School of Engineering and Technology

Permanent URI for this communityhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/4214

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 98

Acceptability of soup powders made from selected traditional leafy vegetables grown in Lindi, Tanzania
(2021) Abdallah, A.; Chove, L. M.
A study was conducted to assess the acceptability of soup formulated from traditional leafy vegetables (TLVs) grown in Lindi, Tanzania. Three TLVs, Amaranth hybrids known as amaranthus leaves (AML), Manihortesculenta known as cassava leaves (CAL) and Ipomeabatatas known as sweet potatoes leaves (SPL) which had been optimized for Iron content, were used to prepare 4 vegetable soup formulations (F1– 60.0:7.5:22.5); (F2 –70.0:5.0:15.0); (F3 –80.0:2.5:7.5) and (F4 –40.0:10.0:40.0) respectively. Descriptive sensory analysis was performed by10 trained panelists who used 5 descriptors to quantitatively describe the sensory characteristics of four soup formulations. Thirty consumers assessed the degree of liking of products’ sensory attributes using a 7-point hedonic scale. External preference mapping was performed by relating sensory data with hedonic responses. Mean intensity ratings of descriptive attributes of the soup showed that F1, F2 and F3had significantly higher(p<0.05) mean intensity scores in colour, aroma, and mouth feel than F4. The consumer study showed that, with exception of mouth feel, consumers showed significant differences (p<0.05) between samples in colour, aroma, taste and overall acceptability. It was thus concluded thatF1 was the most liked by consumers due to colour, aroma and mouth feel followed by F2 and then F3 and finally F4. Furthermore, the preference mapping results showed that colour, aroma and mouth feel attributes were the main drivers for positive consumer preference for vegetable soup. Thus, selection and processing of vegetables, which retain these attributes, is of greater importance for consumer acceptability and hence increased utilization for consumer’s health and well-being.
An examination of alternative fertilizer transportation, warehousing and application systems for agricultural cooperatives
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2004) Kilima Fredy Timothy Mlyavidoga
The difficulty of controlling cost in a dynamic industry where competitiveness and costs are changing over time has long been recognized. Conventional wisdom suggests that players who succeed in such an industrial setting are those who capture the opportunities presented by a new business environment while maintaining economic efficiency (Bello, Lohtia and Sangtani; Flint). In recent years, one of the business challenges for fertilizer suppliers in the United States has been to keep pace with the changing business environment. The changes arise from changing demand, growing global competition, increased regulations in the industry for environmental and safety reasons, and improvements in the transportation and application methods. The improvement in fertilizer distribution and application methods is by and large a reflection of changes in the physical condition and operating characteristics of highways, and changes in farm transportation and application equipment (USDA, Agricultural Cooperative Service). Changes in fertilizer demand and increased market competition are attributable to changes in farm application systems, and consolidation of farming business that has decreased the number of farms and increased the average farm size (Norton).
Application of slightly acidic electrolyzed water as a potential sanitizer in the food industry
(Hindawi, 2024-02-29) Issa-Zacharia,Abdulsudi
Te food industry has extensively explored postharvest microbial control, seeking viable technologies to ensure food safety. Although numerous chlorine-based commercial sanitizers serve this purpose, many are plagued by constraints such as instability and diminished disinfectant efcacy. Tese issues arise from exposure to organic matter in wash water, light, or air. As an innovative and promising alternative, slightly acidic electrolyzed water (SAEW) has emerged, captivating attention for its robust sterilization potential and eco-friendliness in agricultural and food sectors. SAEW generated via electrolysis of a diluted hydrochloric acid (HCl) solution with concentrations ranging from 2 to 6% or aqueous solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) in a nonmembrane electrolytic chamber is reported to possess equivalent antimicrobial properties as strong acidic electrolyzed water (StAEW). In contrast to traditional chlorine sanitizers, SAEW leaves less chlorine residue on sanitized foods such fresh-cut fruit and vegetables, meat, poultry, and aquatic products due to its low available chlorine concentration (ACC). Its near neutral pH of 5 to 6.5 not only renders it environmentally benign but also mitigates the production of chlorine gas, a contrast to low pH conditions seen in StAEW generation. Te bactericidal efect of SAEW against various strains of foodborne pathogens is widely believed and accepted to be due to the combined action of high oxidation-reduction-potential (ORP) reactions and undissociated hypochlorite/ hypochlorous acid (HOCl). Consequently, a burgeoning interest surrounds the potential of SAEW for sanitation in the food industry, ofering an alternative to address shortcomings in sodium hypochlorite solutions and even StAEW. It has been hy- pothesized from a number of studies that SAEW treatment can increase the quality and nutritional value of harvested fruits, which in turn may enhance their ability to be stored. Terefore, SAEW is not only a promising sanitizer in the food industry but also has the potential to be an efcient strategy for encouraging the accumulation of bioactive chemicals in plants, especially if it is used extensively. Tis review encapsulates the latest insights concerning SAEW, encompassing its antimicrobial efectiveness, san- itization mechanism, advantages vis-à-vis other sanitizers, and plausible applications across the food industry
Assessing potential land and surface water resources available and suitable for irrigated agriculture in the wami sub-basin Morogoro
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2021) Malekela, Charles John
Assessing potential land and water resources suitable for surface irrigation is essential for proper planning of their utilization types. The assessment has a great role in satisfying subsistence requirements, increasing agricultural production and hence reducing poverty. Despite efforts made by various stakeholders to improve agricultural productivity by increasing irrigated areas, Tanzania is still facing a daunting task of reaching the one million hectare target of irrigated area. This indicates that land and water resources are not presently effectively utilized. This study was initiated with the objective of assessing the land and water resources suitable for irrigated agriculture along with the extent of small-scale irrigation in the Wami sub-basin. Geographical Information System (GIS) based on Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) was used along with various spatial tools including a model builder which was used to create geo-referenced maps of land and water resources. Ten layers (irrigation suitability factors) were used in the analysis for identification of potential land suitable for irrigated agriculture. Results indicate that, based on the suitability factors about 841.39 km 2 (3.11% of the total area), is highly suitable for surface irrigation, about 18,244.41 km 2 (67.51%), is moderately suitable and 7939.87 km 2 (29.38%), is marginally suitable for surface irrigation. Furthermore, results shows that the extent of small-scale irrigation is about 1958.87 km 2 . Moreover, results indicates that, approximately 1958 km 2 of land assumed to represent the extent of small- scale irrigated areas in Morogoro region including Dakawa and Mvomero in particular. As such, the exploration of various resources as observed in this study, including land, soil and water was well demonstrated by the integration of GIS-Based Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA), and the weighted overlay technique for land suitability analysis.
Assessment of bacterial contamination and associated risk factors in pork slaughtered and marketed in urban Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2023-10) Nonga Cosmas; Zacharia Issa; Mkupasi Ernatus; Ngowi Helena
Introduction: In Tanzania, pork consumption is increasing and become popular in urban areas creating a good market for pigs raised in rural areas. However, little is known regarding the microbial safety of the marketed pork in the country. This study assessed the level of bacterial contamination and contributing factors in pork slaughtered and sold in Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Dodoma Tanzania through Total Viable count, Coliform count, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus count. Methods: A cross-section study was conducted and a total of 90 pork samples were collected from pig slaughter facilities, pork centres and butcheries. Standard methods for microbial analysis in food products (ISO 7218:2007(E)) were used. Results: It was revealed that all (100%) pork samples had bacteria contamination with an overall mean for total viable count of 5.93±1.50 log CFU/g, and coliform forming unit of 4.30±1.14 log CFU/g. Over 92.2% of the pork samples were contaminated by E.coli with a mean count of 3.12±1.33 and S. aureus was isolated in more than 84.4% with a mean count of 2.71±1.34 log CFU/g. The mean values were higher than the limit set by Tanzania Standard (TBS/AFDC 22 (5266) P3). In addition, 79.4% of the pork slaughter facilities and selling points surveyed had poor hygiene and lacked safety and quality control measures. Conclusion: Thus, it may be deduced that the pork carcasses assessed were of poor microbiological quality posing a health risk to pork consumers. To minimize public health risks, food control authorities should ensure effective enforcement of policies and regulations in controlling pig slaughtering and pork marketing in the country. Also, education on hygienic practices for all stakeholders along the pork value chain should be provided.
Assessment of compliance with good agricultural practices in pig farming in Mpwapwa and Mbulu districts, Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis Group, 2023-07-14) Nonga, Cosmas; Zacharia, Issa; Mkupasi, Ernatus; Ngowi, Helena
A cross-sectional study was conducted between February and May 2022 to explore the pig farming practices and assess their compliance with Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and their associated constraints in Mpwapwa and Mbulu districts. A total of 136 pig farmers were randomly chosen from purposively selected wards for interview using a structured questionnaire. The study revealed that 71.3% of all pig farmers were aware of GAPs on pig farming, but only 19.8% of the pig farmers complied with the stipulated GAPs. About 81.6% of the respondents had poor piggery hygiene and 76.5% had poor piggery conditions. Pig farmers reported the cost of feeds (83.8%) and veterinary services (81.6%) to be the hindrance to compliance with GAPs. It was concluded that pig farmers are aware of GAPs but not all implement them. Limited availability and high costs of pig feeds and veterinary services are among the factors limiting the full implemantation of GAP in pig farming in the Mpwapwa and Mbulu districts. Therefore, there is a need for the Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries Development and private investors to collaborate to ensure accessibility to Agro-vet services in rural areas with minimal cost. A positive effect could also result from encouraging pig farmers to use locally available ingredients to compose pig feeds.
Assessment of indoor storage technology on white colour sweet potato tubers (Ipomoea batatas L.Lam) in Morogoro, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024-04) Kimako, Joseph R.
Sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.Lam.) is a dicotyledonous plant grown as a tuber crop. Sweet potatoes originated from tropical America (Coop, 2010). Sweet potatoes are widely cultivated mainly around the lake zone, eastern zones, southern highlands, and northern parts of Tanzania (URT, 2016). It is grown by 771,257 households during short rainy and long rainy seasons, with an estimated annual production of 504,346 tonnes (NBS 2012). Sweet potato tubers contribute to food security and income generation (Ahmad et al., 2014). Sweet potatoes' high perishability after harvesting is one of the major factors limiting their potential. Insufficient information concerning efficient storage technology limits farmers and traders from choosing the best technology to reduce losses. The research by Teye et al. (2011) compared two storage technologies: the Purpose-Built Evaporative Cooling Barn and Modified Pit Storage under Ghana conditions, neglecting other sweet potato storage technologies. Further research by Mpagalile et al. (2007) used the traditional pit, improved open pit, improved housed pit (mjinge) and raised woven structure (Kihenge) to evaluate the storability of sweet potato under Tanzania conditions neglecting other sweet potato storage technologies. Purpose Evaporative Cooling Barn and housed pit storage are still techniques used to attain optimum temperature and relative humidity for sweet potato storage with temperatures between 12.5°C and 15°C and relative humidity from 85% to 90%. Nevertheless, their adaptability to small-scale farmers and traders in developing countries like Tanzania is limited due to their high initial capital and high running costs for White-coloured sweet potato tubers. Small-scale farmers and traders are in high demand for storage technology, which is low in capital and running costs. Indoor storage technologies are a better choice as they maintain proper storage temperature and relative humidity through ventilation and are used in hot and arid areas (Baimey et al., 2017). In this technology, White coloured sweet potato tubers can be stored with minimum changes in colour, weight, rotting and firmness (Gopala, 2015).This study aimed to assess indoor storage technology on white colour sweet potato tubers (ipomoea batatas l.lam) in Morogoro, Tanzania, that will help to minimise losses of white sweet potato tubers. According to the findings, the most significant cause of post-harvest losses was rodent attack, which was reported by 26.53% and 25% of farmers and traders in Gairo and Morogoro municipalities, respectively, and the extent of white-coloured sweet potato tuber losses observed was 18.36% of farmers and traders in Gairo and 79% of farmers and traders in Morogoro municipality have reported to suffer from moderate post-harvest losses. White-coloured sweet potato tubers stored in ventilated bags and the improved traditional raised platform resulted in a weight loss of 49.4% and 68.7%, respectively. It was also observed that the improved traditional raised platform had a significantly high total soluble content /concentration, with a value of 21.27%. In comparison, Ventilated bags resulted in a Total soluble solid content of 17.02 %, which was significantly low. Furthermore, results show that Ventilated bags had the lowest beta carotene content (8.72 μg/g) compared to other treatments. Results indicate that traders’ source of funding for their sweet potato selling activity was own/self-financing, estimated at 70%, loans estimated at 19.37%, and remittances estimated at 10.63%. Also, the study's findings demonstrate that the single and multi-stage channel systems are the two main sweet potato marketing channels. Retailers constitute 57.5% of respondents, wholesalers 27.5%, and other trades (Middlemen/SME processors) 15%. Furthermore, a study indicated that 21% of traders produce sweet potatoes on their farms, and 97% of merchants purchase sweet potatoes directly from farmers also, 42% purchase sweet potatoes through wholesalers/aggregators. Results continued to reveal that by using ventilated bags storage technology, farmers and traders could earn higher profits, which was Tsh 19,000/= more than other storage technologies (improved traditional raised bamboo buckets and woven Polypropylene Bags.The study results indicate a need to improve post-harvest loss awareness among white-coloured sweet potato farmers and traders to reduce loss and thus begin producing profitably. Also, controlling rodents, avoiding injury, building a proper storage facility and inspecting the stores regularly are the most important aspects to consider when preventing losses. Also, findings suggest that storing white-coloured sweet potato tubers in ventilated bags is appropriate. Using ventilated bags can also be effective when storing undamaged sweet potato tubers. Farmers and traders are advised to sort and grade their tubers before storage. Furthermore, additional research studies should be conducted to develop awareness of other types of storage and methods for reducing sweet potato losses to impact food security in society.
Assessment of irrigation systems’ performance and sustainability in Burundi
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2022) Manirakiza, Prosper
Irrigated agriculture has a crucial role to play in enhancing food security; hence, irrigation expansion would significantly increase agricultural production, improving household income and reduce food insecurity and poverty levels among smallholder farmers. However, majority of irrigation schemes developed in Burundi have performed below their potential. Evaluation of the performance of an irrigation schemes is essential in knowing whether water availability meets or exceeds demand. In Burundi, these evaluations are limited. This study aimed to assess the irrigation systems’ performance and sustainability in Burundi with a case study of Kidwebezi Irrigation Scheme. Specifically, this study intended (i) to evaluate the performance of the irrigation structures, (ii) to assess the water delivery performance using technical indicators and (iii) framers’ knowledge and to assess the effect of Irrigators’ Association on the performance of Kidwebezi Irrigation scheme with the target of evaluating the existing operation rules and proposing alternative options for further improvement. In this study, a float method was used for determining the flow rate. The CROPWAT Penman-Monteith method was used to determine the reference crop evapotranspiration, the combination of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) CROPWAT 8.0 simulation software and the CLIMWAT 2.0 tool was used to calculate the crop water requirement (CWR) of the paddy. Field observations (state of a structure) and physical work were used to evaluate the performance of the irrigation structures. Based on the technical performance indicators such as efficiency, adequacy, dependability, equity and water productivity, the performance of water delivery was assessed. A social economic survey (farmer interviews, focus group discussions and key informants) was undertaken to assess financial self-sufficiency, fee collection and relative water costs of the scheme. Results for the performance evaluation of irrigation structures showed that 84.15%were still functioning. On the physical condition part, the findings showed that the intake was working at 80%; canals network was operational at 80% while command area development was functioning at 88%. For the conveyance efficiency, the results indicate that 82.48%, 80.40% and 66.38% of water conveyed reached the destined farm for lined main canal, lined secondary canal and unlined secondary canal, respectively. The total net irrigation and total gross irrigation were 342.2 mm and 760.4 mm. The study results showed that the irrigation system was good in terms of adequacy and poor in terms of efficiency while it was fair to both dependability and equity. Moreover, the results for the assessment of effect of Irrigators’ Association with regard to financial viability and sustainability of the scheme were found to be encouraging. The results showed that the effectiveness of fee collection (EFC) was 87.77%, the financial self-sufficiency (FSS) was 3.11 with an average relative water cost of 0.05 and 97.75% of the scheme were still irrigated. The results from farmer interviews, focus group discussions and key informant showed that the uncontrolled paddy farming expansion, lack of updated irrigation knowledge and technologies and low efficiency on water use are the main causes of low yields of paddy in the Kidwebezi Irrigation Scheme.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes and practices on breastfeeding among HIV infected mothers with infants in Kibaha town council
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) RWERAMIRA,MARGARETH CLEMENT
Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices (KAP) on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers are important in determining the health and nutritional status of their children. The HIV pandemic and the risk of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT) of HIV, especially through breastfeeding (BF) poses special difficulties to HIV-infected mothers, their infants and the community. This study was designed to assess KAP on breastfeeding among HIV-infected mothers having children aged 0-12 months living in Kibaha Town Council. A cross-sectional, descriptive study design was employed and convenient sampling procedure was used to select the respondents. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire which were administered by face to face interview. Data analysis was done using Statistical Package for the Social Science (SPSS) 15.0 version computer software. The study findings revealed that there is limitation in terms of KAP on BF, complementation and infant feeding options among the HIV-infected mothers. Breastfeeding was chosen by majority of respondents (96%) compared to replacement feeding (6%). About 76% of mothers ceased to practice EBF before their infants were six months old due to fear of MTCT of HIV. The study also revealed that mothers’ level of education was significantly associated with their knowledge (p = 0.00403). Mixed feeding (63.6%) and nipple cracks (77.8%) were the most known factors by the respondents to increase the risk of MTCT of HIV. Breast conditions such as sore/cracked nipples; fear of stigma; lack of counselling and follow up from the health workers; and cultural beliefs such as BF by using one breast were observed as the constraints faced by the respondents. Counselling services on infant feeding options, regular follow to mothers and more training to the counsellors on BF and PMTCT of HIV need to be strengthened
Assessment of physical status of the irrigation structures in Nyarubogo irrigation scheme, Rwanda
(2024-09) Bosco,Tuyisabe Jean; Festo,Richard Silungwe; Mahoo,Henry F
The physical status of irrigation structures holds immense importance in ensuring the efficient and sustainable management of water resources for agricultural purposes. This study aimed to assess the physical status of the Nyarubogo irrigation scheme structures, which has implications for the level of performance of this irrigation scheme. Specifically, the study assessed the effectiveness of the irrigation infrastructures in terms of intake efficiency, canal physical condition, and command area development. Cross sectional study design was employed, and units for the study were randomly selected to be included in this study. Observation method were used to characterize the physical condition of the Nyarubogo irrigation scheme while questionnaire survey were used to collect data on the implication of socioeconomic characteristics on the performance, and effectiveness of irrigation system. The collected data were fitted to the irrigation structures assessment approaches suggested by Bos, Zende and Nagarajan. Analysis of farmer’s responses was through Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (Version 27). This study evaluated the physical status of about 130 irrigation structures in Nyarubogo irrigation scheme. The structures included 7 division boxes, 73 water drops, 2 aqueducts, 42 turnouts, 4 bridges, and 2 Culverts. Overall, the scheme had an effectiveness of 63.8%, with culverts, bridges, and water drops presenting more than the average functional condition of 64.38%, 75.00%, and 100.00%, respectively. The intake efficiency during this study was found to be 67% accumulated from efficiencies of sediment level (20%), embankment (35%), and sluice gate (12%) based on their weightage percentage and rank scores. The overall canal condition was good and was quantified to 70%. The command area development was exhibiting subpar performance, registering a mere 32% effectiveness. Moreover, the study evaluated how farmers' socio-economic status influenced the inadequate maintenance of the Nyarubogo irrigation systems. It uncovered numerous elements contributing to this dilemma: there was limited engagement of women and youth in agricultural pursuits, low educational attainment, challenges surrounding land ownership (specifically, land tenure), the small size of land holdings per household and a notable absence of government incentives for maintenance efforts. These factors, however, when coupled with inadequate funds derived from water fees, significantly obstruct the proper care of these irrigation infrastructures. On the other hand, high runoff due to heavy rainfall was mentioned by the majority of farmers (20.7%) among the primary causes of poor maintenance of irrigation structures. Generally, the evaluation of the Nyarubogo irrigation system structures emphasizes the uneven levels of efficacy and challenges, highlighting the necessity of focused maintenance efforts and enhanced water management techniques.
Assessment of Soil and Water physical and chemical properties for Crop production in the Nyarubogo irrigation scheme, Rwanda
(Rwanda Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2024-09-20) Tuyisabe J. B; Silungwe F. R; Mahoo H. F
Agricultural production is significantly influenced by the soil and water quality, especially in irrigation systems, where poor management may result in degraded soil and lower crop yields. This study is noteworthy because it tackles the problems of nutrient imbalances, salinity, and acidity in the Nyarubogo irrigation system. This study aimed to assess the irrigation scheme's soil and water quality to spot any hazards to crop productivity and suggest suitable mitigation measures. A wide range of characteristics, such as pH, nutrient content, total dissolved solids (TDS), magnesium adsorption ratio (MAR), soluble sodium percentage (SSP), adsorption ratio (SAR), and electrical conductivity (EC), were determined on a comprehensive set of soil and water samples. The results showed that, with pH values ranging from 5.1 to 6.9, most of the soils in the study area are acidic, which may hinder crop development and nutrient availability. Furthermore, the soil demonstrated a moderate cation exchange capacity (CEC), suggesting a respectable ability to retain nutrients. The SAR of the water samples in this study ranged from 0.22 to 0.28 meq/l, indicating that water was suitable for irrigation and that no adverse effects were anticipated. It is evident from the high MAR values found in irrigation water that cautious management is required to avoid long-term soil deterioration. To lessen the negative consequences of acidity, salinity, and nutrient imbalances, this research emphasizes the need to routinely monitor the soil and water and use specific soil management techniques. The findings establish a basis for enhancing soil health and maintaining agricultural output, giving farmers and agricultural managers involved in the Nyarubogo irrigation project crucial information.
Attitude towards learning food and nutrition subject and eating behaviours of ordinary level secondary school students in Dodoma region.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2022) Songo, Vashty Nyabhigeso
The learning outcome of food and nutrition subject depends on attitude of the leaners towards the subject. In Tanzania, food and nutrition subject is taught in selected secondary schools at the ordinary level education and in even fewer schools at the advanced level. This study aimed to determine whether the attitudes towards learning food and nutrition subject influence eating behaviours of secondary school students. Data were collected in Dodoma region from three purposively selected secondary schools. The study involved 381 students who were randomly selected whereby 194 students opted and 187 did not opt to study food and nutrition subject. Nutrition information in the syllabus, teaching and learning materials were collected through documentary desk review. Students' attitudes towards studying food and nutrition subject and their eating behaviours were assessed through structured questionnaires that included, the dietary diversity component among others. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 20 software was used to analyze descriptive and inferential statistics where t-test was conducted while qualitative data were analyzed by the text analytics program and interpreted according to the emerging themes. The study observed that syllabus had objectives that were relevant to the nutritional needs of the country. The subject specific textbooks were absent instead there were eleven (11) reference books used in all the surveyed schools. Those reference books had outdated nutrition information hence, not satisfactory to fulfil the need of the current syllabus and on address the existing problem of triple burden of malnutrition. Gender was found to influence choosing of the subject since mean attitude scores for males (M = 2.0154) which was half to that of females (M = 4.4995). Opting to study the subject influences eating behaviour significantly (p-value < 0.01). Among the 194 students who opted to study food and nutrition subject, 93% had proper eating behaviour because number of food groups eaten per day was five and above hence their dietary diversity score was above five (5). The students who had improper eating behaviour due to the fact that their diet consist less than five food groups was 7% hence their dietary diversity score was below five. The study concluded that students practice what was taught to improve their eating behaviour because students who opted for Food and Nutrition Subject had adequate dietary diversity in their diet compared to those who did not opt for studying the subject. The study recommends that, subject extracurricular activities on nutrition programs should be given to all students in order to emphasis and provide opportunity of improving their eating behaviour for their lifelong future benefits.
Autonomous navigation of a center-articulated and Hydrostatic transmission rover using a modified Pure pursuit algorithm in a cotton field
(MDPI, 2020-08-07) Kadeghe, Fue; Wesley, Porter; Edward, Barnes; Changying, Li; Glen, Rains
This study proposes an algorithm that controls an autonomous, multi-purpose, center-articulated hydrostatic transmission rover to navigate along crop rows. This multi-purpose rover (MPR) is being developed to harvest undefoliated cotton to expand the harvest window to up to 50 days. The rover would harvest cotton in teams by performing several passes as the bolls become ready to harvest. We propose that a small robot could make cotton production more profitable for farmers and more accessible to owners of smaller plots of land who cannot afford large tractors and harvesting equipment. The rover was localized with a low-cost Real-Time Kinematic Global Navigation Satellite System (RTK-GNSS), encoders, and Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU)s for heading. Robot Operating System (ROS)-based software was developed to harness the sensor information, localize the rover, and execute path following controls. To test the localization and modified pure-pursuit path-following controls, first, GNSS waypoints were obtained by manually steering the rover over the rows followed by the rover autonomously driving over the rows. The results showed that the robot achieved a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.04 m, 0.06 m, and 0.09 m for the first, second and third passes of the experiment, respectively. The robot achieved an MAE of 0.06 m. When turning at the end of the row, the MAE from the RTK-GNSS-generated path was 0.24 m. The turning errors were acceptable for the open field at the end of the row. Errors while driving down the row did damage the plants by moving close to the plants’ stems, and these errors likely would not impede operations designed for the MPR. Therefore, the designed rover and control algorithms are good and can be used for cotton harvesting operations.
Awareness of aflatoxin contamination and safety of maize along supply chain in Kondoa and Chemba districts in Dodoma, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2022) Ndwata, Asha Hamad
Maize (Zea mays) is a staple food for the majority of people in Tanzania, which plays a key role in subsistence and as a cash crop among actors of the maize value chain. The study was conducted during the 2020–2021 cropping season in two districts, Kondoa and Chemba, in the Dodoma region of central Tanzania. The objectives were to assess stakeholders' awareness of aflatoxin contamination in maize (smallholder farmers, traders, and consumers), to assess post-harvest handling practices of maize among smallholder farmers, and to determine the current levels of aflatoxins B 1 contamination in maize. Structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. A cross-sectional survey was used in collecting primary data. A total of 380 respondents, including smallholder farmers, traders, and consumers from each ward, were selected. In addition, 90 maize samples (40 from smallholder farmers, 20 from traders, and 30 from consumers) were analyzed for aflatoxins using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). The results show about 56% of the smallholder farmers and 52% of the traders were aware of the contamination. However, the majority of the main stakeholder (consumer) was unaware of the contamination with aflatoxins (74%). Moreover, the result shows smallholder farmers had inadequate knowledge of best post-harvest practices and these were associated with post-harvest losses and the microbiological quality of maize. It was observed that the majority of smallholder farmers (75% ) used traditional post-harvest handling practices such as harvesting maize and placing it on the ground, storing maize in galleries, drying (on the ground); use of polypropylene bags as a storage facility. Few samples of the maize value chain were contaminated with AFB 1 and total aflatoxins. Furthermore, the result shows five-point six percent (5.6%) of collected samples were contaminated with aflatoxins B 1 , and 3.3% of the aflatoxins samples exceeded the European Union (EU) and Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) regulatory limits for AFB 1 and were mainly collected from traders in Kondoa district. Extension workers should train farmers on effective post-harvest management practices of maize in order to minimize losses and improve the quality. In addition, efforts should be made to educate the general public, particularly consumers, about the dangers of aflatoxins contamination, and affordable techniques should be made available to maize farmers in the Kondoa and Chemba districts of Dodoma, Tanzania, in order to reduce grain losses and increase income and food security.
Bushmeat consumption in Africa: a microbiological safety challenge?
(Asian Food Science Journal, 2023-09-12) Ahouanse Gwladys Gloria Amen; Issa-Zacharia Abdulsudi; Majaliwa Nuria
Objective: This review analyzed the microbiological safety of bushmeat consumed in Africa over the past decades. Methodology: Previous Studies mainly focused on large animals like antelopes and smaller ones like grasscutter. Most microbes studied were similar to those in domestic animal meat, except for rare pathogens such as Salmonella spp, E.coli. Sampling, experiments, and microbe prevalence varied among studies. Results: All studies confirmed the presence of zoonotic pathogens dangerous to human beings. Therefore, more investigations are needed, especially for the chronic and severe cases of pathogens, since only few studies have addressed the bushmeat's microbiological safety in Africa. Conclusion: Efforts should be made to improve bushmeat safety and public health in Africa. New policies and public regulations must be developed and implemented to ensure hygienic and legal bushmeat production in Africa.
Center-articulated hydrostatic cotton harvesting Rover using visual-servoing control and a finite state machine
(MDPI, 2020-07-30) Kadeghe, Fue; Wesley, Porter; Edward, Barnes; Changying, Li; Glen, Rains
Multiple small rovers can repeatedly pick cotton as bolls begin to open until the end of the season. Several of these rovers can move between rows of cotton, and when bolls are detected, use a manipulator to pick the bolls. To develop such a multi-agent cotton-harvesting system, each cotton-harvesting rover would need to accomplish three motions: the rover must move forward/backward, turn left/right, and the robotic manipulator must move to harvest cotton bolls. Controlling these actions can involve several complex states and transitions. However, using the robot operating system (ROS)-independent finite state machine (SMACH), adaptive and optimal control can be achieved. SMACH provides task level capability for deploying multiple tasks to the rover and manipulator. In this study, a center-articulated hydrostatic cotton-harvesting rover, using a stereo camera to locate end-effector and pick cotton bolls, was developed. The robot harvested the bolls by using a 2D manipulator that moves linearly horizontally and vertically perpendicular to the direction of the rover’s movement. We demonstrate preliminary results in an environment simulating direct sunlight, as well as in an actual cotton field. This study contributes to cotton engineering by presenting a robotic system that operates in the real field. The designed robot demonstrates that it is possible to use a Cartesian manipulator for the robotic harvesting of cotton; however, to reach commercial viability, the speed of harvest and successful removal of bolls (Action Success Ratio (ASR)) must be improved.
Chemical quality of stream and borehole water used by selected communities in Lushoto district, Tanzania
(An International Journal of Basic and Applied Research, 2020) Hadija, A.; Chove, L.
The chemical quality of water in two streams and three boreholes from Sunga and Mbaru wards in Lushoto, Tanzania was investigated. Water was collected at three locations along the stream, including forest areas, populated area with agricultural activities and less populated areas with agricultural activities. Borehole’s water was collected from three boreholes found in each ward and analyzed for pH, hardness, BOD, phosphates, nitrates by standard methods. Nested design was applied. Data obtained was analyzed by R-Software for ANOVA. Means were separated by Tukey‘s honest at p<0.05. Significant differences (p<0.05) in all chemical parameters (pH: 6.92- 7.34; Hardness; 23.88+64.43;Nitrite 1.73 -19.80; Phosphate 0.58-3.90; Ammonia 0.02-0.08; Lead -0.001-0.002) were observed in locations within the streams except arsenic. DDT was not detected. With the exception of phosphate in both streams, all water samples tested met TZS (2016) standards and WHO (2011) guidelines. This implies that stream water is considered unsafe for use since it exceeded the maximum phosphate limit by TZS (2016). All parameters tested in borehole water met the requirements for both standards except pH and ammonia which exceeded the WHO water guideline. It is recommended that the communities be educated on the best practices to keep water sources safe.
Colour and antioxidant activities of honey from different floral sources and geographical origins in Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2016) Shekilango, S. G; Mongi, R. J; Shayo, N. B
Honey is a sweet, yellowish liquid that is produced by honey bees and it has been used for many years for nutrition and therapeutic purposes. Its therapeutic potential has been associated to its antioxidant capacity which plays an important protective role in human health through scavenging of free radicals in the human body and thereby decreases the amount of free radical and damage to biological molecules like lipids and DNA. This study was carried out to investigate the effect of floral source (miombo and acacia) and geographical origin (Central, Coastal, Lake, Northern, and Southern Highland) in mainland Tanzania on colour and antioxidant activity of honey samples. Colour, total flavonoids content (TFC), total phenol phenolic contents (TPC) and antioxidant activities of the samples were evaluated using UV/Vis spectrophotometer, Folin-Ciocalteu reagent and Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power (FRAP) methods respectively. There were significant (p<0.05) differences in all parameters assessed between floral sources. Miombo honey samples had higher pfund values (mm) for colour ranged from 31.55 mm (white) to 143.98 (dark amber) than acacia samples with values ranged from 17.33 (extra white) to 62.28 mm (light amber). Miombo samples had higher TFC values of 13.5±0.25-39.9±0.42 mgRE/100g DM) and TPC of 127.9±2.5-395.2 mg GAE/100g DM) than acacia samples with values of 12.7±0.60-17.5±0.38 mgRE/100g DM and 119.5-168.2 mg GAE/100g DM respectively. Similarly, significantly (p<0.05) highest and lowest FRAP values of 488.9-956.3 and 252.6-368.26 μM Fe2+/100g DM were observed in Miombo and acacia honey samples respectively. Moreover, variations in colour, TFC, TPC and FRAP between zones were significant (p<0.05). Within the miombo samples, northern and coastal zones had respective lowest and highest values whereas central and northern zones had respective lowest and highest values within the acacia samples. A strong correlation (R2= 0.942) between TPC and antioxidant activities of honey samples suggest that the antioxidant of honey is highly linked to TPC. Therefore, the study has revealed that, floral sources and geographical origins have varied significant effects on colour, flavonoids, total phenols and antioxidant activities of Mainland Tanzania honey. Honey samples from miombo floral source had higher antioxidant activities and hence their consumption is more recommended.
Compliance by SMEs to existing Tanzania standards with respect escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus in cultured milk: a case of Dar es salaam, Tanzania
(An International Journal of Basic and Applied Research, 2021) Samwel, J.; Chove, L. M.
Small and medium enterprises are important for economic growth not only in Tanzania but all over the world. Most of them are informal, without official registration. However, they provide tremendous contribution to food security, nutrition, income generation and poverty reduction in the country. Therefore, upgrading and modernization of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to ensure food security, safety and quality of food has becomes one of the priorities of Tanzania development visions of 2025, which is the blueprint of structural economic transformation of the country. To help achieve this, the present study was conducted to assess the safety of cultured milk. A total of 33 cultured milk samples were collected from 11 SMEs which were analyzed in triplicate to make 99. Two microorganisms, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus were analysed in cultured milk. Results were compared against the existing Tanzania standards. The isolates had an overall mean of 2.02 × 102 ± 1.73 × 102CFU/g, 1.91×102 ± 1.85 ×102CFU/g respectively for E. coli and S. aureusc count. The results obtained were higher than the limits set by the Tanzanian Standard (TZS1625:2013). It may thus be concluded that sampled cultured milk was of poor microbial quality and hence not safe for consumption. Poor hygienic practices during milk handling pose a high risk to cultured milk and render it unsafe for human consumption.
Deep learning based Real-time GPU-accelerated tracking and counting of cotton bolls under field conditions using a moving camera
(2018 ASABE Annual International Meeting, 2018-08) Fue, Kadeghe G.; Porter, Wesley; Rains, Glen
Robotic harvesting involves navigation and environmental perception as first operations before harvesting of the bolls can commence. Navigation is the distance required for a harvester’s arm to reach the cotton boll while perception is the position of the boll relative to surrounding environment. These two operations give a 3D position of the cotton boll for picking and can only be achieved by detection and tracking of the cotton bolls in real-time. It means detection, tracking and counting of cotton bolls using a moving camera allows the robotic machine to harvest easily. GPU-accelerated deep neural networks were used to train the convolution networks for detection of cotton bolls. It was achieved by using pretrained tiny yolo weights and DarkFlow, a framework which translates YOLOv2 darknet neural networks to TensorFlow. A method to connect tracklets using vectors that are predicted using Lucas-Kanade algorithm and optimized using robust L-estimators and homography transformation is proposed. The system was tested in defoliated cotton plants during the spring of 2018. Using three video treatments, the counting performance accuracy was around 93% with standard deviation 6%. The system average processing speed was 21 fps in desktop computer and 3.9 fps in embedded system. Detection of the system achieved an accuracy and sensitivity of 93% while precision was 99.9% and F1 score was 1. The Tukey’s test showed that the system accuracy and sensitivity was the same when the plants were rearranged. This performance is crucial for real-time robot decisions that also measure yield while harvesting.

Browse

Browsing School of Engineering and Technology by Title