Department of Human Nutrition and Consumer Sciences

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A hidden potential of pigeon peas cultivation practices to curb household food insecurity in rural areas of eastern southern Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2025) Mbwana, H.A; Kaingo, J.
Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) is a tropical legume with significant potential for enhancing food security and nutrition, particularly in semi-arid regions. This study assessed the impact of pigeon pea cultivation practices on household food security, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing in two villages, Mibure (Ruangwa) and Mitumbati (Nachingwea), in the Lindi region of Tanzania. The study involved 300 farming households, with data collected through household surveys focusing on crop production practices, food availability, dietary diversity, and disposable crop income. Two major models were employed: (i) the direct effects of pigeon pea cultivation methods on household wellbeing indicators (adequate household food availability, household dietary diversity, disposable crop income, and calorie and protein production) and (ii) the effects of crop income and calorie production on adequate food availability and dietary diversity. Results revealed that 72% of maize-growing smallholders also grew pigeon peas, along with other legumes like beans and cowpeas. Intercropping was the predominant cropping practice, with over 50% of households using cereal-legume intercropping, while crop rotation was less common. Intercropping pigeon peas with cereals was significantly associated with increased household food availability and dietary diversity. Households practicing intercropping achieved higher disposable crop income and produced more calories and protein, contributing to improved food security and dietary outcomes. The study concludes that pigeon pea intercropping is an effective strategy for enhancing food and nutrition security in semi-arid regions of Tanzania. The results suggest that promoting legume-based intercropping systems could improve household food availability, dietary diversity, and economic wellbeing.
A hub of food amid of nutrition insecurities: exploring food and nutrition situations in Rural Areas of Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2023-09-14) Mbwana A.; Bundala N.
A cross sectional study was conducted and involved 351 households from two regions where participants were mother/caregiver-child pairs. This paper discloses the challenges and opportunities of food and nutrition situations in the areas using lessons from Morogoro and Dodoma regions, Tanzania. Data were collected through an inventory food production questionnaire, focus group discussions, observation and documentation on preparation, cooking and consumption practices. The study revealed several opportunities regarding food and nutrition situations including; availability of arable land for cultivation of diverse crops, ownership of arable land by 75% of study population, and diverse crop production, where about 80% of households cultivate 2-3 food crops. In addition, existence of manpower for agriculture production was evidenced by household composition of more than 3 adults capable of participating in agriculture production. Seasonal availability of fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables was also among the opportunities noted. Despite the documented opportunities, 82% of households participated in subsistence farming and depended on rain fed agriculture, this led to low productivity per acre and seasonal scarcity of foods. Poor nutrition status of children and women coupled by frequent illnesses was noted. Prevalence of stunting was 40.5% and underweight was 14.5%, prevalence of overweight for women was also high in the villages. Furthermore, limited skills on food preparations and sub-optimal dietary practices such as low dietary diversity, low consumption of fruits and animal source foods prevailed in the areas. The importance of addressing the challenges is highlighted including promoting diversified and sustainable agriculture by educating farmers on the importance of producing, consuming and sustaining diversified diets. Also, increasing nutrition awareness on the importance of good nutrition for economic development and productive life.
A Prevalence of overweight and obesity and associated lifestyle patterns among adults in Ilala City and Mkuranga District, Tanzania
(Science Publishing Group., 2025) Fransisco Chrispin Clavery; Kinabo, Renatha Pacific
Introduction: Overweight and obesity are significant global public health challenges associated with adverse burdens on the quality of life and mortality due to their association with non-communicable diseases. Early identification and control of these conditions are vital to mitigating their impact. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 339 respondents in Ilala City (urban) and Mkuranga district (rural) to assess the prevalence and determinants of overweight and obesity among adults. Data were collected on lifestyle, nutrition and demographic characteristics, and anthropometric measurements of height, weight, fat mass%, and waist and hip circumference were measured. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 27. Results: The overall prevalence of overweight and obesity was 26% and 18.9% respectively. In Ilala City, 61.1% of respondents was either overweight (32.2% or obese (28.7%), and in Mkuranga district, the prevalence of overweight was 19.2% and that of obesity was 8.3%. Key factors negatively associated with overweight and obesity included rural residence (AOR = 0.25; 95%CI (0.14 – 0.47); P = 0.000), income (AOR = 0.2; 95%CI (0.1 – 0.5); P = 0.001), Vigorous physical activities (COR = 0.5; 95%CI (0.3 – 0.7); P =0.002), and consumption of pulses (legumes, nuts and oil seeds) (AOR = 0.1:95%CI (0.01 – 0.2); P = 0.026), and positively associated with sex (AOR = 3.65; 95%CI (2.1 – 6.3); P = 0.000), where by female respondents were more overweight or obese than males, low education (AOR = 7.6; 95%CI (1.2 – 48.5); P = 0.03) in which primary school education were at higher risk of being overweight or obese, and spending less than 75 minutes per week for vigorous physical activities (COR = 2.6; 95%CI (1.7 – 4.12); P = 0.000) were by respondents with sedentary lifestyle are at higher risk of being overweight or obese. Conclusion: The findings suggest that urbanization, sex, education level, physical activity, and dietary habits are significant predictors of overweight and obesity. This serves as a bench mark for planning further studies aiming at reducing the prevalence of overweight and obesity among the adult population through well -designed interventions.
Acceptability of a prototype point of care test for human taeniosis and cysticercosis diagnosis, in Mbeya and Songwe
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2019) Emil, Thomas
The proto-type Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis point of care test (TSTC-POC test) is a combined T. solium taeniosis / cysticercosis diagnostic test that enables immediate diagnosis of individuals suffering from taeniosis or cysticercosis or both, and hence, enabling immediate interventions. A cross-sectional study was carried out in selected District health facilities (Ifisi, Makandana and Vwawa) of Mbeya and Songwe Regions, Tanzania to assess perceptions and factors influencing the acceptability of the TSTC-POC test among individuals who were tested during a TSTC-POC test proto-type evaluation. The assessment of acceptability of the TSTC-POC test was carried out through application of Health Belief Model (HBM), a social science theoretical framework. A total of 260 persons were interviewed using a structured questionnaire immediately after they undertook the TSTC-POC test. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16.0 where descriptive statistics and association between variables using Chi-square test were computed. Statistical significance was established at 95% confidence level and p value <0.05. The acceptability of the POC test was high (95.4%). The main factor making the test acceptable was the short time it took between testing and getting the result (45.3% of the respondents). Factors that motivated individuals to undergo the TSTC-POC test include the perceived threat of the disease (death and disabilities), trust in health practitioners and the diagnostic tool itself. Acceptability of TSTC-POC test was not influenced by study hospital, age groups, gender, education level and primary occupation of study participants. It is concluded that the TSTC-POC test is acceptable among study population of Mbeya and Songwe region, southern Tanzania. Information on the test's sensitivity and specificity is required to guide its adoption and promotion for control of TSTC in Tanzania, a potential breakthrough in TSTC surveillance.
Adequacy of macro and micronutrients in infants and young children’s diets in Zanzibar, Tanzania
(African Health Sciences, 2019) Kinabo, Joyce; Mamiro, Peter; Mwanri, Akwilina; Bundala, Nyamizi; Kulwa, Kissa; Picado, Janeth; Ntwenya, Julius; Nombo, Aneth; Mzimbiri, Rehema; Ally, Fatma; Salmini, Asha; Juma, Abuu; Macha, Elizabeth; Cheung, Edith; Msuya, John
Background: A study was conducted in Zanzibar using ProPAN software to assess nutrient adequacy of foods given to infants and children aged 6-23 months old in Zanzibar. Methodology: The 24-hr dietary recall method embedded in ProPAN software was used to determine the adequacy of energy, protein, iron, calcium, zinc and vitamin A in foods consumed by children. Sample of 200 mothers/caretakers with children aged 6-23 months were interviewed. Results: Most frequent foods given to infants and children were tea, bread, white rice and fish. Key nutrients such as iron, zinc and vitamin A were below the recommended levels except for vitamin C from the diets consumed by children aged 11-23 months. Energy and protein were considered to be adequate as more than 90% of the children received enough of these nutri- ents. Mean age of introduction of complementary foods was four months. Conclusion: Children diets were limited in fruits and vegetables that caused micronutrients of nutritional importance such as iron, zinc and vitamin A to be supplied below recommended level. Equally, fat intake was below recommended level. Nutrition education on appropriate complementary foods should be given to caregivers. Promotion of consumption of diversified diets and locally available nutrient dense foods should be emphasized so as to achieve adequate intake of nutrients to infants and young children.
Adoption of processing technologies and innovative food preservation techniques: findings from smallholders in the Lindi Region in Tanzania
(Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 2024) Sarr, Malika; Majili, Zahra; Khalili, Niloofar; Matavel, Custodio E.; Mbwana, Hadijah A.; Kaingo, Jacob; Löhr, Katharina; Rybak, Constance
Adopting processing technologies and innovative food preservation is crucial for improving the food security and nutritional status of rural populations in Tanzania and other countries in the Global South. However, low adoption rates among smallholders highlight the need for a better understanding of farmers’ decision-making processes. The aim of this study is to examine extrinsic and intrinsic factors influencing smallholders’ decision-making processes in the adoption of innovative food processing and preservation techniques (specifically, pigeon pea flour-based products, threshers, dehullers) in Mitumbati and Mibure in the Lindi Region in Tanzania. Primary data on 555 farm households were collected using a standardized survey. Extrinsic influential factors were analyzed using binary logistic regression analysis. The results on internal decision-making are based on an analysis of barriers and motivations identified by farmers in relation to the uptake of the different innovations. Training and awareness emerged as the most significant factors positively associated with the adoption of all innovative processing and preservation techniques. Moreover, the results show that the primary drivers for smallholders in the study region to adopt innovative technologies were the potential health benefits and time savings they offered. The main challenge they faced was a lack of knowledge about the innovations. The results indicate that disseminating knowledge is crucial for the successful adoption of innovative processing technology in the study region. Improving and expanding training programs to be more inclusive can help to create incentives and overcome barriers, leading to increased adoption.
Aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination in homemade and commercial cereal based complementary foods with formula in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Katengesya, T. P.
Aflatoxins (AF) and fumonisins (FM) are major foodborne mycotoxins of public health concerns that infect maize and groundnuts which are the main components of cereal based complementary foods with formula (CBCF-F). The study was conducted to: determine and compare the quantity of total AF and FM among different types of CBCF-F, identify the factors that might influence high contamination of AF and FM in CBCF-F, and assess awareness and perceptions of the processors about AF and FM contamination in cereals. The study design was cross-sectional, involving 60 processors whose 70 CBCF-F were collected for laboratory analysis. High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay methods were used to quantify total AF and FM in the 70 CBCF-F samples. Data analysis was done using SPSS, and comparisons of the total AF and FM among samples were done with Duncan’s LSD. The results showed that 93 and 98% of CBCF-F samples were contaminated with AF and FM respectively; 32.9% of the samples exceeded the regulatory limit of 10 ppb set by TBS. There was no sample that exceeded the regulatory limit of 2 ppm for total fumonisin. The factors that increased AF contamination in CBCF-F were the use of groundnuts (p < 0.05) and living in rental houses (p < 0.05). Eighty-two (82%) and 95% of the respondents were not aware of AF and FM respectively; 90 had seen molds but 76.7% of them did not associate them with health implications while 28.3 and 48.3% perceived molds as crop diseases and decayed foods with no health implications to human being respectively. It is concluded that infants depending on CBCF-F are exposed to AF and FM contamination. Also, groundnuts and rental houses contribute significantly to increasing total AF in CBCF-F, and the majority of processors of CBCF-F are not aware of multiple occurrences of mycotoxins in cereal products. It is recommended that mycotoxins contamination should be viewed as a cross cutting issue and given priority in Tanzania.
Aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination of maize and beans along the food and feed value chain in Babati district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Nyangi, Chacha Joseph
The natural occurrence of aflatoxins and fumonisins in maize and beans at harvest, during storage and along the value chain, including processed, feed and marketed products in three villages of Long, Sabilo and Seloto in Babati District, Manyara region, Tanzania, was investigated in the year 2013/14. The villages were chosen as they represents three different climatic zone. Total aflatoxins and fumonisins contamination in 440 at harvest maize samples had levels up to 26.2 μg/kg and 46.2 mg/kg, respectively. Aflatoxins contamination in 38 common beans samples had levels up to 3 μg/kg. The aflatoxin and fumonisin contamination in all beans samples were within the maximum tolerable limit (MTL) of 10 μg/kg and 2 mg/kg respectively, by East African Commission standards (EAC, 2011b). Parameter estimates from the generalised linear model (GENMOD) indicated that medium altitude low rain zone that lies between 1500 and 1850 metre above sea level (m.a.s.l) and representing Sabilo village (0.26) was the major factor pre-disposing maize to aflatoxin contamination, while early planting (-0.22), hand hoe tillage (−0.59) and ox tillage (-0.55) were the major factor reducing the aflatoxin contamination. High altitude high rainzone (Long village) that lies between 2150 and 2450 m.a.s.l was the most important factor reducing fumonisin contamination in maize with a parameter estimate of -2.93. Total aflatoxin and fumonisin levels were also determined in 574 maize and 106 bean samples stored by 60 farmers over a period of 180 days from august, 2013 to March, 2014. Maize samples from Seloto village were more contaminated (mean value of 3.24μg/kg) than those from Sabilo village (mean value of 3.12 μg/kg). Factors associated with higher aflatoxin contamination were storage for 0 to 80 days and storage with other crops, while for fumonisin most influential factor was storage of maize in granaries comparing to polypropylene and improved bags. The storage technique or facility that had a higher risk of aflatoxin development was polypropylene bags without any insecticides treatment (control) with a mean contamination value of 3.57 μg/kg and polypropylene bags with insecticides and pesticides treatment (normally used by most of farmers) with a mean value of 3.30 μg/kg. Lower aflatoxin levels were related to the use of traditional storage insecticides, sorting, and storage in improved bags. Among the maize and beans samples collected from the market (vendors) and from processors (small-scale mills) were whole maize grains, maize flour, feed (maize bran and bad-sorted maize not fit for human consumption but normally fed to animals) produced locally from the three villages. Maize bran had highest levels of aflatoxin with a mean value of 2.38 μg/kg and bad sorted portion with fumonisins mean value of 7.42 mg/kg, followed by whole maize with a mean aflatoxin value of 1.73 μg/kg and maize bran with a fumonisin mean value 1.02 mg/kg, while, dehulled maize was least contaminated with fumonisin. During milling mycotoxin become concentrated in bran that most commonly become animal feed. This would reduce the mycotoxins levels in the fraction that is normally used for food (maize flour and dehulled maize). All animal feed grade grain materials had levels lower than MTL of 20 μg/kg for total aflatoxin and a range of 5 to 100 mg/kg for total fumonisin (FAO, 2004; FDA, 2001). The observations made in this study call for use of best practices along the commodity value chain that can reduce contamination in order to improve food and feed safety.
Aflatoxin in peanut butter and compliance with the national food laws among SMEs in Dar es Salaam region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2019) Kiwia, Lulu
The aim of this study was to determine the levels of aflatoxin in peanut butter and compliance with the national food laws among SMEs peanut butter manufacturers in Dar es Salaam region. Semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess awareness on aflatoxin contamination in peanut butter, and observation checklist was used to assess compliance practices with national food laws among SMEs peanut butter manufacturers. Samples of peanut butter were collected randomly from 30 peanut butter SMEs selected from the list provided by Small Industries Development Organization (SIDO). Samples were analyzed by High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with fluorescence detection. The total amount of aflatoxins detected in peanut butter samples ranged from 0.075 to 317 μg/kg of which 33.3% of the samples for AFB1 (5.1 to 277.7 μg/kg) and 26.6% of the samples for total aflatoxin (15.5 to 317 μg/kg) exceeded the TBS regulatory limit 5 μg/kg and 15 μg/kg respectively as established by TZS 844:2014. The results revealed that all peanut butter SMEs had knowledge on susceptibility of peanut and peanut butter to aflatoxin while only 3.3% of peanut butter SME was not aware on favorable conditions for aflatoxin in peanuts. These peanut butter SMEs did not register 80% of the premises and 83.3% of the products, and most 90% of the products did not have TBS marks. Also 56.7% of peanut butter SMEs did not have business license. The high level of aflatoxin found in peanut butter poses significant threats to the health of consumers. Therefore, food regulatory authorities should encourage SMEs peanut butter manufacturers to use clean raw material and practice required Quality Assurance (QA), and should monitor the levels of aflatoxin in peanut butter and ensure all SMEs peanut butter manufacturers are registered and comply with the national food laws.
Agronomic performance and Heritability of some components of Robusta Coffee (Coffea canephora Pierre ex Froehner) clones
(2003) Reuben, S.O.W.M.; Marandu, E.F.T.; Misangu, R.N.
The present investigation evaluates the performance of newly identified clones in the major coffee growing zones of Kagera region, Tanzania. Five clones namely MS1/95. MS2/95. MS3/95, MS5/95. MS6/95 selected from individual trees in farmers fields and FS a control variety, were grown in farmers fields in March 1998 a four locations representing 3 coffee growing zones of Kagera region. Each chosen farmer's field was a replicate. Plant girth and fruit set percentage differed significantly among the clones tested MS2/95 had the thickest stems while MS3/95 gave the highest percentage of fruit set. Percent fruit set ranged from 13.5% - 31.4% for MS6/95 and MS3/95 respectively. Locations differed on yield % bearing primary branches canopy radius plant girth and plant height. Kabirizi B gave the highest yield of 1853.8 kg/ha while Chanika gave the lowest yield of 358.8 kg/ha. The yield differences between location were associated with performance of clones on plant height, plant girth canopy radius, primary branches and % bearing primary branches. Plant height girth canopy radius, primary branches, % bearing primary branches and yield of clean coffee were positively corrrelated among themselves. Heritability estimates were high (50%) for plant girth, berries per node and fruit set percentage. Heritability ranged from negligible for yield to 125% for plant girth. Expected genetic gain varied with heritability ranging from negligible to 36.5% for fruit set percentage. Yield of clean coffee had appreciable amounts of clone x location interaction and environmental variance in relation to the total phenotypic variance. It should be possible to realize substantial gain from selection and genetic improvement for plant girth, berries per node and fruit set percentage.
Anthropometrics, hemoglobin status and dietary micronutrient intake among Tanzanian and Mozambican pigeon pea farmers
(Nutrients, 2022-07-15) Eleraky Laila; Ramula Issa; Mbwana Hadija; Rybak Constance; Jan Frank; Stuetz Wolfgang
Inadequate consumption of micronutrient-dense and protein-rich foods such as vegetables, legumes and meat is an important contributing cause for anemia and deficiencies of vitamin A and iron in rural communities of Tanzania and Mozambique. A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the nutritional status (anthropometrics and hemoglobin) and diets in particular micronutrient intake of female and male pigeon pea farmers from Lindi, Tanzania, and Gurué, the Zambézia province of Mozambique. A total of 1526 farmers (669 from Tanzania, 857 from Mozambique) were studied, of whom 16% were overweight and 35% were anemic. The highest prevalence of overweight and anemia, at 35% and 48%, was observed in Tanzanian and Mozambican women, respectively. Overall, only a small proportion of women and men reached the recommended daily dietary intake of vitamin A (10%), iron (51%) and zinc (44%). Multiple regression models revealed that dark green leafy vegetables (DGLVs) highly predicted vitamin A intake, whereas legumes in Tanzania and starchy plants in Mozambique were actually the dominant sources of vitamin A. Cereals covered over half of the iron and the zinc intake in both countries. An increased consumption of micronutrient-rich DGLVs and legumes, while reducing the high amounts of refined maize or polished rice, is suggested to counteract the high prevalence of anemia and overweight among smallholder farmers in East and South Eastern Africa.
Antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among smallholder chicken farmers in Southern Mozambique
(Academic Journals, 2025) Mugabe, Noemia Andre; Kussaga, Jamal; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi
Intensive production systems face challenges in treating individual chickens due to the large number of animals, resulting in the indiscriminate use of antibiotics as the only alternative. The use of antibiotics in poultry production has adverse effects on humans, as prolonged consumption of contaminated meat can lead to the development of antibiotic resistance in intestinal bacteria. A cross-sectional survey involving 395 smallholder farmers was conducted through face-to-face interviews to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding antibiotic use in urban and peri-urban areas of Southern Mozambique. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 27. The findings revealed that 60% of respondents were female, 28.6% had received training on antibiotic use, and 73.2% identified poultry production as their primary source of income. Approximately 72.2% were unaware of antimicrobial resistance, while oxytetracycline (22.8%) was the most commonly used antibiotic on farms. In cases of disease, 96.99% of farmers self-administered antibiotics, and 30.9% reported consuming meat from chickens that had died during or after antibiotic treatment. Chi-square and regression analyses (p=0.000) revealed significant associations, indicating that training positively influenced knowledge regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics. Education level also influenced antibiotic use (p=0.000); farmers with higher education levels were more likely to believe that medicinal plants could serve as alternatives to antibiotics. This study revealed that antibiotic use contributes to the contamination of broiler chickens with antibiotic residues and promotes antimicrobial resistance, primarily due to inadequate knowledge, attitudes, and practices resulting from insufficient training in antibiotic application. To reduce, prevent, and eliminate the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and the spread of antimicrobial resistance, it is essential for the government to educate, train, and monitor veterinary professionals, smallholder farmers, and resellers on the proper use of antibiotics in poultry production.
Antimicrobial effect of slightly acidic electrolyzed water for inactivation of Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli on fresh strawberries (Fragaria L.)
(2010-10-18) Issa-Zacharia, A; Kamitani, Y; Muhimbula, H; Iwasaki, K
Antimicrobial effect of slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW: pH 5.6 ± 0.1, 20.5 ± 1.3 mg/L available chlorine concentration; ACC) against indigenous aerobic mesophiles and inoculated Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp. on fresh strawberry was assessed. The antimicrobial effect of SAEW was compared with that of strong acidic electrolyzed water (StAEW) and sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) solution. SAEW effectively reduced total aerobic mesophilic bacteria from strawberries by 1.68 log10CFU/g and was not significantly different from that of NaOCl solution (p > 0.05). Antimicrobial effect of SAEW against Salmonella spp. and E. coli was indicated by a more than 2 log10CFU/g reduction of their population and the effect was not significantly different from that of NaOCl solution and StAEW at similar treatment conditions (p > 0.05). From these findings, SAEW with a near-neutral pH and low available chlorine concentration exhibits an equivalent bactericidal effectiveness to NaOCl solution and thus SAEW is a potential sanitizer that would be used as an alternative for StAEW and NaOCl solution in the fresh fruit and vegetables industry.
Apprentices perception on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting methods
(International Peer Reviewed Journal and Book Publishing, 2021) Bakker-Edoh, Dymphna; Kassah, Johnson Kofi; Kereth, Gudila Ancelm; Oigo, Elizabeth B.; Mburugu, Keren G.
Purpose: To assess the perceptions of apprentices on apparel fit made with pattern drafting and free-hand cutting methods. Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional descriptive survey was considered adequate for this study as it has the advantage of soliciting respondent’s views on the nature of the situation as it existed at the time of a study. The design is an efficient way of collecting information of a large group of people within a short time using questionnaires. The survey design was deemed appropriate for this study as it has the advantage of seeking the views of informal dressmakers and tailors on the use of pattern drafting and free-hand cutting in apparel construction. It allowed for the use of both quantitative and qualitative techniques in the study. This paved way for better understanding of a phenomenon under study. The use of these methods offered the opportunity to have in-depth information and also the weakness in one method is compensated for by the strength in another method. Results: respondents agreed that using free-hand cutting method of apparel construction has certain limitations such as its inability to neither produce a perfect fit, takes care of fullness nor bring out the curves among others. Less than one third of the respondents were of the view that free-hand cutting contributed to perfect fit of apparel. Apprentices held a positive view about the use of pattern drafting as providing better fit of apparel as compared to free-hand cutting. It was summed that although free-hand cutting was the main training method used, some styles, because of their unique features, could only be cut with pattern and comes out better than free- hand cutting. Unique Contribution to theory, practice and policy: The implication is that given the opportunity, training and necessary materials, these apprentices would start using more of pattern drafting than free-hand cutting. Therefore, the study recommended that the IDTA increase the opportunities for pattern drafting training, which will lead to more production of better apparel fit. The study recommended that the IDTA should enact a policy to incorporate pattern drafting and other methods of apparel construction into the training curriculum of apprentices to develop an interest in the use of these methods right from the onset. Additionally, the study suggested that future studies to focus on the factors that contribute to the dropouts during the apprenticeship period.
Assessing and controlling bio-deterioration of maize in Tanzania.
(Iowa State University, 2016) Suleiman, Rashid A.
Agriculture is the backbone of the Tanzanian economy. It accounts for about one-third of the gross domestic product (GDP), provides 85 percent of all exports and serves as a livelihood lo over 80 percent of the total population. Maize or corn (Zea mays L.) is the primary staple crop; it’s grown in nearly all agro-ecological zones in the country. Tanzania is a major maize producer in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the last four decades, Tanzania has ranked among the top 25 maize producing countries in the world. Despite the steady production of maize over the past three decades, post-harvest losses of maize remained significantly high, especially for small-holder farmers. Post-harvest handling, poor infrastructure, and weather variability, bio-deterioration brought about by pest organisms such as insects, molds, and fungi, rodent, bacteria, pathogens, and viruses often aggravate such losses. In tropical countries, a large proportion of the maize is harvested and stored under humid and warm climatic conditions, which subsequently results in rapid deterioration of the grains, mainly because of growth of molds and pests. Deterioration of maize is mainly affected by moisture content, temperature (grain and air), relative humidity, storage conditions, fungal growth, and insect pests. Fungal growth, especially Aspergillus flavus and Fusarium sp in maize, facilitated by hot and humid conditions, poses a major health risk through production of mycotoxins. Mycotoxins are toxic secondary metabolites of fungi that frequently contaminate the maize in the field and/or during storage. The most important mycotoxins in maize are the aflatoxins, Fumonisins, deoxynivalenol, and ochratoxin. In order to maintain high quality maize for both short- and long-term storage, maize must be protected from weather, the growth of microorganisms, and insect pests. Stored product pests such as Siiophilus zeamais (Motschulsky), the maize weevil, are serious pests of economic importance in stored products in tropical and subtropical countries. Infestation often starts in the field, but serious damage is done during maize storage. This study determined the resistance of flint corn and dent corn to infestation by S. zeamais. Improved King Philip hybrid flint com and Fontanelle 6T-510 hybrid dent corn were used. Two temperature conditions (10 and 27°C) and two storage times (15 and 30 days) were used. Results showed flint corn was more resistant to insect damage than dent corn at 27°C significantly higher in flint corn (R2= 0.945) compared to dent com (R2 = 0.634). Likewise. the damaged seed was 10% higher in dent corn than in flint corn at 27°C and 30 days. However, no significant difference was observed for seed weight loss between flint corn and dent com at the same storage conditions. Further, the study evaluated S. zeamais infestation on seven varieties of maize. Seven commercial maize varieties (white dent, yellow dent, orange flint, Indian flint, white and yellow popcorn, and sweet com), two temperature conditions (10 and 27 °C) and three storage times (30. 60, and 90 days) were used. The moisture contents of all maize samples weevils, seed damage, weight loss, and weight of powder produced were assessed at the end of each storage time. As expected, severe damage was observed at 27°C and 90 d for all maize varieties. Exponential growth rates of S. zeamais were observed in almost all maize varieties. Among seven varieties evaluated, orange flint corn, yellow, and white popcorn show resistance to 5. zeamais. Sweet and dent corn were most susceptible to maize weevil infestation. Higher numbers of live S zeamais were observed on Indian flint corn and sweet were adjusted to 15.5 } 0.5% (wet basis) prior to initiating storage trials. Numbers of live and 30 days storage time. After 30 d storage time and 27°C, death rate of the weevls was corn. Consequently, there was a higher seed weight damage and weight loss. In addition, seed damaged, percentage seed weight loss and weight of powder produced was significantly and positively correlated with a number of live S. zeamais (r = 0.91, P<0.05), (r = 0.88, /’<0.05). and (r = 0.89, P<0.05) respectively. Thus, some varieties of flint corn and popcorn can be considered as potential maize varieties to be used to reduce postharvest loss of maize in tropical countries due to their natural resistance to S. zeamais infestation. Moreover, the study also determined the techno-economic analysis (TEA) and life cycle analysis (LCA) of maize storage for middle class farmers in developing countries. Maize is the most widely cultivated cereal crop worldwide. It is produced on a seasonal basis, usually harvested once per year. To maintain a constant supply throughout the year, maize should be properly stored. But this entails high cost and high-energy consumption, which can contribute significant amounts of greenhouse gas emissions. Three storage capacities (25,000 bu. 250.000 bu and 2,500,000 bu) per year were evaluated for economic analysis and environmental impact. The result shows the total storage cost per kilogram decreased as storage capacity increased (3.69$/bu, 1.89$/bu, and 0.42$/bu). Likewise, energy consumption (electricity, diesel and liquid propane) increased as storage capacity increased. Consequently, more greenhouse gas emissions (CO2, CFI4, and NOx) were emitted to the environment. Thus, to obtain an optimal balance between economics and the environment, it is important for the farmers to understand the concepts of techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment. Furthermore, the study also determined the measured and predicted temperature of maize under hermetic conditions. Three different storage conditions (room at 25°C, cooling at 4°C, and freezing at -20°C) were investigated. Yellow dent corn variety Blue River 571136 from Iowa, harvested in 2011 was used. Maize was stored in two hermetically sealed bins (50-cm diameter x 76-cm height). Five logger sensors were installed inside the bin to measure temperature and relative humidity of the air and maize grain. The sensors were located at the top, center, bottom, left and right at about 12 centimeter apart. Afterplacing each barrel into storage, temperature and relative humidity values were measured ever}’ minute for 9 days throughout the duration of the experiment. Model validation was carried out by comparing predicted with measured maize grain temperature data in the radial and vertical directions. The temperature in the hermetically sealed cylindrical bins varied, mostly in the radial direction and very little in the axial vertical directions. No noticeable change in temperature was observed in the room condition. Moreover, the temperature in the grain changed more rapidly in the freezing conditions than in the room temperature and cooling conditions. Furthermore, the lag time between the center temperature and the side (right, left, top, and bottom) was greater in the radial direction compared to in the vertical 1.5°C. The predicted and measured values of maize grain temperature at radial and vertical directions were found to be in good agreement. The model shows a good potential conditions under hermetic storage. In addition, the study determined the impact of moisture content and S. zeamais on maize quality during hermetic and non-hermetic storage conditions. Commercially commingled maize kernels were conditioned to target moistures 14, 16, 18, and 20% moisture content (wet basis), and then three replications of 300 grams of maize grain were stored in glass jars or triple ZiplocR slider 66 pm (2.6-mil) polyethylene bags at four conditions: hermetic with weevils, hermetic no-weevils, non-hermetic with weevils, non-hermetic no-weevils. All jars direction. The maximum difference between predicted and measured temperature was application to predict the temperature of maize grain stored at room, cooling and freezing and bags were stored in an environmental chamber at 27°C and 70% relative humidity for cither 30 or 60 days. At the end of each storage period, jars and bags were assessed for visual mold growth, mycotoxin levels, CO2 and O2 concentrations, pH level, the numbers of live and dead 5. zeamais, and maize moisture content. The maize stored in non-hermetic conditions with weevils at 18 and 20% exhibited high levels of mold growth and aflatoxin contamination (>150 ppb). Although mold growth was observed, there were no aflatoxins detected in maize stored in hermetic conditions. The CO2 and O2 concentrations were directly related to the maize moisture contents and storage times. In general, CO2 increased and O2 gradually decreased as storage lime increased. No significant difference in pH was observed in any storage conditions (/’<0.05). Total mortality (100%) of S. zeamais was observed in all hermetically stored samples at the end of 60 days storage. The number of S. zeamais linearly increased with storage time for maize stored in non-hermetic conditions. Moisture content for hermetically stored maize was relatively constant. Moreover, a positive correlation between moisture content and storage time was observed for maize stored in non-hermetic conditions with weevils (r = 0.96, 7><0.05). The results indicate that moisture content and the number of S. zeamais play a significant role in maize storage, both under hermetic and non-hermetic conditions. The study also determined whether there is a synergistic interaction between P. iruncatus and S. zeamais during storage. The interaction between the two insects was evaluated in terms of the numbers of the live population, percent damaged grain, the weight of powder (flour) produced, and percentage seed weight loss. Higher damage was observed in nonhermetic storage with P. Iruncalus and in mixed treatments (P. Iruncalus and S. zeamais). A significant difference <0.05) and positive correlation were observed between the number of live population, percentage grain damage, the weight of powder produced, and percentage seed weight loss on infestation by P. truncates, S. zeamais, and mixed treatments. S. zeamais dominate populations in the early stage, but were outnumbered by P. truncalus after 60 d oi storage in the individual species as well as in mixed treatments. The high percentage grain damage was observed in non-hermetic storage after 60 days in P. truncalus (58%) and mixed treatments (54%). The weight of powder produced ranged from 0-30 grams per 250 grams of maize. Percentage seed weight loss decreased after 60 days for P. truncalus and mixed treatments, but increased onward for S. zeamais, a low synergistic interaction between P. truncalus and S. zeamais was observed. However, P. truncalus plays a significant role when two insects coexist and cause more severe damage than S. zeamais in maize under nonhermetic storage conditions. Furthermore, the study detennined the practicability of periodic physical disturbance on S. zeamais mortality and adaptation by smallholder fanners in developing countries. S. zeamais is the most widely occurring and important cosmopolitan postharvest insect pest of stored maize in tropic and sub-tropical regions. Preventing infestation of this pest without using chemicals remains a huge challenge for smallholder farmers in the developing countries. Physical control methods are effective and attractive alternative methods to prevent, and control stored product pests in grain handling and storage facilities. Physical techniques are based on the application of some kind of force to manipulate the storage environments. They can provide unfavorable conditions for insect pests to multipliply or arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications and threestorage times (30, 60, and 90 days) in three regions of Tanzania. A total of 108 clean 20L damage to the grain. In this experiment, disturbed and stationary/control treatments were (L284 x W234 x H391) milimeter plastic containers were each loaded with 10 kilograms of fresh white dent corn and 0.50 kilograms of maize infested with S. zeamais. The initial numbers ofS. zeamais were determined. For the turned treatment, containers were disturbed or turned twice a day, whereas for the controls, the containers were not disturbed until the end of storage. The overall percent mortality after 30, 60, and 90 days of storage were 88. 96, and 98% respectively. A statistically significant difference (7J<0.05) was observed for the number of live S’, zeamais in the control treatments. While the number of live S', zeamais in the turned treatment significantly decreased as storage time increased. The study shows the potential of a feasible, simple, affordable, safe and effective method of protecting maize grain for small-holder farmers in developing countries without using chemicals. Lastly, the study assessed the postharvest practices and awareness of mycotoxins contamination in maize grain. Maize is a major cereal crop in Tanzania and it is grown in diverse agro-ecological zones. Like other sub-Saharan countries, postharvest losses of maize during storage in Tanzania remain significantly high, especially for smallholder farmers. Unpredictable weather and poor postharvest practice contribute significant to rapid deterioration of grain and mold contamination, and subsequent production of mycotoxins. The purpose of this study was to assess the postharvest practices and awareness and knowledge of mycotoxin contamination in maize grain in three agro-ecological zones (Eastern, Central, and Northern) of Tanzania between November 2015 and February 2016. A survey using semi-structured questionnaires was administered to farmers, traders, and consumers of maize. A total of 90 people (30 from each zone) were surveyed with a response rate of was 96% (87). In addition, several samples of maize were collected and analyzed for aflatoxin, fumonisin, and Zearalenone contamination to validate the awareness and knowledge of mycotoxin contamination of maize. The result shows a high level of postharvest losses of maize mainly through insect infestation. Moreover, over 80% of the farmers, traders, and consumers of maize were unaware of mycotoxins contamination. All maize samples collected contained detected levels of mycotoxins. The maximum concentration of aflatoxins, fumonisin, and Zearalenone in maize samples was 19.20 ppb. 7.60 ppm, and 189.90 ppb respectively. Education intervention is necessary to decrease the disconnect observed between actual mycotoxin contamination and the awareness and knowledge of farmers, traders, and consumers of maize in Tanzania. Enhancing awareness and knowledge provide the opportunity to educate on post-harvest practices that reduce postharvest losses of maize in Tanzania.
Assessing sustainability of smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production systems in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Munyaneza, C.
Sustainability of smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production systems in developing countries, including Tanzania, is limited by a number of constraints such as low cow productivity, shortage of feed, limited access to inputs and outputs markets and degradation of natural resources. Efforts have been made to improve the sustainability, but the improvement is hindered by lack of knowledge on how to ensure sustainability of the production systems particularly at the farm level. To contribute to the efforts being made to address these issues, this study aimed at assessing sustainability of smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production systems in Tanzania. The study was conducted in four districts located in Morogoro and Tanga Regions. In the context of this study, a smallholder dairy production system refers to a system with dairy farms which have up to five dairy cows, where majority are crossbreeds of local and pure exotic breeds and milk is considered the main source of income. Meanwhile, a traditional cattle milk production system consists of cattle farms keeping mainly indigenous cattle and milk is not considered the main source of income. The first step of the study involved identifying relevant indicators for assessing sustainability of smallholder dairy as well as traditional cattle milk producing farms. The systems were further categorised into Rural production to Rural consumption (R-to-R) and Rural production to Urban consumption (R-to-U) systems. Whereby R-to-R refer to rural farmers sold milk to rural consumers and R-to-U to rural producers predominantly selling milk to urban consumers. A two-round Delphi approach involving 44 diverse experts and stakeholders was used in identifying the sustainability indicators. The second step involved developing a milk production farm sustainability assessment tool based on a set of fifteen most relevant of the identified indicators. The indicators were selected from the previously identified indicators according to data availability and cost. The tool was used to assess sustainability of 431 randomly selected farms in the study districts. The data were collected through interview of the farmers using a pre-tested questionnaire administered to the selected farms. Individual indicators of sustainability were measured, normalized using mini-max approach, weighted using factor analysis and aggregated into economic, social, environmental and overall sustainability indices using linear aggregation. The sustainability performance indicator and index scores were ranked from 0 to 1 and grouped into three categories of sustainability indicator / index scores namely The R-to-R systems and the R-to-U systems using a two-tailed Student’s t-test. The third step involved analysis of the relationships between the farm and milk producers’ organisations (POs) sustainability performances. The differences between farm sustainability mean performance indicators and indices for PO-member farmers and non-PO-member farmers were analysed using a two-tailed Student’s t-test. The sustainability of POs was assessed using an existing tool, “Producers’ Organisation Sustainability Assessment tool (POSA)”, which is based on a set of six economic and organizational dimensions. The relationships between farm and PO sustainability performance indicators were established using Pearson correlation analysis. The correlation coefficients (r) were categorized as weak (r < 0.3), moderate (0.3 ≤ r < 0.5) and strong (r ≥ 0. 5). Lastly, the study analysed the determinants of smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production farm sustainability. Descriptive statistics were analysed to understand the socio-economic characteristics of milk production farms. Then the socio-economic characteristics were compared between R-to-R systems and R-to-U systems using two-tailed Student’s t-test and chi-square for the means and proportions respectively. The double censored Tobit regression model was applied to analyse the determinants of farm sustainability. The Delphi technique refined an initial set of 57 indicators to a final set of 29 relevant indicators. The relevant indicators included 18 economic, seven environmental and four social indicators. Specifically, the key economic indicators were milk hygiene, cow productivity, income per litre of milk and access to milk market. Social indicators included participation in organizations, women’s empowerment and the education level of the farm manager; while environmental indicators were water conservation and access to water. Results from the farm sustainability assessment show that the economic mean score (0.27 ± 0.20), social mean score (0.32 ± 0.27), environmental mean score (0.31 ± 0.22) and overall mean score (0.30 ± 0.15) of farm sustainability indices were weak. The economic, social and overall sustainability mean performance index scores were significantly higher in the R-to-U systems than in the R-to-R systems (p < 0.05), implying better sustainability of R-to-U systems than R-to-R systems. The overall farm sustainability mean performance index, and its economic and social dimensions scores were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in PO-member farmers than in non-PO-member farmers. The “access to dairy production inputs and services” dimension of POs presented strong positive correlations with the overall farm sustainability performance index and its economic dimension (r = 0.58 and 0.67 respectively; p < 0.01). Similarly, the “access to dairy production inputs and services” of POs showed strong correlations (r = 0.70; p < 0.01) with cow productivity performance indicator. The farmers in R-to-U systems had significantly (p < 0.05) smaller land and herd size than in R-to-R system. Stall feeding system was the determinant factor (β = 0.256; p < 0.01) of economic sustainability. The determinant factors for social sustainability were stall feeding system (β = 0.165; p < 0.01), age of household head (β = 0.003; p < 0.05) and acquiring credit (β = 0.190; p < 0.01). The factor influencing environmental sustainability was stall feeding system (β = 0.098; p < 0.01). The factors influencing the overall sustainability were stall feeding system (β = 0.161; p < 0.01), the age of the household head (β = 0.001; p < 0.01) and acquiring credit (β = 0.081; p < 0.01). From the results of the study, it is concluded that a large number of existing indicators like greenhouse gas emissions could be considered less relevant in the context of Tanzania’s smallholder dairy and traditional cattle system than in other contexts. The study showed that 29 out of 57 sustainability indicators assessed were relevant to the studied system. The indicators identified here demonstrate the importance of matching any set of indicators to the characteristics of the specific production system being examined. The study provided a tool and framework for assessing sustainability of milk production farms in smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production systems in Tanzania using a set of 15 most relevant sustainability indicators out of the selected 29 indicators. The most relevant economic indicators were milk hygiene and cow productivity; social indicators were participation in organizations and women’s empowerment; environmental indicators were access to water and water conservation. Regarding the level of sustainability of the milk production farms, the results showed that the sustainability performances of smallholder dairy and traditional cattle milk production farms in the selected districts were weak, particularly in R-to-R system. Producers’ organisation sustainability performances, particularly its provision of dairy inputs, have strong positive relationship with farm sustainability performances, particularly the farm economic dimension. Indeed, stall feeding and access to credit tend to improve farm sustainability. From the results of the study, continued private and public investments in the non- traditional dairy areas and promotion of market linkages to urban areas where milk demand is stronger, is recommended not only for immediate improvement of livelihoods but also for sustainability considerations. Indeed, intensive dairy systems should be encouraged for higher sustainability of milk production and this could be possible by improving access to inputs and embedded services. The developed framework can be used by farmers, policy and decision makers to enable them identify key strengths and weaknesses and make respective decision towards sustainable milk production during implementation of dairy improvement programs.
Assessment and characterization of food types consumed by hadzabe hunter-gatherer nomads in northern Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Migata, Mabula Masunga
The aim of this study was to assess and characterize the food types consumed by Hadzabe hunter-gatherer nomads in Karatu and Meatu districts, northern Tanzania. A total of 259 respondents from the target districts were involved in the study. Through cross-sectional study design, the data were collected using structured and semi-structured questionnaires to investigate the temporal patterns for the availability of food types consumed. Micronutrients (Cadmium, Copper, Chromium, Ferrous, Zinc, Magnesium in mg/l and %Calcium) and proximate composition of macronutrients were analysed in three common consumed roots (Ekwa, Magharitako and Shumugo). Overall, 47 varieties of plant species were consumed but only 15 among them were recognized by their scientific names. Twenty eight type of leaf vegetables, 16 root/tubers and 15 wild fruits/berries were identified among consumed plant materials and 29 animal species. Findings from spatial analysis demonstrated that honey (96.5%), meat (91.9%) and roots (76.4%) were found both during dry and rain season. The analyses of micronutrients showed that Cu, Cr, Mg and Fe (mg/l) in the samples exceeded the WHO Maximum Acceptable Residue Level (MARL). In particular, moisture content in Shumugo roots was higher (90%) than the WHO recommended levels. It is concluded that there are many varieties of wild food consumed and their availability depends on the season. The examined roots for micronutrients are probably toxic for Fe, Cr and Cu that requires further toxicity studies. There is need to raise awareness about the risks and hazards associated with nomadism, that include among other things inadequacy of vital nutrients in their diets that may cause malnutrition; and also toxic natural food types.
Assessment of bio-security knowledge, attitude and hygienic practices among smallholder chicken farmers in Southern Mozambique
(Academic Journal, 2025) Mugabe, Noémia André; Kussaga, Jamal; Issa-Zacharia, Abdulsudi
The production of broiler chickens in intensive systems struggles to maintain hygiene in production, despite contributing to combating malnutrition, generating employment, and increasing family income, especially in developing countries. Using a structured questionnaire survey, a cross-sectional study was carried out among 395 smallholder farmers to evaluate their knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to farm biosecurity in urban and peri-urban areas of Mozambique and determine the factors affecting KAP (knowledge, attitude, and practice) levels. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) (IBM version 27). The findings indicate that education level and training significantly influence (p < 0.001) food safety in terms of biosecurity knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Smallholders who attended food safety training exhibited positive attitudes (95.5%, mean score of 89.71 ± 10.1) in contrast to those who did not participate in training (74.8%, mean score of 79.91 ± 9.68). Additionally, washing hands with soap before and after using the toilet and wearing protective clothing during chicken husbandry were significantly associated with education level (χ² = 15.345, P = 0.018); those with informal education were 34% less likely to have a negative attitude toward food safety compared to those with high education. A significant correlation (p < 0.01) was observed between residence area, training, and biosecurity knowledge, attitude, and practice. Because smallholders lack training, hygiene expertise, and biosecurity practices on their farms, this study concluded that they pose a risk to public health and food safety. To maintain consumer health and guarantee food safety, farmers should properly dispose of waste, including dead chickens, and receive continuous training in excellent biosecurity measures on the farm.
Assessment of complementary foods and child feeding practices in Dodoma Region, Tanzania
(2014-06) Lyimo, M.; Muzanila, Y.
A study was carried out in Dodoma region, Tanzania to assess complementary foods and child feeding practices. Three hundred and twenty mothers with children aged between 6 to 24 months were selected randomly in four districts (Bahl, Chamwino, Dodoma Municipality and Kondoa) and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The data were analysed using the descriptive statistics. Results show that maize, sorghum and linger millet were commonly used cereals JOr child Pods In Dodoma region. All respondents introduced complementary food's using available cereals before their children attained the age of six months. The average age when children were introduced to complementary foods was between 3.2 and 4.7 months; being lowest in Dodoma Municipality and highest in Kondoa. Utilization and preference of cereals used in complementary foods varied among districts. Utilization of sorghum porridge hi respondents ranged from 23.8% in Chaniwino to 27.8% in Dodoma Municipality. Maize porridge ranged from 24.7% in Chamwino, to 31.3% in Kondoa. Finger millet was the most highly used cereal in Kondoa at (61.2%). Grounchnits, common legumes in Dodoma, were used in complementary fouls at different rates varying from 20.5% in Chal1710110 to 32.4% in Kondoa. Respondents who Jeed children three meals per day ranged from 23.9% in Chainwino, to 26.4 % in Dodonia Municipality. These results show that most respondents did not adhere to the recommended practices of exclusive breast jeeding for six months. There is a need 1hcrelbrc' to sensitize Wainen and the community at large on the importance of recommended practices for breast feeding and promote appropriate complementary Pods and feeding practices in order to avoid likely health complication among
Assessment of consumer’s knowledge and practices on pesticide residues reduction in tomatoes in Mvomero, Morogoro region, Tanzania
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2023-09-14) Fundikira S.; Emmanuella S.; Msollo S.
Pesticides are important components of agricultural production but the consumption of crops treated with pesticides, even in small quantities, can accumulate in the human body and cause health problems. Therefore, consumers’ knowledge and practices on reduction of these residues is essential however, there is scant of information on consumers’ knowledge and practices on pesticide residues reduction in tomatoes in Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Mvomero District in Morogoro region among 280 randomly selected consumers. Questionnaires were administered through face-to-face interviews to assess knowledge and practices on the reduction of pesticide residues in tomatoes before consumption. Data were analyzed using SPSSTM version 20 to obtain descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that 64.6% of respondents know that pesticides can cause health effects of which, 41% are not sure of the specific health problem with few mentioning cancers. About 80% of respondents know that tomatoes sold in the market have pesticide residues. Majority of respondents (78.9%) believe that the pesticide residues in tomatoes disappear after cooking. Seventy-five percent of respondents reported that they know methods for reducing pesticide residues of which 66.8% reported to be reducing pesticide residues by washing with water. Generally, consumer’s knowledge on health effects and practices on reduction of pesticide residues before consumption was relatively poor. Hence, there is a need for improving knowledge on reducing pesticide residues in tomatoes using cost-effective methods that are applicable at the household level. Knowledge on the health effects of pesticide residues was significantly associated with having a mobile phone, reading newspapers, and attending training on pesticides and associated health effects. Therefore, phones, radio, and newspapers may be used as effective methods for communicating health information to the public.

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