Browsing by Author "Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu"

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Analysing rice (Oryza sativa L.) production trends area harvested, quantity and yield stability in Tanzania
(Discover Agriculture, 2025-04) Magubika, Aneth Japhet; Fukah, Francis Kloh; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu; Tryphone, George Muhamba
This study examined the trends in rice (Oryza sativa L.) production and yield stability in Tanzania, with a focus on harvested area, total production, and yield per unit land area. We utilized data from FAOSTAT (https://w ww.fao.org/faostat/en/# home), focusing on the "Production Domains (Crop and Livestock Products)" for the "United Republic of Tanzania." Filters were applied for "Area harvested," "Yield," and "Production Quantity" under "Items (Crops, Primary)" for the period 2000–2022. Other data and information were obtained from literature and government official reports. Mixed statistical analyses (Univariate and Multivariate) were performed. The univariate was performed to assess harvested area, total production, and grain yield through descriptive statistics, while multivariate analysis examined relationships among these variables and yield stability using Generalized Linear Models (GLMs) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA). The results revealed a significant increase in the area harvested, peaking at 481,000 hectares in 2020, compared to 250,000 hectares in 2000. Yield fluctuations were notable, with a significant decline in 2008 (− 729.29 kg ha−1) followed by a recovery in 2018 (791.28 kg ha−1). A strong positive correlation was confirmed between harvested area and production (0.00035791) and yield (0.0013233). PCA results demonstrated that the first three principal components accounted for 87% of the total variance. Statistical tests showed substantial yield differences between 2000 and 2010, reaching 720,690.1 kg ha− 1, with yield stability between 2021 and 2022 noted, resulting in a minor difference of 18,802.6 kg ha−1. The findings reveal that harvested area significantly affects rice production, but yield variability remains a challenge. While expanding cultivated areas has increased output, yield stability is a concern. This emphasizes the need for targeted strategies to optimize cultivation and enhance food security amid changing agricultural conditions.
Assessing intensification options of common bean cultivation to improve food security on smallholder farms in the northern highlands of Tanzania
(Nelson Mandela African Institution of science and Technology, 2021) Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
Complementarities of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with non-legume food crops and their significances to the agricultural systems are underexploited. Based on the description of this study, eight options were assessed for the sustainable intensification of common bean cultivation (through manipulations of intercropping and rotation) against the monocultures of maize (Zea mays L.), and the improved and local varieties of common bean in the northern highlands of Tanzania. The factors assessed were the cropping seasons/years (S) (2015 to 2017), agro-ecological zones (A) above sea level (lower 843 m, middle 1051 m, upper 1743 m), cropping systems (C) (sole, intercrop, rotation), and bean varieties (V) (improved Lyamungu 90 and local Mkanamna) and their interactions. Results indicated that S, A, C, and SXA, S*C, SXAXC were significant and bean grain yields increased in intercrops ranging from 1.5 to 2.9 t ha'1 with land equivalent ratio (LER) of 1.58. Intercropping over five cropping seasons indicated that with SXV grain yields increased from 0.2 to 3.5 t ha'1 in bean and from 2.3 to 2.6 t ha’1 in maize with LERs of 1.48 and 1.55. In rotations, higher bean grain yields were attributed to S (3.3 t ha'1), C (3.4 t ha'1), and V (2.7 t ha'1) and for maize were in C (2.9 t ha1) and S (2.6 t ha'1). In conclusion, out of eight assessed options, this study found two main useful options for improving food security on smallholder farms in the northern highlands of Tanzania. The options were continuous cultivation of the improved and/or local varieties of common bean in intercrops with the maize throughout two rainy seasons of the year (long and short). Another option was cultivation of the improved and/or local varieties of common bean intercropped with maize in the long rainy season and rotating of these intercrops with the maize cultivated in the short rainy seasons. Importantly, the improved bean variety Lyamungu 90 was heavier in weight, using the same number of seeds, than the local bean variety Mkanamna, which provided additional factors to be considered to improve income where weight is the acceptable standard in the market.
Corrigendum: Impact of mulching treatments on growth, yields, and economics of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Eastern Tanzania
(Frontiers Media SA, 2024-10-04) Ramadhani, Ahamed Mwarabu; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu; Rwehumbiza, Filbert B.; Massawe, Boniface H. J .; Nchimbi-Msolla, Susan
Effects of sowing dates and phosphorus levels on cotton growth and yield: soil analysis and implications
(Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2023-09-20) Tlatlaa, Jacob Shauri; Tryphone, George Muhamba; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
This study assessed the effects of sowing dates and phosphorus levels on cotton performance in Chato-Msilale village in Chato District, Tanzania. The soil analysis revealed that field exhibited slightly acidic soil with normal electrical conductivity but suffered from severe deficiencies in total nitrogen and organic carbon. The same field presents common issue of low cation exchange capacity, indicating limited nutrient-holding capacity. Furthermore, both fields displayed very low levels of total nitrogen (<0.1%), signaling a nitrogen deficiency. Available phosphorus was rated as medium (16.8 mg kg −1 soil). Trace elements fluctuated and could be managed based on specific crop requirements. The factors at different levels were: (1) sowing dates – (i) 25th November 2022, (ii) 15th December 2022, and (iii) 4th January 2023; and (2) Phosphorus levels – (i) control, (ii) 20 kg P ha −1 , (iii) 40 kg P ha −1 , and (iv) 60 kg P ha −1 . Regarding cotton growth and yield, sowing dates significantly (p < 0.001) influenced plant height, gin turnout, lint yield, number of bolls per plant, and boll weight while phosphorus levels did not exhibit significant effects. Earlier sowing dates resulted in higher yields, albeit with variations in yield components. Interactions showed that growth and yields were only numerically higher in the middle sowing date at higher levels of phosphorus applied. Overall, these insights offer valuable guidance for optimizing cotton cultivation in Chato District, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate sowing dates for improved yields.
Impact of mulching treatments on growth, yields, and economics of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Eastern Tanzania
(Frontiers Media SA, 2024-09-06) Ramadhani, Ahamed Mwarabu; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu; Rwehumbiza, Filbert B .; Massawe, Boniface H. J.; Nchimbi-Msolla, Susan
Mulching is a widely used agricultural practice that can significantly affect crop growth, yield, and economic outcomes, particularly in regions with varying climatic conditions. The present study evaluated the influence of various mulching practices on the growth, yield, and economic viability of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivation in Tanzania. The study was conducted across three sites in the eastern agro-ecological zone of Tanzania: Kipera (E4 200–1000 m.a.s.l.), Mgeta (E14 500–000 m.a.s.l.), and Ndole (E2 500–1200 m.a.s.l.). Four mulching treatments—polythene mulch, synthetic biodegradable mulch, rice husk mulch, and a control group—were applied to assess their effects on plant growth and yield components. Results revealed significant variations in growth parameters and yield components across sites. Notably, polythene mulch and synthetic biodegradable mulch consistently outperformed the other treatments. Polythene mulch resulted in an average plant height of 68.37 cm, followed closely by synthetic biodegradable mulch at 68.26 cm, both significantly (p < 0.05) taller than rice husk mulch (62.79 cm) and the control (57.74 cm). Canopy coverage was highest with polythene mulch at 61.7%, followed by synthetic biodegradable mulch at 60.5%. Grain yields did not differ significantly between synthetic biodegradable mulch (2.64 t ha−1) and polythene mulch (2.67 t ha−1). Economic analysis indicated that synthetic biodegradable mulch offers promising marginal returns (MR: Tshs. 3,787,450 or USD 1,469) and a benefit-cost ratio (BCR) of 1.91, compared to polythene mulch (MR: Tshs. 4,114,050 or USD 1,595, BCR: 2.06). These findings suggest that synthetic biodegradable mulch is a sustainable and economically viable option for enhancing common bean production across diverse agro-ecological settings in Tanzania.
Impact of sowing date and level of phosphorus application on economic returns in cotton
(Frontiers in Plant Science, 2024-06-12) Tlatlaa, Jacob Shauri; Tryphone, George Muhamba; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
This 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.
Meta-analysis of legumes and groundnut production trends and variability in the global South
(Elservier, 2024) Fukah, Francis Kloh; Magubika, Aneth Japhet; Tryphone, George Muhamba; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
This study examined the production trends and variability of grain legumes in the Global South from 2000 to 2022, with a particular emphasis on groundnut yields and regional differences. From 2000 to 2022, global legume production in the Southern Hemisphere increased by approximately 20–30 %, driven by rising demand for plant-based proteins and expanded cropping areas in countries like Brazil and Argentina. Improved agri- cultural practices have further enhanced yields. In contrast, groundnut production experienced a more moderate growth of around 10–15 %, influenced by favourable conditions and expanded cultivation in regions such as Argentina and South Africa. While demand for groundnuts remains strong, market fluctuations and competition with other crops continue to shape its production dynamics. The analysis covered a range of legumes, including common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), cowpeas (Vigna unguiculata), pigeon peas (Cajanus cajan), groundnuts/pea- nuts (Arachis hypogaea), soya beans (Glycine max), bambara groundnuts (Vigna subterranea), chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), lentils (Lens culinaris), mung beans (Vigna radiata), black gram (Vigna mungo), faba beans (Vicia faba), lablab beans (Lablab purpureus), tepary beans (Phaseolus acutifolius), African yam beans (Sphenostylis stenocarpa), Kersting’s groundnut (Macrotyloma geocarpum), lima beans (Phaseolus lunatus), black beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), adzuki beans (Vigna angularis), moth beans (Vigna aconitifolia), horse gram (Macrotyloma uniflorum), broad beans (Vicia faba), winged beans (Psophocarpus tetragonolobus). Regional data revealed significant differences in legume production. In Sub-Saharan Africa, cowpeas and groundnuts are vital, with cowpeas grown over 11.4 million hectares on average yielding 450 kg ha 1, and groundnuts covering 9.1 million hectares with an average yield of 1007 kg ha 1. Chickpeas and pigeon peas dominate South Asia’s production, whereas Latin America features prominent soya bean and groundnut cultivation. Oceania’s legume farming is less extensive, focusing on chickpeas and mung beans. Descriptive statistics revealed that Egypt led in groundnut production with an average yield of 3279.1 kg ha 1 and a low coefficient of variation (CV) of 4.89 %, indicating stable production. Conversely, Mozambique had the lowest average yield at 322.9 kg ha 1, with a high CV of 30.23 %, reflecting greater variability. The Principal Component Analysis (PCA) identified five principal components explaining 70.9 % of the total variance, with the first two components (PC 1 and PC 2) accounting for 51 %. Bangladesh and Brazil were major contributors to PC 1, while Algeria and Senegal influenced PC 2. These findings highlight the considerable regional variability in yields and stability in legume production. Future research should address these disparities and enhance resilience through targeted agricultural practices and policy interventions.
Potentials of synthetic biodegradable mulch for improved livelihoods on smallholder farmers: a systematic review
(Frontiers in Agronomy, 2024-09-25) Ramadhani, Ahamed Mwarabu,; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu; Rwehumbiza, Filbert B.; Massawe, Boniface H. J.; Nchimbi-Msolla, Susan
Plastic waste in agriculture, particularly from polyethylene mulch, poses significant environmental challenges. Synthetic biodegradable mulch has emerged as a sustainable alternative, derived from renewable resources such as thermoplastic starch, polylactic acid, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and copolyesters. This review explores the benefits of synthetic biodegradable mulch, its environmental impact, and the policy landscape to support its adoption. A review of existing literature was conducted, focusing on three aspects: (1) the performance of synthetic biodegradable mulch in crop production and pest control, (2) the environmental, socioeconomic, and climate resilience compared to polyethylene mulch, and (3) the institutional policies that promote synthetic biodegradable mulch adoption. The analysis considered comparative data on yield, pest management, and sustainability metrics. Synthetic biodegradable mulch performs similarly or better than polyethylene mulch in various agricultural practices. It enhances crop yield, quality, and weed suppression, acts as a physical barrier against pests and diseases, reduces chemical usage, and aids in water and nutrient management. Moreover, synthetic biodegradable mulch offers environmental benefits by reducing plastic waste, microplastic pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to climate change mitigation. While synthetic biodegradable mulch provides numerous advantages, adoption faces challenges such as high initial costs, farmer preferences, and the regulatory framework. Effective institutional policies and increased consumer demand could drive wider adoption, offering potential for improved livelihoods among small farmers while promoting environmental sustainability.
Unexplored agronomic, socioeconomic and policy domains for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings: a systematic review
(2023-11-20) Tlatlaa, Jacob Shauri; Tryphone, George Muhamba; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
Cotton productivity continues to be disputed, despite rapid advancements and widespread technologies. These uncertainties remain to be critically addressed in a broad spectrum focusing on domains at the global level. Therefore, this systematic review provides an overview of the existing advancements in knowledge, skills, and technologies for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings. Specifically, the areas of the cotton chain examined are threefold: - (1) Explore disguised agronomic practices to be endowed for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings; (2) Explore socioeconomic settings based on their disparities in contributing to sustainable cotton production on small landholdings; and (3) Explore existing and feasible institutional policies to be enforced for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings. This review shows that worldwide cotton production involves conventional and organic systems, at the expense of the traditional system. Heavy uses of nitrogenous fertilizers and pesticides are the common practices in conventional systems, with some adoptions of precision agriculture practices, and genetically modified varieties. Rotation and intercropping with early-maturing food crops are also identified viable options to improve farmers’ attitudes toward adopting cotton- producing technologies. In socioeconomics, farmers’ livelihoods are improved by income generation from sales of cotton and labour in the cotton industry. Gender equity in the cotton industry prioritizes females over males, as females display a group with a higher level of technology adoption. Generally, clear institutional policies governing the cotton industry are globally paucity. Furthermore, efforts to sensitize sustainable cotton production are still highly questionable and challenged by the superseding climate changes.
Unexplored agronomic, socioeconomic and policy domains for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings: a systematic review
(Frontiers in Agronomy, 2023-11-20) Tlatlaa, Jacob Shauri; Tryphone, George Muhamba; Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
Cotton productivity continues to be disputed, despite rapid advancements and widespread technologies. These uncertainties remain to be critically addressed in a broad spectrum focusing on domains at the global level. Therefore, this systematic review provides an overview of the existing advancements in knowledge, skills, and technologies for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings. Specifically, the areas of the cotton chain examined are threefold: - (1) Explore disguised agronomic practices to be endowed for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings; (2) Explore socioeconomic settings based on their disparities in contributing to sustainable cotton production on small landholdings; and (3) Explore existing and feasible institutional policies to be enforced for sustainable cotton production on small landholdings. This review shows that worldwide cotton production involves conventional and organic systems, at the expense of the traditional system. Heavy uses of nitrogenous fertilizers and pesticides are the common practices in conventional systems, with some adoptions of precision agriculture practices, and genetically modified varieties. Rotation and intercropping with early-maturing food crops are also identified viable options to improve farmers’ attitudes toward adopting cotton- producing technologies. In socioeconomics, farmers’ livelihoods are improved by income generation from sales of cotton and labour in the cotton industry. Gender equity in the cotton industry prioritizes females over males, as females display a group with a higher level of technology adoption. Generally, clear institutional policies governing the cotton industry are globally paucity. Furthermore, efforts to sensitize sustainable cotton production are still highly questionable and challenged by the superseding climate changes.