91 research outputs found
The Impact of the Financial Crisis on the Tourism industry : The case study of Tanzania.
No full textTitle: The Impact of the Financial Crisis on the Tourism industry: The case study of Tanzania. Author: Beda Fabian Lyimo Supervisor: Anders Hederstierna Department: School of Management, Blekinge Institute of Technology Course: Master’s thesis in business administration, 15credits (ECTS) Background and Problem Discussion: The tourism industry has been considered to be an important sector in Tanzania for many years whereby it has strong positive effects on the economic development of the country. The positive impact of tourism on the host country is in areas such as foreign exchange earnings, employment opportunities, poverty elimination, provision of social services and improvement of the infrastructure. However the current worldwide top agenda of the financial crisis has weakened the above efforts of the tourism industry towards the economic development of Tanzania. Therefore it is the researcher’s belief that there is a need to conduct an in depth study to scrutinize the impact of the financial crisis on the tourism industry in Tanzania. Purpose: This study will provide an insight into the tourism industry on how the current recession affects this sector. This might help to create sufficient and sustainable measures on how to hedge against the crisis within the sector so as to boost the economic development of Tanzania. Method: The researcher conducted an empirical study by using both secondary and primary source of data from the tourism authorities as well as stakeholders in general. For the primary data the main instrument used was telephone interviews with the tourism officials in Tanzania while questionnaires were added to explore both domestic and international tourists’ views on the financial crisis on the tourism industry. Both interview questions and questionnaires were designed using a semi-structured approach. Theory: The researcher explored theories which link tourism and economic development as there were no direct specific theories on tourism. Analysis: The analysis of the research findings was undertaken by using a qualitative approach to the data analysis whereby the impacts of the financial crisis on the tourism industry in Tanzania were discussed in depth. Conclusion: The analysis showed that there are impacts of the financial crisis on the tourism industry in Tanzania. The analysis also showed that there are measures suggested to mitigate the situation however there is still a problem as most of these measures are not yet effectively implemented which could delay its significance, therefore the tourism sector could lose its potential to boost the economic development of Tanzania. Due to these reasons the researcher provided recommendations and suggested areas for further research to enable an in depth study in the future.Beda Fabian Lyimo 59 Putney Road Handsworth Birmingham UK land:+44 121 5152 305 cell :+44 781 3192 13
An Estimation of the Entomological Inoculation Rate for Ifakara: A Semi-Urban Area in a Region of Intense Malaria Transmission in Tanzania.
No full textAn entomological study on vectors of malaria and their relative contribution to Plasmodium falciparum transmission in the semi-urban area of Ifakara, south-eastern Tanzania, was conducted. A total of 32 houses were randomly sampled from the area and light trap catches (LTC) performed in one room in each house every 2 weeks for 1 year. A total of 147 448 mosquitoes were caught from 789 LTC; 26 134 Anopheles gambiae s.l., 615 A. funestus, 718 other anophelines and 119 981 culicines. More than 60% of the total A. gambiae s.l. were found in five (0.6%) LTCs, with a maximum of 5889 caught in a single trap. Of 505 A. gambiae s.l. speciated by polymerase chain reaction, 91.5% were found to be A. arabiensis. Plasmodium falciparum sporozoite enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay tests were performed on 10 108 anopheles mosquitoes and 39 (0.38%) were positive. Entomological inoculation rate (EIR) estimates were generated using a standard method and an alternative method that allows the calculation of confidence intervals based on a negative binomial distribution of sporozoite positive mosquitoes. Overall EIR estimates were similar; 31 vs. 29 [95% confidence interval (CI): 19, 44] infectious bites per annum, respectively. The EIR ranged from 4 (95% CI: 1, 17) in the cool season to 108 (95% CI: 69, 170) in the wet season and from 54 (95% CI: 30, 97) in the east of the town to 15 (95% CI: 8, 30) in the town centre. These estimates show large variations over short distances in time and space. They are all markedly lower than those reported from nearby rural areas and for other parts of Tanzania
ITN mixtures of chlorfenapyr (Pyrrole) and alphacypermethrin (Pyrethroid) for control of pyrethroid resistant Anopheles arabiensis and Culex quinquefasciatus.
No full textPyrethroid resistant Anopheles gambiae malaria vectors are widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa and continued efficacy of pyrethroid ITNs is under threat. Chlorfenapyr is a promising pyrrole insecticide with a unique mechanism of action conferring no cross-resistance to existing public health insecticides. Mixtures of chlorfenapyr (CFP) and alphacypermethrin (alpha) may provide additional benefits over chlorfenapyr or alphacypermethrin used alone. An ITN mixture of CFP 100 mg/m(2)+alpha 25 mg/m(2) was compared with CFP 100 mg/m(2) and alpha 25 mg/m(2) in a small-scale experimental hut trial in an area of wild An. arabiensis. The same treatments were evaluated in tunnel tests against insectary-reared pyrethroid susceptible and resistant Culex quinquefasciatus. Performance was measured in terms of insecticide-induced mortality, and blood-feeding inhibition. Tunnel tests showed that mixtures of CFP 100+ alpha 25 were 1.2 and 1.5 times more effective at killing susceptible Cx. quinquefasciatus than either Alpha 25 (P = 0.001) or CFP 100 (P = 0.001) ITNs. Mixtures of CFP100+ alpha 25 were 2.2 and 1.2 times more effective against resistant Cx. quinquefasciatus than either alpha 25 (P = 0.001) or CFP100 (P = 0.003) ITNs. CFP 100+ alpha 25 produced higher levels of blood-feeding inhibition than CFP alone for susceptible (94 vs 46%, P = 0.001) and resistant (84 vs 53%, P = 0.001) strains. In experimental huts the mixture of CFP 100+ Alpha 25 killed 58% of An. arabiensis, compared with 50% for alpha and 49% for CFP, though the differences were not significant. Blood-feeding inhibition was highest in the mixture with a 76% reduction compared to the untreated net (P = 0.001). ITN mixtures of chlorfenapyr and alphacypermethrin should restore effective control of resistant populations of An. gambiae malaria vectors, provide protection from blood-feeding, and may have benefits for resistance management, particularly in areas with low or moderate frequency of pyrethroid resistance. A wash-resistant mixture should be developed urgently
Implication Analysis of Pre and Post-Harvest Losses of Maize to Household Food Security in Kongwa and Kondoa Districts-Tanzania
No full textThe contribution of food losses occurring in the food system to reduced household food security is undoubted. This study therefore investigated the status of the pre- and post-harvest losses in maize and their implication on household food availability, utilization and access in Kongwa and Kondoa districts. The study sites were selected because of their potential in maize production and losses. A mixed method approach was used to collect data for the study including secondary and primary data. Secondary data collection was achieved through literature review of published papers, reports, proceeding, policy documents and strategies relevant to agriculture. Primary data collection was achieved through discussion with key informants (14 people), focus group discussion (6 groups from each village comprising of 4 males and 4 females). A total of 376 (5.9%) households were surveyed and Transect Walk was also done to verify information obtained. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically using NVIVO software whereas quantitative data was descriptively analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The cumulative pre and post-harvest losses estimates were compared against provided pre and post-harvest losses threshold values. The comparison between pre and post-harvest losses was confirmed by two ways ANOVA analysis using Levene test. Findings showed that status of maize pre and post-harvest losses are below the thresholds of 31.2% and 40% whereby maize post-harvest losses are significantly (p = 0.015) higher than pre harvest losses. Pre harvest losses in maize were also significantly (p < 0.011) associated with reduced food availability while post-harvest losses are significantly (p < 0.000) associated with reduced food utilization. The study recommends increased awareness among farmers on the implication of food losses to household food security through trainings and seminars from agriculture extension officers
Assessing the impacts of climate change and variability on maize post-harvest system at Kongwa and Kondoa District in Tanzania
No full textImplication Analysis of Pre and Post-Harvest Losses of Maize to Household Food Security in Kongwa and Kondoa Districts-Tanzania
No full textThe contribution of food losses occurring in the food system to reduced household food security is undoubted. This study therefore investigated the status of the pre- and post-harvest losses in maize and their implication on household food availability, utilization and access in Kongwa and Kondoa districts. The study sites were selected because of their potential in maize production and losses. A mixed method approach was used to collect data for the study including secondary and primary data. Secondary data collection was achieved through literature review of published papers, reports, proceeding, policy documents and strategies relevant to agriculture. Primary data collection was achieved through discussion with key informants (14 people), focus group discussion (6 groups from each village comprising of 4 males and 4 females). A total of 376 (5.9%) households were surveyed and Transect Walk was also done to verify information obtained. Qualitative data was analyzed thematically using NVIVO software whereas quantitative data was descriptively analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software. The cumulative pre and post-harvest losses estimates were compared against provided pre and post-harvest losses threshold values. The comparison between pre and post-harvest losses was confirmed by two ways ANOVA analysis using Levene test. Findings showed that status of maize pre and post-harvest losses are below the thresholds of 31.2% and 40% whereby maize post-harvest losses are significantly (p = 0.015) higher than pre harvest losses. Pre harvest losses in maize were also significantly (p < 0.011) associated with reduced food availability while post-harvest losses are significantly (p < 0.000) associated with reduced food utilization. The study recommends increased awareness among farmers on the implication of food losses to household food security through trainings and seminars from agriculture extension officers
Prevalence and molecular basis of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency in Afghan populations: implications for treatment policy in the region.
No full textBACKGROUND: Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency (G6PD), an x-linked inherited enzymopathy, is a barrier to malaria control because primaquine cannot be readily applied for radical cure in individuals with the condition. In endemic areas, including in Afghanistan, the G6PD status of vivax patients is not routinely determined so the drug is rarely, if ever, prescribed even though it is included as a recommended treatment in local, regional and global guidelines. This study assessed the prevalence and genotype of G6PD deficiency in Afghan populations and examined the need for routine G6PD testing as a malaria treatment and control tool. METHODS: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted using random sampling in five Afghan cities to determine the prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Afghan ethnic groups. Filter-paper blood spots were analysed for phenotypic G6PD deficiency using a fluorescent spot test. Molecular analysis was conducted to identify the genetic basis of the disorder. RESULTS: Overall, 45/1,436 (3.1%) people were G6PD deficient, 36/728 (5.0%) amongst males and 9/708 (1.3%) amongst females. Amongst males the prevalence was highest in the Pashtun ethnic group (10%, 26/260) while in Tajik males it was 8/250 (3.2%); in Hazara males it was 1/77 (1.3%) and in Uzbek males is was 0/125. Genetic testing in those with deficiency showed that all were of the Mediterranean type (Med-) characterized by a C-T change at codon 563 of the G6PD gene. CONCLUSION: Prevalence of G6PD deficiency in Afghanistan varies considerably by ethnic group and is predominantly of the Mediterranean type. G6PD deficient individuals are susceptible to potentially severe and life-threatening haemolysis after standard primaquine treatment. If the aim of increasing access to radical treatment of vivax is to be successful reliable G6PD testing needs to be made routinely available within the health system
BEYOND METHADONE: THE ROLE OF FAMILY INVOLVEMENT IN SUSTAINING RECOVERY FROM DRUG ADDICTION IN TANZANIA
No full textThis study examined the influence of family social support on the recovery process of patients attending the MAT Clinic at Sekou-Toure Regional Referral Hospital in Mwanza. A qualitative cross-sectional design was employed, engaging 14 participants comprising 8 MAT clients, 6 family members, and 10 healthcare providers. Purposive sampling was used to select clients and health workers directly involved in treatment, while convenience sampling identified family members willing to participate. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed thematically to explore perceptions, experiences, and practices related to family involvement in recovery. Findings revealed three key dimensions of family support: entrepreneurial motivation, family counselling, and trust. Families that involved patients in income-generating activities reduced idleness, built confidence, and fostered self-reliance. Counselling improved communication, empathy, and conflict resolution, while trust encouraged openness, adherence to treatment, and reduced stigma. Together, these forms of support created a stable and accountable environment that minimized relapse risks. The study concludes that family social support is central to sustaining recovery in MAT programs, complementing pharmacological treatment. Integrating structured family-led interventions, including entrepreneurial activities and counselling, is recommended to enhance long-term treatment outcomes
Species shifts in the Anopheles gambiae complex: do LLINs successfully control Anopheles arabiensis?
No full textINTRODUCTION: High coverage of conventional and long-lasting insecticide treated nets (ITNs and LLINs) in parts of E Africa are associated with reductions in local malaria burdens. Shifts in malaria vector species ratio have coincided with the scale-up suggesting that some species are being controlled by ITNs/LLINs better than others. METHODS: Between 2005-2006 six experimental hut trials of ITNs and LLINs were conducted in parallel at two field stations in northeastern Tanzania; the first station was in Lower Moshi Rice Irrigation Zone, an area where An. arabiensis predominates, and the second was in coastal Muheza, where An. gambiae and An. funestus predominate. Five pyrethroids and one carbamate insecticide were evaluated on nets in terms of insecticide-induced mortality, blood-feeding inhibition and exiting rates. RESULTS: In the experimental hut trials mortality of An. arabiensis was consistently lower than that of An. gambiae and An. funestus. The mortality rates in trials with pyrethroid-treated nets ranged from 25-52% for An. arabiensis, 63-88% for An. gambiae s.s. and 53-78% for An. funestus. All pyrethroid-treated nets provided considerable protection for the occupants, despite being deliberately holed, with blood-feeding inhibition (percentage reduction in biting rates) being consistent between species. Veranda exiting rates did not differ between species. Percentage mortality of mosquitoes tested in cone bioassays on netting was similar for An. gambiae and An. arabiensis. CONCLUSIONS: LLINs and ITNs treated with pyrethroids were more effective at killing An. gambiae and An. funestus than An. arabiensis. This could be a major contributing factor to the species shifts observed in East Africa following scale up of LLINs. With continued expansion of LLIN coverage in Africa An. arabiensis is likely to remain responsible for residual malaria transmission, and species shifts might be reported over larger areas. Supplementary control measures to LLINs may be necessary to control this vector species
Use of a Semi-field System to Evaluate the Efficacy of Topical Repellents under user Conditions Provides a Disease Exposure free Technique Comparable with Field Data.
No full textBefore topical repellents can be employed as interventions against arthropod bites, their efficacy must be established. Currently, laboratory or field tests, using human volunteers, are the main methods used for assessing the efficacy of topical repellents. However, laboratory tests are not representative of real life conditions under which repellents are used and field-testing potentially exposes human volunteers to disease. There is, therefore, a need to develop methods to test efficacy of repellents under real life conditions while minimizing volunteer exposure to disease. A lotion-based, 15% N, N-Diethyl-3-methylbenzamide (DEET) repellent and 15% DEET in ethanol were compared to a placebo lotion in a 200 sq m (10 m x 20 m) semi-field system (SFS) against laboratory-reared Anopheles arabiensis mosquitoes and in full field settings against wild malaria vectors and nuisance-biting mosquitoes. The average percentage protection against biting mosquitoes over four hours in the SFS and field setting was determined. A Poisson regression model was then used to determine relative risk of being bitten when wearing either of these repellents compared to the placebo. Average percentage protection of the lotion-based 15% DEET repellent after four hours of mosquito collection was 82.13% (95% CI 75.94-88.82) in the semi-field experiments and 85.10% (95% CI 78.97-91.70) in the field experiments. Average percentage protection of 15% DEET in ethanol after four hours was 71.29% (CI 61.77-82.28) in the semi-field system and 88.24% (84.45-92.20) in the field. Semi-field evaluation results were comparable to full-field evaluations, indicating that such systems could be satisfactorily used in measuring efficacy of topically applied mosquito repellents, thereby avoiding risks of exposure to mosquito-borne pathogens, associated with field testing
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