College of Economics and Business Studies

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A parking systems analysis of factors that affect area and induction of cotton: A case study in Shinyanga regeon, Tanzania
(1980) Kajumulo, D .A .R
This study describes factors that affect area and production of cotton as part of the overall farming system for smallholders in Shinyanga Region, Tanzania .It involve a description of the characteristics of the existing farming systems and assessment of the production efficiency of the cotton producer.Based on farmer’s resources, priorities and production decision, plans to improve cotton production are studied simultaneously with the other crops in the systems and xdesi 'able improvements as suggested./Primary data were collected from 50 randomly-selected farmers in the area for the 1976/77 and 1577/78 crop seasons. Direct programme planning was used to determine optimum resource allocation.Relations between specified variables were tested by means of Chi-square and correlation analyses.Two major types of farming systems were identified, namely (1) Larger farms with livestock which wore characterized by having more land in crops, slightly bigger families, use of ox-ploughs for land preparation, and much higher per capita income (Sh 710). These farms produced about twice the food they actually required for subsistence, and sold the surplus for cash, but had serious labour problems.(2) Smaller farms without livestock, characterized by less land in crops and use of hand hoes for land preparation.They produced 14 percent less protein and 4 percent less calories than required for subsistence based on PAO norms and had a very low per capita income (Sh 170).They made up over half of the farms.Eased on these two types of farms, the study has developed alternative feasible farming systems typical to the area which satisfy family food needs throughout the year and increase family incomes based on a more reasonable work schedule for each type and utilizing family labour only.They arc developed on the following assumptions! (1) Yields per ha of the common food items equal to 80 percent of those believed to be normal for the area so that the determined area for subsistence meets full family food needs in most years. (2) Family labour remaining after meeting subsistence requirements is used as required for optimum cash-crop combinations, (j) Net family incomes are calculated based on 1977/78 crop-year prices and 80 percent of yields as found for EIDHP.The crop which gives the highest net cash return per limiting-month man-day is considered since family labour in peak months is the limiting factor to increased production.For smaller farms without livestock, a cash crop combination of 0.8 ha of sorghum/groundnuts and 0.8 ha of late-planted cotton is suggested.This would give these farms a total net family income of Sh 1,590 or a per capita income of Sh 240, which is about one-third higher than present incomes.However, by hiring ox-ploughing services for lend preparation while school holidays for children staying at home were made to coincide with the critical work peak of weeding,farmers could improve their farming system by growing 1.9 ha of □orghuE/groundnuts and 0.8 ha of late-planted cotton.This system would triple their net family income to Sh 3,120 or a per capita income of Sh 470.For larger farms with livestock, the optimum cash crop combination includes 3.1 ha of sorghum/groundnuts intercrop, 0.8 ha of late-planted cotton, and 0.6 ha of paddy, from which these farms likely would realize a total net family income of Sh 5,630 or a per capita income of Sh 790.This is about 10 percent higher than present,excluding returns from livestock. It is concluded therefore that if the aim is to increase farmer’s income, the crop which gives the highest net cash return per limiting-month man-day after meeting subsistence requirements,namely sorghum/groundnuts intercrop, should be encouraged.From the Government point of view, (a) school holiday schedules for children staying at home should be made to coincide with the critical work peak of weeding, and (b) an increase by 35 percent over prices used in the systems analyses for cotton, while keeping those of other crops and inputs unchanged, would make cotton more profitable and increase the cash benefit/cost ratio to 3:1 to warrant the risk and costs of using fertilizers and insecticides.If producer prices of other crops and inputs increase simultaneously with -those of cotton, farmers will always be tempted to grow the most profitable crop relative to cotton. Research on cotton improvement should be considered not only for specified cotton operations but in relation to all crops of thesystems, given the resources on typical individual farm units.
A parking systems analysis of factors that affect area and induction of cotton: A case study in Shinyanga regeon, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1980) Kajumulo, D .A .R
This study describes factors that affect area and production of cotton as part of the overall farming system for smallholders in Shinyanga Region, Tanzania.It involves as description of the characteristics of the existing farming systems and assessment of the production efficiency of the cotton producer. Based on farmer’s resources, priorities and production decision, plans to improve cotton production are studied simultaneously with the other crops in the systems and desirable improvements are suggested./ Primary data were collected from 50 randomly-selected farmers in the area for the 1976/77 and 1577/78 crop seasons.Direct programme planning was used to determine optimum resource allocation.Relations between specified variables were tested by means of Chi-square and correlation analyses. Two major types of farming systems were identified, namely (1) Larger farms with livestock which wore characterized by having more land in crops, slightly bigger families, use of ox-ploughs for land preparation, and much higher per capita income (Sh 710).These farms produced about twice the food they actually required for subsistence, and sold the surplus for cash, but had serious labour problems.(2) Smaller farms without livestock, characterized by less land in crops and use of hand hoes for land preparation.They produced 14 percent less protein and 4 percent less calories than required for subsistence based on PAO norms and had a very low per capita income (Sh 170).They made up over half of the farms. Based on these two types of farms, the study has developed feasible farming systems typical to the area which satisfy family food needs throughout the year and increase family incomes based on a more reasonable work schedule for each type and utilizing family labour only.They arc developed on the following assumptions!(1)Yields per ha of the common food items equal to 80 percent of those believed to be normal for the area so that the determined area for subsistence meets full family food needs in most years.(2) Family labour remaining after meeting subsistence requirements is used as required for optimum cash-crop combinations, (j) Net family incomes are calculated based on 1977/78 crop-year prices and 80 percent of yields as found for EIDHP. The crop which gives the highest net cash return per limiting-month man-day is considered since family labour in peak months is the limiting factor to increased production. For smaller farms without livestock, a cash crop combination of 0.8 ha of sorghum/groundnuts and 0.8 ha of late-planted cotton is suggested. This would give these farms a total net family income of Sh 1,590 or a per capita income of Sh 240, which is about one-third higher than present incomes. However, by hiring ox-ploughing services for lend preparation while school holidays for children staying at home were made to coincide with the critical work peak of weeding, fanners could improve their farming system by growing 1.9 ha of sorghum/groundnuts and 0.8 ha of late-planted cotton.This system would triple their net family income to Sh 3,120 or a per capita income of Sh 470. For larger farms with livestock, the optimum cash crop combination includes 3.1 ha of sorghum/groundnuts intercrop, 0.8 ha of late- planted cotton, and 0.6 ha of paddy, from which these farms likely would realize a total net family income of Sh 5,630 or a per capita income of Sh 790. This is about 10 percent higher than present, excluding returns from livestock. It is concluded therefore that if the aim is to increase farmer’s income, the crop which gives the highest net cash return per limiting month man-day after meeting subsistence requirements, namely sorghum/groundnuts intercrop, should be encouraged. From the Government point of view, (a) school holiday schedules for children staying at home should be made to coincide with the critical work peak of weeding, and (b) an increase by 35 percent over prices used in the systems analyses for cotton, while keeping those of other crops and inputs unchanged, would make cotton more profitable and increase the cash benefit/cost ratio to 3:1 to warrant the risk and costs of using fertilizers and insecticides. If producer prices of other crops and inputs increase simultaneously with -those of cotton, farmers will always be tempted to grow the most profitable crop relative to cotton. Research on cotton improvement should be considered not only for specified cotton operations but in relation to all crops of the systems, given the resources on typical individual farm units.
A socio economic analysts of modern irrigation projects under small -scale farming: a case study of the lower MCSPI Irrigation Project in Kilimanjaro Region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1993) Orota Germana Chanuo Laurent
This study analyses the socio-economic aspects of the Lower Moshi Irrigation Project in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. Financial and economic analyses are performed to determine if th® investment is a justifiable us® of the scarce resources available in Tanzania for investment. Survey results show that the project is doing well th average yields per ba of 6.5 tons for paddy and 2.5 tons for maize. A benefit-cost ratio of 2.5, net present worth of shs 614 million and internal rate of return of over 50 percent is obtained from the financial analysis •.•.’hen. costs and benefits are discounted at 18 percent. Results from economic analysis show a benefit-cost ratio of 2.3, a net present worth of shs 1028 million, and an internal rate of return of 49.25 percent when a 12 percent discount factor is used. Both the financial and economic analyses therefore, judge the project very profitable to the farmer and the economy as a whole. This study also attempts to evaluate the impact of the project on employment, cropping patterns, yield levels of principal, crops, farm income and land values. It is revealed that, the provision of irrigation facility has increased labour employment in the study area. Impacts of the project on cropping patterns, yield levels, farm income and land values show positive results when compared to the same in the non-project area. This study also .looks into the problems that hinder •project dev:-’.oniunnt arid -expansion. These .include problems of drought; high unit rater requirements: illegal use of water outside the project area and institutional problems such as those of farmers’ ignorance of the farming operations under modern irrigation. The following are the recommendations: 1. There is a need to improve the knowledge about modern irrigation practices at the farmer’s level. 2. .Water User Groups should be separated from other political and administrative bodies in the project area : 3. There is a need to look for alternative •.-.•ays of increasing water supply in project area during drought years and also solve the water shortage problem. A example is that of using boreholes to increase water supply. At present there are boreholes for this purpose in the project area. only few boreholes for this purpose in the project area.
A survey study on freshwater fish farming in Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1992) Bjorneseth Ronald
In a literature review, the national status of aquaculture in Tanzania is discussed. Through own investigations, the status of freshwater fish farming is investigated in more detail. A questionnaire study, concerning fish farming practices, fish production and socio economic aspects, has been conducted. A total of 30 fish farmers from the regions Mbeya, Arusha and Ruvuma were interviewed. A market investigation and harvesting of a small number of ponds were also conducted. Despite the efforts made in the 1950’s and 60’s in introducing fish farming to Tanzania, aquaculture has not developed to any extent. The total aquaculture production have increased the last years, but was in 1990 estimated to be only 375 t. There is a great demand for fish in Tanzania, and there are areas well suited for fish farming activity. The dominating aquaculture practice, is semi-intensive freshwater farming of tilapia in ponds, and Oreochromis niloticus is the most common species used. Common pond size is 150-500m2. The ponds are fertilized with manure, and as supplementary feeding, maize bran, leaves and kitchen leftover are common. Most common is to harvest the ponds once a year without totally drainage. Intermediate harvests between the main harvests are practised. In this study, an average productivity in the ponds of 1400 kg/ha/year was found. The generally low production can be explained by unproper drainage of the ponds, little or no fertilizing and feeding, and lack of seine nets, which results in overcrowded ponds and stunted fish. Most of the people having fish ponds, are small-scale farmers. The fish produced is mainly for own consumption. For about half of the farmers interviewed, it is also a source of income. Among the main constraints to a fish farming development in Tanzania, is: low priority given to aquaculture by the government, unproper extension service due to lack of transport and extension workers trained in fish farming, lack of trained personnel for education and research, and lack of quality fish seed. Strategies for a aquaculture development are discussed for Sub-Saharan African countries in general, and some recommendations for Tanzania are given. ii Sammendrag I en litteraturdel er det sett pA status nAr det gjelder akvakultur i Tanzania. Gjennom egne undersokelser, er fiskeoppdrett i ferskvann studert mer i detalj. En sporreundersokelse som omhandlet bAde driftsmAter, produksjon og sosiookonomiske aspekt, ble foretatt. Totalt 30 fiskeoppdrettere fra regionene Mbeya, Arusha og Ruvuma, ble intervjuet. En markedsundersokelse and hosting av et mindre antall dammer ble ogsA foretatt. Til tross for forsokene som ble gjort i 1950 og -60 Arene pA A introdusere fiskeoppdrett til Tanzania, har det ikke funnet sted noen betydelig utvikling innen akvakultur. Den totaJe produksjonen fra akvakultur har okt de senere Ar, men var dog bare pA 375 tonn i 1990. Det er stort behov for fisk i Tanzania, og det finnes omrAder som er vel egnet for fiskeoppdrett. Semi-intensivt oppdrett av tilapia i dammer er den dominerende oppdrettsformen. Den vanligste arten er Oreochromis niloticus. Vanlig damstorrelse er 150-500m2. Dammene er vanligvis gjodslet med husdyrgjodsel, og maiskli, husholdningsavfall og blader brukes som tilleggs fdring. Dammene hostes vanligvis en gang i Aret, og de hostes vanligvis uten A torrlegges. Noe fisk hostes ogsA mellom hver hovedhosting. Den gjennomsnittlige produktiviteten i dammene ble i denne undersokelsen funnet til A vaere 1400 kg/ha/Ar. Den generelt lave produksjonen kan forklares med utilfredsstillende torrlegging av dammene, liten eller ingen gjodsling/foring, og mangel pA noter til A hoste dammene med. Dette resulterer i dArlig vekst hos fisken, og dammer med altfor hoy fisketetthet. De fleste som har fiskedammer, er smAbonder som produserer fisk til eget konsum i familien. Halvparten av de som ble intervjuet hadde i tillegg inntekter fra fiskedammene. Lav prioritet fra myndighetenes side, utilfredsstillende veiledningsapparat pga. mangel pA transportmidler og trenet personell innen fiskeoppdrett, mangel pA utdannede folk til forskning og undervisning, og dArlig tilgjengelighet pA yngel av god kvalitet, er alle faktorer som hindrer utviklingen av fiskeoppdrett i Tanzania. Hvilke strategier som bor folges i en utviklingen av akvakultur er diskutert for afrikanske land generelt. Til slutt er det gitt noen anbefalinger som gjelder Tanzania.
Academic staff job embeddedness: model dimensionality and validation in Tanzania’s universities
(Granthaalayah, 2018-09-21) Hokororo, Silver J.; Kitindi, Ernest; Michael, Francis
Universities in Tanzania as many others in Africa and the globe are faced with the challenge of retaining their academic staff. This study examined the dimensionality and generalization of Job Embeddedness Theory, a promising perspective for understanding employee retention, in the context of academic staff in Tanzania’s universities. A survey of 314 members of academic staff from 2 Public Universities and 3 Private Universities was conducted, and Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Split Sample Cross Validation were used in determining the appropriate dimensionality and generalizability of Job Embeddedness Model in the context of study, respectively. Results indicated that that job embeddedness in the context of academic staff in Tanzania’s universities is a seven factors model. The results also indicate that seven variables out of 30 in the model were not stable, hence compromising generalizability of the model in the context of the study. It was recommended that, since Job Embeddedness Theory is a developing perspective, the volatile variables should be considered for revision or deletion in the future studies, before a seven-factor Job Embeddedness model is accepted for generalizability to larger population of academic members of staff in Tanzania’s Universities.
Access to niche markets and efficiency of smallholder broiler producers in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Mbwana, M.
This study was conducted to examine the possibilities of integrating smallholder broiler producers into the niche market supply chains for improving their efficiency and incomes. Specifically the study: i) characterize the broiler supply chains with particular emphasis on requirements of participating in the niche market supply chain; ii) analyse technical and cost efficiency of broiler producers; iii) compare the level of benefits realized by broiler producers supplying to niche and conventional retail market outlets; and iv) and analyse the farmers‟ preferential choice decision of supplying to niche markets. Data were collected using checklists and questionnaires where descriptive statistics, stochastic production and cost functions, discounted cash flow and preferential choice analyses were used to analyse the data. The results showed that the structure of supply chain is described in terms of live bird and dressed bird supply channels, where minimum level of coordination existed in both chains. The estimated farm level technical efficiency ranged from 37% to 97% with a mean technical efficiency of 74%. Day old chicks, flock-size and feed intake were critical variables that affected farmers output at 1 percent and 5 percent respectively. Participation by farmers in niche markets significantly influenced technical efficiency and increased output (P<0.01). Farmers were cost inefficient (P<0.05), high cost of feeds, day-old chicks and low price of broiler chicken in the output market are principal causes of the inefficiency. Average return on investment for the farmers supplying to niche markets was significantly (P < 0.01) higher than that of farmers supplying to conventional broiler markets. The net present value (Tshs 5 036 179), benefit cost ratio (1.22) and internal rate of return (46%) for farmers selling to niche markets were higher than accordingly, Tshs 793 938; 1.09; and 30% for farmers selling into conventional broiler markets. Farmers‟ perceptions regarding niche markets indicated that they had positive attitude to participate in these markets. To increase efficiency and access to niche markets, the study recommends that: policy and institutional supports that would increase investment and innovation in the broiler supply chain deserves priority for enhancing chain‟s efficiency, productivity and income.
An accounting method-based cost-benefit analysis of conformity to certified organic standards for spices in Tanzania
(Copenhagen 2008 Danish Institute for International Studies, DIIS, 2008) Akyoo, A.; Lazaro, E.
Certified organic farming has emerged as a market channel providing participating African small- holders with access to high value markets in the EU. The benefits may include not only a guaranteed produce market, but also premium prices, and higher net revenues. Where training in organic farming techniques is provided there may be also benefits in terms of increased yield. The major cost challenges are those for certification, although in many cases donor support to export- ers is available to cover these. This study quantifies the costs and benefits of complying with the certified organic standard for members of black pepper and chilli contract farming schemes in two districts in Tanzania. It is based on survey data from 2006-07 based on samples of scheme members and control groups. In both cases none of the potential benefit listed above were realized. This is the result of absent price premiums and, in the case of at least one scheme, wider contract failure. Adoption of re- commended organic practices by members of the schemes was also low. Learning from more successful schemes, recruitment of larger and better organized exporters and design of more effective contracts are some of the changes recommended for future schemes in Tanzania.
Achieving Resilience in Downstream Agri-Food Systems
(Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa, 2021) Traub, Lulama Ndibongo; Sihlobo, Wandile; Mabaya, Edward; Jayne, Thomas; Matthey, Holger; Mabuza, Zodwa Florence; Kirimi, Lilian; Mpenda, Zena; Masila, Gerald; Kibaara, Betty
Adaptive adoption of rainwater storage systems by farmers
(Sokoine Universitry of Agriculture, 2008) Mihayo, Denis. G
Water is vital for every human community and is essential resource for economic development, agricultural productivity, industrial growth and above all human well- being. Availability of clean, safe and secure water source will always be a major concern for human populations. Access to adequate fresh water is limited, yet crucial for the survival of the inhabitants. Rainwater harvesting and storage appears to be an alternative for supplying water in the face of increasing water scarcity and escalating water demand in Makanya. The main objective of this study was to assess the adaptive adoption of rainwater storage systems by farmers. The study was done in some villages at Makanya ward. The study objectives were: (1) to determine factors influenced adaptive adoption of rainwater storage systems to farmers (ii) to assess adaptive adoption of rainwater storage systems by farmers and (iii) to find out reasons for adaptation of rainwater storage. Sixty seven households were surveyed. Purposive sampling was used to select villages for data collection and simple random sampling was employed in selecting adopters of rainwater storage systems in the study area. The data were coded and analyzed. Data analysis entailed descriptive statistics including frequencies, cross tabulation and chi-square tests. A logit model was used to assess objective of this study. Results revealed that major factors influenced farmers’ adaptation were water problems to adopters, education, sex, income and household size. It was revealed again that income, technological awareness and knowledge on technology have significantly influenced the adaptation of rainwater storage systems (p<0.05). This suggests that the water problems and income level of farmers have facilitated the adaptation of rainwater storage system by farmers. Therefore, it recommended that farmers should be given an opportunityiii to participate and decide to their needs rather than being required to accept what is not of their interest.
Adaptive techniques for Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert equation with magnetostriction
(Elsevier, 2005-08-25) Baˇnas∗, L’ubomír
In this paper we propose a time–space adaptive method for micromagnetic problems with magnetostriction. The considered model consists of coupled Maxwell’s, Landau–Lifshitz–Gilbert (LLG) and elastodynamic equations. The time discretization of Maxwell’s equations and the elastodynamic equation is done by backward Euler method, the space discretization is based on Whitney edge elements and linear finite elements, respectively. The fully discrete LLG equation reduces to an ordinary differential equation, which is solved by an explicit method, that conserves the norm of the magnetization.
Adoption and impact of dairy and irrigated rice technologies on poverty alleviation in Dodoma, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 2003) Kisusu, Robert Wankanya
This study was conducted in Mvumi and Bahi, Dodoma Rural District, Tanzania. The general objective of the study was to assess adoption and impact of improved dairy and irrigated rice production on poverty alleviation. The specific objectives were to assess adoption and determine factors influencing adoption of improved dairy and irrigated rice technologies, to assess the impact and recommend policies, which will promote dairy and irrigated rice production for poverty reduction. The study comprised a random sample of 164 project farmers and 46 non- project farmers for Mvumi. For Bahi village it comprised of 164 project farmers and 164 non-project farmers. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression and paired sample T-test. Factors that significantly (P<0.01) influenced adoption of improved dairy technologies were age of household head, number of pupils in the household, type of cattle breed owned before the project and daily milk consumption. On the other hand, factors that significantly (P<0.01) influenced adoption of improved irrigated rice technologies were household working days during the rainy season, rice yield before introduction of improved irrigated rice technologies, number of pupils in the household and amount of irrigation water. The results of impact assessment indicated that average annual per capita income and purchasing power p arity i ncreased by 432% and 567% respectively after improved dairy Project. With regard to improved rice production, average annual per capita income and purchasing power parity increased by 20% and 25% respectively after the Project. Implementation of Mvumi dairy project increased calories intake and milk consumption by 15% and 206% respectively while implementation of Bahi rice project increased calories intake by 4%.iii Furthermore, improved dairy project and irrigated rice project increased significantly (P <0.01) material assets and financial ability to meet various social services after introduction of improved dairy cattle and irrigated rice production. The major conclusion is that both projects have significantly contributed to poverty alleviation in the study area. Therefore, it is recommended that similar development projects be promoted in other rural areas but attempts be made to make sure they target the poor.
Adoption and impact of improved agricultural technologies in developing countries: the case of Imazapyr-resistant maize in Western Kenya
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Mignouna, Djana Babatima
Declining productivity of food crops in developing countries is associated with several factors including poor adoption of improved technologies against pests and parasites destroying crops with developmental implications on food insecurity and poverty. This study has been undertaken to contribute to the understanding of farm-level adoption dynamics and economic impacts of agricultural technologies. This study was done using a case of imazapyr-resistant maize technology for combating noxious Striga weed which has devastating effects on maize production in western Kenya. A cross sectional survey that included randomly selected samples of 169 adopters and 431 non-adopters. The relevant data were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics, stochastic production frontier and tobit regression models. The net present value (US $21 680 402), benefit-cost ratio (4.77) and net benefits per capita (US $41 063) for imazapyr-resistant maize enterprise were attractive. However, its adoption rate was low, whereby about 28% of the surveyed households adopted the technology. The results from tobit model estimation indicate that farming experience, education of the household head, gap between maize production and consumption, farmer’s risk-taking, number of extension visits, lack of seeds, membership to social groups and imazapyr- resistant maize’s effective dissemination pathway were found to be significant (P<0.05) in influencing the adoption decision. The results of impact assessment indicated that its adoption increased significantly (P<0.01) the frontier maize output. Imazapyr-resistant maize had succeeded in reducing Striga seed-bank hence significantly (P<0.05) raising productivity from 2.2 ton/ha (non- imazapyr-resistant maize) to 2.8 ton/ha (imazapyr- resistant maize) with significant returns to land (US $173/hectare) and labour (US $8/man-day).ii Two main conclusions can be drawn from this study. First and foremost, is that the use of imazapyr-resistant maize is a promising option for farmers since this technology has been shown to be profitable compared with other maize varieties and, secondly, it has the potential to impact positively on poverty reduction in western Kenya. Therefore, its adoption deserves attention from policy makers who should: (a) Initiate new awareness campaign, improve the seed supply chain in order to broaden its adoption and (b) provide significant positive public investment for technology transfer to improve its effectiveness and efficiency.
Adoption and impact of soil and water conservation on current food insecurity and vulnerability of farming households in Eastern Ethiopia
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2019) Haile, M. S.
Understanding the livelihoods related impacts of soil and water conservation and decision behaviours of smallholder farmers would be a significant step toward improving environmental conditions, while ensuring sustainable and increased agricultural production. Hence, the objectives of this study include: analysis of households‟ food insecurity and vulnerability to food insecurity and its influencing factors; assessment of factors affecting choice decision of soil and water conservation structure, and evaluation of impact of soil and water conservation adoption on food insecurity and related vulnerability outcomes of farming households. A multi-stage stratified sampling procedure was used to identify a sample of 408 sample households (200 adopters and 208 non- adopters) and also 790 plot-level observations from three districts in eastern Ethiopia. The study used both primary and secondary data. To address the research objectives, the study used descriptive statistics and various econometric models. The logit model results show that food insecurity of farm households was significantly influenced by age of household head, family size in adult equivalent, use of irrigation, adoption of soil and water conservation, and coping strategies. The Three-step Feasible Generalized Least Squares estimation results indicate that age of household head and family size were found to have a negative and significant influence on expected food consumption expenditure. Furthermore, using improved seed, total cultivated land, using soil and water conservation, received credit were significant predictors with positive influence on expected food consumption expenditure. Based on the intensity of their vulnerability, households were grouped as chronic food insecure (24.27 %), transient food insecure (11.77 %), highly vulnerable-food secure (18.38 %), and low vulnerable-food secure (45.59 %). Moreover, the study indicated that 54.01 % of households are vulnerable to food insecurity, which is by higher than the current incidence of food insecurity (36.02 %). The multivariate probit estimation results indicated that out of hypothesized explanatory variables education level, family size income, contact with development agent and erosion problem, livestock ownership, age and sex of household head, number of plots, off-farm activity and received credit were significant factors for farm-level adoption of stone bund, soil bund and bench terracing conservation technologies. Endogenous switching regressions and propensity score matching result indicated that, adoption of soil and water conservation not only positively impacts the per capita food consumption expenditure and net crop value, but also significantly reduced the probability of farmers being food insecure, vulnerability to food insecurity, as well as being transient and chronically food insecure.
Adoption and impact of treadle pump on farm productivity: A case of Mbarali District, Mbeya Region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2006) Nassoro, Hussein Nzao
This study was undertaken with a view of assessing factors determining adoption of treadle pump and how it impacts farm productivity in Mbarali district, Mbeya region. The specific objectives were: to identify factors determining adoption of treadle pump; analysing financial and economic performance; examining relationship between treadle pump adoption and farm productivity; determining whether treadle pump complements adoption of other improved technologies and finally to make suggestions on sustainable usage and dissemination of the treadle pump. Nature of the study was descriptive and exploratory involving both primary and secondary data. Prior to data collection, rapid rural survey was conducted. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were employed to get adopters and non-adopter of treadle pump. The study employed Probit model, Cobb- Douglass production function, Chi-square and gross margin as analytical tools for addressing the specific objectives. Analytical results showed that, household size and presence of male members in a household have a positive influence on adoption of treadle pump. Such an observation reflects labour intensity of the treadle pump where the technology is more suited to man. On the other hand increased education, age and income reduce the chances of adoption. At farm level, treadle pump contributes to farm productivity and has positive gross margin. Results indicated that, adoption of treadle pump has complemented adoption of insecticide used at farm level. From the survey, treadle pump is associated with vegetable grown year round and agro-pastoral fanning system. From the study findings it is recommend that, manufacturing of the treadle pump be improved to avoid gender biasness associated with the present model, which is labour intensive. Current distribution channel should be improved to insure that, product reach the end users. The project should be replicated to other areas with similar conditions and neediii of addressing poverty. Policy makers should recognize and orient resources towards the technology as one with potentials of improving crop production and alleviating poverty among the smallholder farmers in Tanzania.
Adoption of a New Maize and Production Efficiency in Western Kenya
(2010-09) Mignouna, D.B; Mutabazi, k; Senkondo, E.M; Manyong, V.M.
Declining yields of maize as a result of Striga infestation has necessitated a new technology known as Imazapyr-resistant maize (IRM) to contain the problem. As a result, research and development initiatives with substantial participation of the private sector to transfer this new technology to farmers have been made in western Kenya. This study therefore assesses the adoption of IRM variety and efficiency levels of farmers in western Kenya. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select a total of 600 households from Nyanza and Western provinces for this study. Tobit model and stochastic production frontier analysis were the analytical methods. Results show that age, education, maize production gap, risk, contact with extension agents, lack of seeds, membership in social group, effective pathway for IRM dissemination and compatibility of the technology are the variables that were found to be significant (P<0.05) in shaping the decisions of households on whether to adopt or not. The study reveals that the mean technical efficiency of maize production of sampled farmers is 70% indicating some inefficiencies of maize production in western Kenya. Also, adoption of IRM significantly increased frontier maize output (P<0.01); household size decreased inefficiency along with farm size. It was recommended that efforts to increase adoption of IRM for enhanced farm efficiency should focus on farmers’ education, farming experience and access to information and farm basic inputs.
Adoption of a new maize and production efficiency in western Kenya
(2010-09) Mignouna, D.B; Mutabazi, K; Senkondo, E.M; Manyong, V.M
Declining yields of maize as a result of Striga infestation has necessitated a new technology known as Imazapyr-resistant maize (IRM) to contain the problem. As a result, research and development initiatives with substantial participation of the private sector to transfer this new technology to farmers have been made in western Kenya. This study therefore assesses the adoption of IRM variety and efficiency levels of farmers in western Kenya. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select a total of 600 households from Nyanza and Western provinces for this study. Tobit model and stochastic production frontier analysis were the analytical methods. Results show that age, education, maize production gap, risk, contact with extension agents, lack of seeds, membership in social group, effective pathway for IRM dissemination and compatibility of the technology are the variables that were found to be significant (P<0.05) in shaping the decisions of households on whether to adopt or not. The study reveals that the mean technical efficiency of maize production of sampled farmers is 70% indicating some inefficiencies of maize production in western Kenya. Also, adoption of IRM significantly increased frontier maize output (P<0.01); household size decreased inefficiency along with farm size. It was recommended that efforts to increase adoption of IRM for enhanced farm efficiency should focus on farmers’ education, farming experience and access to information and farm basic inputs
Adoption of high tunnels for tomato production in North East District, Botswana
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Badimo, D.
High tunnel technology has been heralded as the panacea to propel medium and small scale tomato production due to high levels of efficiency and the potential to support sustainable socio-economic development in the face of current daunting challenges and opportunities to which farmers respond. However, despite the comparative advantages offered by the technology, its adoption by farmers has been far less than satisfactory. A study was therefore carried out to investigate constraints and determinants of high tunnels adoption for tomato production in the North East District of Botswana. In addition, evaluation of profitability of the high tunnels technology in the study area was carried out. A questionnaire was used to elicit primary information from 119 horticultural farmers in the district. The study employed both descriptive statistics and binary probit regression model to analyze determinants of adoption of the high tunnels for tomato production. From the study, prohibitive cost of high tunnels, inadequate knowledge on high tunnels, inadequate capital and markets were identified as major constraints that hinder high tunnels adoption. The adoption of high tunnels was found to be positively influenced by years of education, access to extension and farm size, but negatively influenced by farmer’s experience. The net profit for high tunnels was approximately BWP 388 783.97 (U$D 37712.05) compared to BWP 24 088.72 (U$D 2336.61) for open field in the 2015/16 production period. The study recommends tunnel designers to consider constructing the structure using local materials to cut down the startup cost. Furthermore, extension service organizations should be strengthened and the services and the extension system be improved to make their innovations relevant and up to date.
Adoption of high tunnels for tomato production in North East District, Botswana
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Badimo, D.
High tunnel technology has been heralded as the panacea to propel medium and small scale tomato production due to high levels of efficiency and the potential to support sustainable socio-economic development in the face of current daunting challenges and opportunities to which farmers respond. However, despite the comparative advantages offered by the technology, its adoption by farmers has been far less than satisfactory. A study was therefore carried out to investigate constraints and determinants of high tunnels adoption for tomato production in the North East District of Botswana. In addition, evaluation of profitability of the high tunnels technology in the study area was carried out. A questionnaire was used to elicit primary information from 119 horticultural farmers in the district. The study employed both descriptive statistics and binary probit regression model to analyze determinants of adoption of the high tunnels for tomato production. From the study, prohibitive cost of high tunnels, inadequate knowledge on high tunnels, inadequate capital and markets were identified as major constraints that hinder high tunnels adoption. The adoption of high tunnels was found to be positively influenced by years of education, access to extension and farm size, but negatively influenced by farmer’s experience. The net profit for high tunnels was approximately BWP 388 783.97 (U$D 37712.05) compared to BWP 24 088.72 (U$D 2336.61) for open field in the 2015/16 production period. The study recommends tunnel designers to consider constructing the structure using local materials to cut down the startup cost. Furthermore, extension service organizations should be strengthened and the services and the extension system be improved to make their innovations relevant and up to date.
Adoption of high tunnels for tomato production in North East District, Botswana
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Badimo, D.
High tunnel technology has been heralded as the panacea to propel medium and small scale tomato production due to high levels of efficiency and the potential to support sustainable socio-economic development in the face of current daunting challenges and opportunities to which farmers respond. However, despite the comparative advantages offered by the technology, its adoption by farmers has been far less than satisfactory. A study was therefore carried out to investigate constraints and determinants of high tunnels adoption for tomato production in the North East District of Botswana. In addition, evaluation of profitability of the high tunnels technology in the study area was carried out. A questionnaire was used to elicit primary information from 119 horticultural farmers in the district. The study employed both descriptive statistics and binary probit regression model to analyze determinants of adoption of the high tunnels for tomato production. From the study, prohibitive cost of high tunnels, inadequate knowledge on high tunnels, inadequate capital and markets were identified as major constraints that hinder high tunnels adoption. The adoption of high tunnels was found to be positively influenced by years of education, access to extension and farm size, but negatively influenced by farmer’s experience. The net profit for high tunnels was approximately BWP 388 783.97 (U$D 37712.05) compared to BWP 24 088.72 (U$D 2336.61) for open field in the 2015/16 production period. The study recommends tunnel designers to consider constructing the structure using local materials to cut down the startup cost. Furthermore, extension service organizations should be strengthened and the services and the extension system be improved to make their innovations relevant and up to date.
Adoption of improved cashewnut production technologies by smallholder farmer in Mtvvara district, Tanzania
(SOKOINE UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE., 2013) Magani,S. F
The economy of Mtwara District heavily depends on cashew nut production. However, low production threatens the survival of more than 75% of the people who depend on cashew and also the economy of the district. Many technologies were developed by researchers and were made available to the farming communities to increase productivity. Technical backstopping from research was also provided from time to time to equip key stakeholders with appropriate knowledge and skills necessary to scale up cashewnutproduction.Despite those efforts, adoption of improved cashew technologies has not improved.The study was conducted to investigate the internal and external factors influencing adoption of improved cashew technologies among 200 smallholder farmers in 14 villages in Mtwara District.Binary logistic regression analysis was adopted to analyze the factors affecting adoption of improved cashew technologies. From the analysis it was found that, access to information, farm size, number of active labour in the household and years of schooling had significantly affected adoption of improved cashew technologies at (p<0.05). From this study, it was found that more than 50% of the improved cashew technologies developed by Naliendele Agricultural Research Institute (NARI) have reached cashew growing areas and about 43% of the respondents in the study area belonged to the adopter category and 57% were non-adopters of improved cashew technologies. Theories guiding this study indicated that, the departure from low productivity to attain high productivity was through adoption of science-based technologies that eventually will enable farmers to produce at economies of scale.ln this context knowledge and technologies available in cashew, issues of acquisition of improved cashew materials and crop husbandry, aspects of insect pests and diseases control, methods of technology dissemination are highlighted.Additionally, challenges and opportunities lacing cashew industry are discussed and ways forward suggested. Therefore, this dissertation presents results of the findings and explores further options to improve uptake of cashew technologies by resource-poor farmers.

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