improved coordination
and streamlined administrative processes to strengthen stakeholder involvement in grassroots
innovation
Influences of independent variables on the adoption of recommended coffee production practices in Siha District, Kilimanjaro Region
No full textJournal articleAims: The adoption of recommended coffee agricultural practices is critical for enhancing the
productivity and sustainability of smallholder coffee farmers. This study explores the influences of
independent variables on the adoption of these practices.
Study Design: A quantitative method was employed, utilizing structured questionnaires
administered to the sample size of 198 smallholder farmers.
Methodology: Data were analysed using SPSS version 20 with descriptive statistics (frequencies
and percentages) to assess adoption levels. The Probit regression model was applied to evaluate
the likelihood that a farmer adopts a given practice based on a set of explanatory variables. The
regression examined the association between adoption decision and independent variables, including access to loan, annual income, gender, access to training, number of coffee plants, farm
size and educational level.
Results: The findings revealed that adoption rate varied across different coffee practices, while
some practices like shade adoption and weeding are widely adopted, others like Integrated pest
management (IPM) and pesticides use need more support to be widely implemented. Income, land
size and access to training were found to significantly affect the adoption of many practices. Income
and access to training were associated with the adoption of more advanced practices suggesting
farmers with greater financial resources and knowledge are more likely to implement these
practices. On the other hand, marital status and gender has no significant influence on adoption of
most practices.
Conclusion: The study concludes that addressing access to credits and education challenges
among smallholder farmers can significantly improve the adoption of these practices, thereby
increasing productivity and farmers income. Based on these finding practical training program to
improve farmers knowledge, financial support to farmers and targeted interventions for younger
farmers should be emphasized
Implications of climate-smart aquaculture practices on households’ income and food security in Mwanza and Mara, Tanzania’s Lake Zone
No full textJournal ArticleBackground: Climate-Smart Aquaculture (CSAq) practices present significant opportunity for the mitigation of climate-related challenges within the aquaculture sub-sector, particularly in the Lake Zone of Tanzania, where aquaculture and fisheries are central to household well-being.
Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of three CSAq practices—integrated farming, polyculture, and monoculture—on household income and food security.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024, involving 384 aquaculture households across the Mara and Mwanza regions. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including chi-square and t-tests, to determine the influence of CSAq practices on economic and food security outcomes.
Results: The findings revealed that integrated farming significantly enhanced both household income and food security, with participating households achieving a "Very Satisfactory" Household Food Security Index (HFSI) score. In Mara, where integrated farming was more prevalent, households reported significantly higher yields (3303 ± 155 kg) compared to those in Mwanza (2454 ± 146 kg; t = 4.96, p < 0.001). However, Mwanza exhibited significantly higher prices per kilogram (6719 ± 103 TSH) than Mara (5799 ± 122 TSH; t = -5.29, p < 0.001) attributed to superior market access and infrastructure. Polyculture practices, more frequently adopted in Mwanza (35.7%) than in Mara (21.8%), yielded variable impacts on income and food security. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 9.269, p = 0.010) indicated significant regional disparities in CSAq adoption, with Mara exhibiting higher adoption rates of integrated farming (69.3%) compared to Mwanza (56.0%).
Conclusions: This study confirmed that integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems significantly improve household income and food security, while monoculture increases vulnerability. Regional variations indicate higher yields in Mara, associated with the widespread adoption of integrated farming, whereas Mwanza benefited from enhanced market access and elevated fish prices. Strengthening financial access, training programs, and institutional support is crucial for enhancing CSAq adoption. Key recommendations include the expansion of extension services, the improvement of market infrastructure, and the fortification of cooperative support systems to ensure sustainable aquaculture
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