Browsing by Author "Jesse, Angela M."

Now showing 1 - 8 of 8

A narrative review of community engagement in the identification, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of health projects in Tanzania
(TAJOCODE, 2024) Jesse, Angela M.; Malisa, Emmanuel T.
Community engagement in development projects enhances community ownership, improves capacities of the involved stakeholders, and ensures sustainability of projects. Reviews have focused on community engagement in water projects, road construction and education services. This study reviewed the community engagement in health projects due to their importance to human life. A narrative review was conducted, mainly through ResearchGate, GoogleSearch, GoogleScholar and ScienceDirect. A conceptual framework was constructed based on the reviewed literature. The study found that there were health projects which were successfully implemented due to proper community engagement while to most of the projects the community engagement was faced with numerous challenges including poor communication between technical staff and the community; unqualified technical staff; poor community engagement process; poor management capability and limited transparency. While success of health projects is subject to numerous factors, community engagement throughout the project is crucial because it influences the other factors. Therefore, community engagement ought to receive the utmost importance when contemplating planning and implementing health projects. There is a need to employ technical staff who are well-trained and experienced in community mobilization before projects identification starts. This should be coupled with supporting community engagement in all stages of a project.
Beyond access to finance: youth motivations, loan utilization, and repayment behaviour in local government soft loan schemes in rural Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2026) Mkuya, Lucton J.; Jesse, Angela M.; Nyamhanga, Pius J.
Access to affordable finance remains a critical barrier for rural youth in Tanzania, where stringent collateral requirements by commercial banks systematically exclude young people from formal credit markets. In response, Local Government Authorities have implemented soft loan schemes targeting youth groups to foster entrepreneurship and economic inclusion. This mixed-methods study investigates youth motivations for accessing soft loans, utilization and investment patterns, and determinants of repayment success in Morogoro Rural District. We surveyed 200 youth loan beneficiaries through stratified random sampling, conducted focus group discussions with 16 participants from 14 youth groups, and interviewed three district officials. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATA version 18 for descriptive statistics, chi- square tests, and binary logistic regression, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed using Atlas.ti version 25. Findings reveal that structural features, such as absence of collateral and zero-interest rates, were primary motivators for loan uptake. However, a significant proportion of beneficiaries partially diverted funds toward household consumption needs due to economic pressures. Agriculture dominated investment choices, though technical capacity gaps led to substantial losses. Peer influence motivated participation but often propagated misinformation regarding repayment obligations. Logistic regression identified key predictors of repayment success: fully collective (OR = 3.434, p = 0.001) and mixed investment models (OR = 2.129, p = 0.027), alignment with stated purposes (full alignment OR = 4.789, p = 0.001; partial alignment OR = 2.440, p = 0.025), agricultural investments (OR = 2.489, p = 0.013), motivation by no collateral requirement (OR = 2.201, p = 0.014), and more recent loan cohorts (2023–2024; OR = 2.435, p = 0.003). Peer influence reduced the odds of repayment success (OR = 0.508, p = 0.019). We conclude that while LGA soft loans enhance financial access, sustainable impact requires integrated support systems addressing technical capacity, household survival pressures, misinformation, group governance, and continuous monitoring. Policy recommendations include mandatory pre-disbursement training, strengthened monitoring and evaluation, targeted communication to combat misinformation, support for sectoral diversification, and promotion of genuine collective enterprises
Condom use among youths in sub-saharan Africa: a narrative review on the myths, misconceptions, and challenges
(Wiley Health & Social Care in the Community, 2024-08-27) Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Jesse, Angela M.; Allan, Tumaini T.
If properly used, condoms can serve as an efective family planning method and preventive tool towards sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Despite its anticipated efectiveness, there are diferent myths and misconceptions which have been observed as hindrances to both its use and efectiveness. Tis review examines the myths and misconceptions of condom use among youths and explores challenges in condom usage in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A narrative review was employed of which diferent journal articles were reviewed. Te search words/phrases were “condom use in SSA, condom use among youths in SSA, myths and misconceptions on condom use among youths in SSA.” A total of 1074 studies were identifed, 93 were relevant to the topic, and only 71 suited the review. Te identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that males were the ones to decide on the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, economic power determines the use of condoms, condom use reduces sexual pleasure, condom use relates to the spread of HIV/AIDS, and condom use is against God’s will. Other identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that the use of condoms is a sign of lack of trust associated with fornication and adultery, also the use of condoms is only for family planning purposes. Te challenges identifed were breakage of condom during sexual intercourse, condom slippage, condom leakage, incorrect storage, and reuse of condoms. Te identifed myths and mis- conceptions lead to low knowledge of condom use within communities. Tere is a need for collaboration between governments, researchers, and NGOs to provide education on condom use to communities, particularly youths.
Condom use among youths in Sub-Saharan Africa: a narrative review on the myths, misconceptions, and challenges
(Wiley, 2024) Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Jesse, Angela M.; Allan, Tumaini T.
If properly used, condoms can serve as an efective family planning method and preventive tool towards sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Despite its anticipated efectiveness, there are diferent myths and misconceptions which have been observed as hindrances to both its use and efectiveness. Tis review examines the myths and misconceptions of condom use among youths and explores challenges in condom usage in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A narrative review was employed of which diferent journal articles were reviewed. Te search words/phrases were “condom use in SSA, condom use among youths in SSA, myths and misconceptions on condom use among youths in SSA.” A total of 1074 studies were identifed, 93 were relevant to the topic, and only 71 suited the review. Te identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that males were the ones to decide on the use of condoms during sexual intercourse, economic power determines the use of condoms, condom use reduces sexual pleasure, condom use relates to the spread of HIV/AIDS, and condom use is against God’s will. Other identifed myths and misconceptions of condom use include that the use of condoms is a sign of lack of trust associated with fornication and adultery, also the use of condoms is only for family planning purposes. Te challenges identifed were breakage of condom during sexual intercourse, condom slippage, condom leakage, incorrect storage, and reuse of condoms. Te identifed myths and mis- conceptions lead to low knowledge of condom use within communities. Tere is a need for collaboration between governments, researchers, and NGOs to provide education on condom use to communities, particularly youths.
The contribution of irrigation systems to household food security in Rufiji District, Tanzania
(East African Journal of Social and Applied Sciences (EAJ-SAS), 2023-06-30) Jesse, Angela M.
Irrigation is considered a major means of increasing productivity to ensure food security all over the world due to rainfall variability caused by climate change. Different countries, including Tanzania, have been advised to engage in irrigation systems, and various regulatory frameworks have been developed to support this. However, different studies reveal both positive and negative results regarding the contribution of irrigation systems to food security, which has raised concerns and prompted the need for further investigation. This study aimed to determine the awareness on the contribution of irrigation systems to food security, types of crops cultivated through irrigation systems, the number of meals consumed by households practicing irrigation, and the challenges facing smallholder farmers in adopting irrigation systems. The Entitlement to Food Theory guided the conduct of this study, which employed a cross-sectional research design involving surveys, interviews, and documentary reviews. A total of 60 households were selected for the study, and the data were analysed descriptively using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and content analysis. The study revealed that farmers had an understanding of the contribution of irrigation systems to food security, although they encountered some challenges including lack of inputs and funds for extensive farming. It was further found that 80% of farmers preferred planting maize over other food crops due to its cost-effectiveness in terms of the required inputs. Additionally, majority of the community members had an understanding of food security in terms of access and availability, rather than utilisation. The study recommends that farmers be educated on the importance of planting other nutrient-rich crops. Furthermore, they should be informed about alternative means of obtaining funds, such as entrepreneurial activities, and using their farms as collateral to access the required agricultural inputs.
Premarital Sexual Relationships and Academic Performance among University Students: A Case of Ardhi University, Tanzania
(The Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, 2020-06-01) Jesse, Angela M.; Ongara, Suzan
Engaging in premarital sexual relationship is found to have effect such as HIV/AIDS infection, STDs/STIs, early and unplanned pregnancies and stress to most youth worldwide. Despite the mentioned effects, most of the youth including university students are still engaging in premarital sexual relationships.This being the case, it was necessary to conduct a study on premarital sexual relationships and academic performance among university students in the study area. The aim was to find out why University students engage in premarital sexual relationship. And how engaging in premarital sexual relationship affect students’ academic performance in the study areas? The Social Exchange Theory (SET) was used to guide the study. In addition, a Cross-sectional research design was used in this study whereby both probability and non-probability sampling procedures were employed. The study found courtship, peer pressure, poverty, mass media and curiosity as the drivers for students’ engagement in premarital sexual relationship. The study concludes that, although there are positive impacts of engaging in premarital sexual relationship among university students, negative effects outweigh positive impacts; and these include stress, which results from fear of being cheated upon or losing a partner, poor performance, and unwanted pregnancies leading to abortion. The study recommends that, the youth specifically university students should be educated on the impact of engaging in premarital sexual relationships on academic performance. Moreover, different programs should be established within universities to expose first-year students to what may happen if they engage in premarital sexual relationship.
The implications of gender-based violence on access to land for rural women’s empowerment in patrilineal societies in Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis, 2025) Maliganya, Willy; Mubofu, Christian Jesse, Angela M.; Jesse, Angela M.
Gender-based violence (GBV) perpetuates inequality, particularly in land ownership, disadvantaging women in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite policies to address GBV, women in patrilineal societies like rural Tanzania still face discrimination in accessing land. While studies have explored gender gaps in economic performance, little research examines how GBV impacts women’s land rights in these communities. This paper analyzes GBV’s implications using desk review data, revealing persistent discrimination despite Tanzania’s supportive policies. Key factors driving GBV and restricting land access are categorized as physical, socio-cultural, and individual. The study highlights how GBV reinforces systemic barriers, limiting women’s asset ownership. By identifying these factors, the paper provides insights into improving women’s empowerment and suggests policy measures to enhance their well-being. The findings underscore the need for targeted interventions to address GBV and promote equitable land rights in Tanzania.
What works and how it works in women empowerment: Experience from Community Research and Development Services in Monduli District, Arusha, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024) Jesse, Angela M.
Women’s empowerment is a global concern aimed at reducing gender gaps to ensure equality within communities. Despite efforts by governments and organizations to promote gender equality and alleviate poverty, women in pastoralist societies, such as those in Monduli District, Tanzania, continue to face gender-based violence, discrimination in asset ownership, and high poverty levels. This study investigates whether empowerment strategies are inclusive, whether livelihood activities align with community needs, and the observable impacts of these activities. A mixed-methods approach was used, collecting data from 201 survey respondents, eight focus group discussions (FGDs), and six key informants. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses, including chi-square tests and logistic regression, were applied to quantitative data, complemented by thematic analysis of qualitative data. Results indicate that strategies such as involving government leaders and men, selecting the poorest women, providing training, seed capital, and monitoring significantly enhance project sustainability (p < 0.05). Livelihood activities, including goat fattening and selling essential goods, were associated with improved household economic outcomes (p < 0.01). The study concludes that context-specific strategies, coupled with training and monitoring, are critical for sustainable women’s empowerment. It recommends that governments and organizations conduct community-based research to tailor empowerment strategies to local needs.