College of Agriculture

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A comparative analysis of levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets to gas extraction operations: evidence from Mtwara rural district, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Community Development, 2023-05-07) Musoma, Beston M.; Nyanda, Suzana S.; Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Massawe, Fatihiya A.
Extractive investments adversely affect local communities across the globe. Tanzania experiences new gas extraction operations (GEO) but with scanty information on how they influence the levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets among rural communities. As such, there is a need to empirically understand wplaces are more vulnerable than others so that livelihood enhancement actions can be performed following gas extraction operations. This article examined the levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets among communities residing near and distant villages to gas extractive fields and processing plants. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and 260 respondents were sampled proportionally from village registers. The sample was complemented with 15 key informant Interviews (KII) and four focus group discussions (FGDs). A comparative analysis was performed using Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI). The results revealed that distant villages had the highest level of food accessibility and water accessibility. Also, neighbouring villages have the highest level of vulnerability on land ownership. Likewise, nearby villages had a moderate level of exposure to livelihood strategies and gas extraction activities. To conclude, distant villages had a higher level of vulnerability to food access, water access, and socio-demographic profile components. Whereas nearby villages had the highest level of vulnerability on land ownership and gas extraction operation components. Therefore, to lessen the food vulnerability among households, the government and donors should prioritize income generating and food security programmes among households.
A comparative analysis of levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets to gas extraction operations: evidence from Mtwara rural district, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Community Development, 2023-05-07) Musoma, Beston M.; Nyanda, Suzana S.; Muhanga, Mikidadi I.; Massawe, Fatihiya A.
Extractive investments adversely affect local communities across the globe. Tanzania experiences new gas extraction operations (GEO) but with scanty information on how they influence the levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets among rural communities. As such,there is a need to empirically understand wplaces are more vulnerable than others so that livelihood enhancement actions can be performed following gas extraction operations. This article examined the levels of vulnerability of livelihood assets among communities residing near and distant villages to gas extractive fields and processing plants. A cross-sectional research design was employed, and 260 respondents were sampled proportionally from village registers.The sample was complemented with 15 key informant Interviews (KII) and four focus group discussions (FGDs). A comparative analysis was performed using Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI). The results revealed that distant villages had the highest level of food accessibility and water accessibility. Also, neighbouring villages have the highest level of vulnerability on land ownership. Likewise, nearby villages had a moderate level of exposure to livelihood strategies and gas extraction activities. To conclude, distant villages had a higher level of vulnerability to food access, water access, and socio-demographic profile components. Whereas nearby villages had the highest level of vulnerability on land ownership and gas extraction operation components. Therefore, to lessen the food vulnerability among households, the government and donors should prioritize income generating and food security programmes among households.
A comparative analysis of RIPAT and other selected participatory rural development approaches used in Tanzania
(Mkuki na Nyota Publishers Ltd, 2023) Madaha, Rasel; Martin, Respikius; Mwakatoga, Joyce
Influenced by the African socialism philosophy of the late Julius Nyerere and the participant research practices of Marja Liisa Swantz, Tanzania is one of the pioneers of participatory action research in the world. Within the mentioned milieu, participatory approaches have become widespread. The approaches are geared at enabling rural communities to address their challenges through participatory approaches. This book chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of locally improved rural development approaches that have been developed and improved in the Tanzanian context. Using primary and secondary data from some Tanzanian rural interventions by Uluguru Mountains Agricultural Development Project (process approach) and World Vision Tanzania (ADP approach), the chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of the mentioned strategies and RIPAT (Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation) to shed some light on rural development efforts in the Tanzanian context. The process approach involves participatory endogenous processes of development that start with the recognition of the local capacities of the people. TI1e ADP (Area Development Programmes) approach is a participatory approach that seeks to induce communities with capabilities to undertake appropriate actions to accomplish economic and social progress. More recently, World Vision Tanzania (WVT) reframed the acronym ADP by calling it Tanzania Empowerment ADP Model (TEAM). RIPAT is a participatory extension approach that transfers a 'basket' of agricultural technology options, including various crops and livestock, to groups of 25 to 30 smallholder farmers in a way that allows for joint, experiential, and participatory learning. In 2017 Research, Community and Organisational Development Associates (RECODA) entered a two year contract with WVT of co-owning the approach; the agreement ended in 2019. The engagement allowed World Vision Tanzania to use the RIPAT approach in ADPs. All in all, some literature suggests that participatory approaches fail to empower people in real life situation. In this regard and drawing from the participatory theory and practice, the chapter assesses the sustainability of the approaches.
A comparative analysis of RIPAT and other selected participatory rural development approaches used in Tanzania.
(Mkuki na Nyota, 2023) Madaha, Rasel; Martin, R.; Mwakatoga, J.
Influenced by the African socialism philosophy of the late Julius Nyerere and the participant research practices of Marja Liisa Swantz, Tanzania is one of the pioneers of participatory action research in the world. Within the mentioned milieu, participatory approaches have become widespread. The approaches are geared at enabling rural communities to address their challenges through participatory approaches. This book chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of locally improved rural development approaches that have been developed and improved in the Tanzanian context. Using primary and secondary data from some Tanzanian rural interventions by Uluguru Mountains Agricultural Development Project (process approach) and World Vision Tanzania (ADP approach), the chapter focuses on a comparative analysis of the mentioned strategies and RIPAT (Rural Initiatives for Participatory Agricultural Transformation) to shed some light on rural development efforts in the Tanzanian context. The process approach involves participatory endogenous processes of development that start with the recognition of the local capacities of the people. The ADP (Area Development Programmes) approach is a participatory approach that seeks to induce communities with capabilities to undertake appropriate actions to accomplish economic and social progress. More recently, World Vision Tanzania (WVT) reframed the acronym ADP by calling it Tanzania Empowerment ADP Model (TEAM). RIPAT is a participatory extension approach that transfers a ‘basket’ of agricultural technology options, including various crops and livestock, to groups of 25 to 30 smallholder farmers in a way that allows for joint, experiential, and participatory learning. In 2017 Research, Community and Organisational Development Associates (RECODA) entered a two year contract with WVT of co-owning the approach; the agreement ended in 2019. The engagement allowed World Vision Tanzania to use the RIPAT approach in ADPs. All in all, some literature suggests that participatory approaches fail to empower people in real life situation. In this regard and drawing from the participatory theory and practice, the chapter assesses the sustainability of the approaches.
A genetical analysis of yield and yield components in an s-parent diallel cross of spring barley
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1979) Mrimi,Geremiah A.
An 8 x 8 dlallel experiment involving parental and F2 progenies was conducted in the field at the Uyole Agricultural Centre, Mbeya, Tanzania In the 1977-78 growing season.The aim vias to obtain information on the magnitude and type of genetic variability for yield and its components, to estimate the magnitude of the various genetic components and to investigate the nature and magnitude of the correlations between yield and its components.Results indicate that additive and non«^dditive variation xvas present for all characters measured.The non-additive portion was greater than the additive portion for all characters except number of ears per plant. Dominance was found for all characters and it was the main source of non-additive variation. Average degree of dominance for the characters measured varied from partial dominance to overdominance•Epistasis was found to be small, and it was detected in the characters plant height, number of grain per ear, grain yield per plant and 1000 grain weight. Overall heterosis was found in the characters number of days to heading, plant height, ear length, grain yield per plant and 1000 grain weight. However,its magnitude and direction was4 specific to the cross.Heterosis for yield was generally associated with heterosis for the yield components, paarticularly number of ears per plantv number of grains per ear, earliness and plant height.Maternal effects were found for grain yield per plant and 1000 grain weight. Estimates of narrow sense heritability showed that aJ.l characters, except plstnt height, had values greater than 40?.'.Number of ears per plant showed the highest value (93»0fJ) while plant height had the lowest (24.3Q.High yield per plant and high 1000 grain weight were associated with dominance, while lateness and high number of grains per ear were associated with recessiveness.Correlation studies showed that the characters number of ears per plant, plant height, ear length, grain yield per plant and 1000 grain vzeight were positively intercorrelated• Number of grains per ear was negatively correlated with number of ears per plant and 1000 grain weight. Number of days to heading showed significant negative correlation with all characters except ear length and number of grains per ear.The implications of the results to barley improvement are discussed.
A monitoring study on the production performance and enteric methane emission from the dairy cows under smallholder farms in Kilimanjaro region, Tanzania
(International Journal of Animal Science and Technology, 2025-09-23) Ngesi, Anitha Carlos; Laswai, Germana Henry; Msalya, George Mutani; Lyatuu, Eliamoni Titus; Komwihangilo, Daniel Mshumbusi
A total of 54 lactating dairy cows from 20 farms in Hai District were monitored to assess production performance and methane (CH4) emission under different feeding practices and altitude zones. Of the selected farms 8 were in the highland zone and 12 in the lowland zone. In the lowland, cows were managed under zero grazing (FP1), grazing with supplementation (FP2) and extensive grazing (FP3), while all highland cows were managed under FP1. Measurements included body weight, nutrients intake, milk yield and composition and CH4 emission. Feedstuffs were also analysed for their nutritive values. The results showed that, daily dry matter intake (DMI), crude protein intake (CPI) and metabolisable energy intake (MEI) were higher (P<0.05) in cows under FP1 (11.1 kg, 1.2 kg and 117 MJ, respectively) than those in FP2 (9.8 kg, 938 g and 90 MJ) and FP3 (7.5 kg, 539 g and 45.3 MJ). Similarly, cows in the highland zone had higher (P<0.05) DMI, CPI, and MEI (11.7 kg, 1.3 kg, and 121.9 MJ) than those in the lowland zone (11.1 kg, 1.18 kg, and 117.1 MJ). Weight gain was highest (P<0.05) in FP1 (0.35 kg/d), followed by FP2 (0.21 kg/d), and lowest in FP3 (0.11 kg/d). Cows in the highland zone had significantly higher weight gain 0.46 kg/d) compared to those in the lowland zone 0.35 kg/d). Daily mean milk yield followed a similar trend, with cows under FP1 producing the highest (9.0 kg), followed by FP2 (6.8 kg) and FP3 (4.7 kg). Across zones, milk yield was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the highland (11.2 kg) than in the lowland (9.0 kg). Milk from cows under FP3 had slightly higher (P<0.05) lactose content (4.4%) than those under FP1 and FP2, while cows under FP1 produced milk with higher solids-non-fat (SNF) content (8.5%). Milk from lowland cows contained more (P<0.05) fat (4.0%), protein (3.6%), total solids (12.0%) and solids-non-fat (8.5%) than milk from highland cows. Mean gross methane emission did not differ significantly among feeding practices but was higher (P<0.05) in the highland zone (265 g/d) than the lowland zone (149.9 g/d). Methane intensity was similar (P>0.05) across feeding practices and zones. It was concluded that cows under FP1 achieved higher production performance by producing higher milk yield per unit of methane emitted compared to other feeding practices. Further research is recommended to evaluate the effects of different supplementation levels on production performance and methane emission.
A Review of options for speeding the adoption of climate smart varieties: what works and what does not work: Experiences from Tanzania
(nternational Journal of Environment, Agriculture and Biotechnology, 2022-06-08) Bilaro, Atugonza Luta; Tryphone,George M.
Given the efforts invested on addressing climate change adaptation particularly in agriculture, the adoption of climate smart varieties has not met the expectations. A number of crop varieties developed targeting drought prone areas largely remained un-adopted hence unknown to the majority of farmers or lack traits deemed special for adaptation to climate change in target areas. Variety adoption rate is highly dependent on its adaptation to particular environmental conditions including suitability to tolerate drought, salinity and acidity and ability to meet different livelihood needs such food, fodder and cash. Poor adoption emanates from lack of awareness and the volatility of the farming environment coupled with poor integration of seed business into private public partnership. Rapid adoption of climate smart varieties in Tanzania would require better policy intervention with a well-organized extension system and modifications in variety testing procedures, including the current guidelines for variety release. In this work the authors discuss some approaches that can be used to enhance the adoption of climate smart varieties in Tanzania and cite a few specific cases based on experience from Tanzania.
A study of factors affecting the adoption of Hybrid maize in Mwanga district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1998) Msuya, Catherine Phillip
Mwanga district is experiencing continuous food shortages. In spite of the food problems, farmers continue to use traditional ways of food production and have not fully adopted the available modern agricultural technologies and practices. This study was designed to investigate factors influencing the adoption of hybrid maize in Mwanga district. The specific objectives of the study were: 1) To determine the level of adoption of hybrid maize in Mwanga district 2) To identify and describe factors that affect the adoption of hybrid maize in Mwanga district. 3) To determine the innovations,relationship between farmers, institutional and environmental characteristics on one hand and the adoption of hybrid maize 4) To recommend ways which can facilitate farmers to adopt hybrid maize in Mwanga district. The study was done in two villages involving 90 farmers and one extension worker. Forty five respondents from each village were selected randomly by using a table of random numbers. Data were collected using two types of structured questionnaires: one was for the farmers who grew maize and the other for the extension worker. Field observations were also used for data collection. These data were supplemented by documents and records from agricultural offices in Mwanga district and two village extension offices. Data were analyzed at Sokoine University of Agriculture using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). In the SPSS the sub-programmes "frequencies" and "crosstabs" we used to further analyze the data. Findings show that adoption was found to be significantly associated with gender, farm size, income, cost of inputs and complexity of growing hybrid maize. Moreover, adoption of hybrid maize was affected by other factors like the presence of coffee, inter-cropping system and the de-husking quality of hybrid maize. Recommendations drawn from this study include: (a)The price of inputs which is expensive need to be addressed. This can be solved by giving farmers subsidies and credits for them to buy farm inputs. (b)Farmers should be encouraged to buy fresh supplies of hybrid maize seed every season. (c)Women should be involved in the decision making process that involve growing of hybrid maize. (d)Farmers should look for alternative arable areas to cultivate such as the lowlands of Mwanga district to offset food shortages. (e)Farmers should be encouraged to use other alternative ways of improving soil fertility such as using composit manure and increase the use of farm yard manure from cattle kraals. (f)To reduce the problem of drought, farmers should been encouraged to adopt modern agricultural practices such as agro forestry and use field water retention techniques.
A study of gender roles in the cashew nut value chain in Mkuranga district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Rwiza Veronica K.
The main objective of the study was to assess gender roles in the cashew nut value chain in Mkuranga. Data were collected along the cashew nut value chain nodes, including 80 producers (farmers), 10 processors, and 10 local traders from Kisutu and Kariakoo markets in Dar es Salaam. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the cashew nut value chain actors. Both quantitative and qualitative analysis was applied. The SPSS statistical software was used for data analysis. The results show that the key actors of cashew nut value chain include input suppliers, producers (farmers), processors, local traders and consumers who play different roles in cashew nut value chain. The study also found that cashew nut is constrained by production, processing, and marketing factors despite having a lot of opportunities at urban, regional and international markets. The roles assigned to men alone in cashew nut value chain were mainly associated with quality control, bargaining and decision making in all cashew nut value chain nodes, selling of raw nuts, selling the processed kernel, which eventually allow men to control income earned in different cashew nut value chain nodes. Hence, it lowers women’s motivation in cashew nut production and involvement in cashew nut value chain leading to lower women cashew nut production potential. The study documented limited frequency of visits of extension agents and lack of credit services to processors, it also documented cultural gender patterns that exist for access to and control over resources available in the cashew nut value chain and unequal income distribution among men and women along the cashew nut value chain nodes. The study recommends that gender equality is vital for cashew nut value chain improvement and calls for efforts from all development stakeholders in cashew nut value chain to focus on gender mainstreaming.
A study of research-extension-farmer linkage in the central zone, Tanzania
(Sokoinie University of Agriculture, 2011) Dustan, Elina
In the past agricultural research institutes have been working almost in isolation without involving other stakeholders in agricultural development. The government has restructured the ZARDIs funds in the effort to strengthen research-extension-farmer linkages. In this respect, the present study investigated the research-extension-farmer linkage based on current institutional arrangement particularly in the central zone. Three Districts namely Mpwapwa, Chamwino and Dodoma Municipality in Dodoma Region were selected for this study. The study population consisted of research staff in the zone, extension staff and farmers from the three Districts. Structured questionnaires were used in data collection. The current arrangement has created several opportunities to strengthen linkage. These are agricultural technologies developed on farmers’ fields and availability of ZARDEF and DADPs which enable stakeholders to undertake participatory activities. Reading materials, agricultural shows and on farm experiments were found to be highly effective in linking stakeholders in the dissemination of agricultural technologies. The zone has adequate number of qualified staff at all levels. Presence of ZRELO facilitates easy flow of agricultural information although the ZIELU is not so effective. The zone has conducted 40% of their experiments on farmers’ fields and a block farm of about 300 acres of grape vine has been established on farmers’ fields. The zone is still facing challenges in linkage activities. Lack of adequate and timely funding for research and extension was found to be a major problem that impairs effective planning for joint activities. The ZIELU was found to be ineffective as there were no permanent office. Cost sharing for research activities was still a problem as the Districts do not yet contribute funds for research activities. The study recommends the following: early disbursement and increasing research and extension funds, improving ZIELU and cost sharing in research and extension activities so as to strengthen the linkage.
A study of research-extension-farmer linkage in the central zone, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Dunstan, Elina
In the past agricultural research institutes have been working almost in isolation without involving other stakeholders in agricultural development. The government has restructured the ZARDIs funds in the effort to strengthen research-extension-farmer linkages. In this respect, the present study investigated the research-extension-farmer linkage based on current institutional arrangement particularly in the central zone. Three Districts namely Mpwapwa, Chamwino and Dodoma Municipality in Dodoma Region were selected for this study. The study population consisted of research staff in the zone, extension staff and fanners from the three Districts. Structured questionnaires were used in data collection. The cuirenl arrangement has created several opportunities to strengthen linkage. These are agricultural technologies developed on farmers’ fields and availability of ZARDEF and DADPs which enable stakeholders to undertake participatory activities. Reading materials, agricultural shows and on farm experiments were found to be highly effective in linking stakeholders in the dissemination of agricultural technologies. The zone has adequate number of qualified staff at all levels. Presence of ZRELO facilitates easy flow ol agricultural information although the ZIELU is not so effective. The zone has conductec 40% of their experiments on fanners’ fields and a block farm of about 300 acres of grape vine has been established on farmers’ fields. The zone is still facing challenges in linkage activities. Lack of adequate and timely funding for research and extension was found to be a major problem that impairs effective planning for joint activities. The ZIELU was foum to be ineffective as there were no permanent office. Cost sharing for research activitie was still a problem as the Districts do not yet contribute funds for research activities. Th study recommends the following: early disbursement and increasing research an extension funds, improving ZIELU and cost sharing in research and extension activities s as to strengthen the linkage.
A study of the factors influencing offtake and marketing of milk and milk products around Dodoma town
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1993) Araudoba Chigunje Nicanory Harun
This work was carried out in Dodoma Urban district to study the milk production situation and the existing milk utilization options in the areas surrounding Dodoma town in central Tanzania. The study was carried out by the use of a questionnaire, observations and direct recording. Fifty producer households and 61 non - producer households were interviewed. In addition, a total of 20 batches of milk produced by 20 households were evaluated for fat recovery efficiency using traditional churning methods. The results showed that there were on average 33 head of cattle per household. Cattle demography composed of 46% cows, of which 21 % were in milk; 15 % heifers, 21% males and 24 % calves. The calving rate was less than 50%. The lactation length was on average 9.72 ± 2.34 months with a coefficient of variation of 24%. were 17.6% and 3.8% Mortality rates for calves and adult cattle respectively. On average 70 % of the cows produced milk in the range of 0.25 - 0.50 1 of milk per day, while the rest produced above 0.50 to 2.00 1 per day. Watering of animals was done once per day in 94 % of the herds and for the rest it was done twice per day. Grazing time was on average 7.38h for herds that grazed continuously during the day and 6.48h for herds that had partial rest in kraals during the day. Producer households utilized 43.5 X, 32.0 X and 23.4X of the consumption milk and for sales consumers obtained direct processing, household Non respectively. milk through purchases. producer of the 61 non-producer households, 57 % obtained milk within the village, 28.6 % between 2 and 10 km and 14 % from more than 10 km. Consuming households living far away from the producers were supplied with milk through bicycle-boys as intermediaries. Milk price which ranged between TSh.26.60 and TSh.120.00 per litre of milk was positively correlated (r = 0.68 ) to distance from the source. For producer households, the amount of milk sold was significantly dependent (P< milk 0.001) on total production per household per day. Household consumption and household processing decreased the amount of milk sold significantly (P<0.001). Family size was positively and significantly (P< 0.05) correlated to herd size, milk output and processing with daily coefficients of correlations of 0.69, 0.66 and 0.66 respectively. Only fermented milk, butter and ghee were found to be produced with buttermilk as a by - product in the fat recovery process. The capacity of gourds that were used in churning sour milk ranged between 4.5 to 28.0 1 while the average volume of milk churned was 3.6 1 (range 7.5 1) representing a churn capacity fill of 31 average (range 1 .3 to x on 6.8 to 62.5 X). The sour milk churned had a pH range of 3 to 5 and was churned at an average temperature of 26 :C. Churning time averaged 28.8 minutes (range 10 to 50 minutes). Overall efficiency of fat recovery using traditional churning methods ranged between 57.5 % and 85 % It is concluded management systems, coefficients with an average of 71.6 % that the production levels and milk marketing and milk processing found in this study are similar to those reported elsewhere for traditional agro-pastoral systems in Africa. Recommendations that could bring improvements in all the aspects studied are given about
A study of the sustainability of the caritas dairy cattle project in Mbeya rural district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kubetta, N.E.
Poverty remains predominantly a rural phenomenon, although the number of the poor in urban areas, mainly the unemployed and those engaged in the informal sector, is growing fast. Since independence, the Government of Tanzania has had poverty eradication as one of its main goals. One of the interventions is the creation of an enabling environment for private investment in productive sectors including agriculture and livestock, mining and tourism among others. This study was done in Mbeya Rural District with the objective of assessing the sustainability of the CARITAS Dairy Cattle Project. The study used a cross-sectional design in which a sample of 112 household beneficiaries was interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer program. Results from this study revealed that more than 87% had a primary education which is sufficient for livestock keeping. The community was fully involved and participated during establishment of the project and thus, it is quite aware of the project details and its importance. About 53% had attended training on dairy cattle management while the rest received knowledge and skills through their colleagues. More than 56% of the beneficiaries earned their annual income ranging from Tshs 500 000.00 to Tshs 2 500 000.00 through milk production. Considering all the above, the project showed all signs of sustainability provided that beneficiaries are empowered through market opportunities for the livestock products mainly milk, involves other development partners and ensures higher coverage of training on dairy cattle management and product marketing in the area.
A ‘Smart’ approach on fluoride removal: detection in water sources and removal with biomass
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2020-01) Mwakabona, Hezron
Fluoride is one of the common minerals found in natural water, ingestion of which, at moderate concentration, is linked to good dental health. However, ingestion of higher concentrations of this mineral over a period is responsible for fluorosis, a disorder characterised by mottling of teeth and skeletal deformations. Therefore, the WHO sets the highest permissible level of this mineral in drinking water at 1.5 mg/L to limit its effect on public health. Consequently, a water source with fluoride concentration above this highest permissible level is regarded as unfit for human consumption, hence, requiring a treatment before consumption. As such, several studies have explored different low-cost methods to detect and remove this contaminant from drinking water. These include defluoridation and detection of fluoride by plant biomass and iron-based materials, respectively. These materials arc attractive because they have a potential for providing efficacious and cost-effective methods to deal with this water contaminant. In this thesis, the challenges delaying their field application (in detection and removal) of fluoride arc identified and suitable solutions are presented. Furthermore, the properties of iron that make it suitable for fluoride detection and removal enhancement in aqueous media arc presented. A critical review of the studies published over the past three decades on water defluoridation by non-aciivated biomass reveals that, most studies explorc extensively only the defluoridation efficiency/capacily ofthese materials. This bias in studied properties is shown to be due to inadequacy in selection of study parameters, where, the defluoridation mechanisms are poorly studied. This could have resulted in the current poor understanding of their defluoridation mechanisms. Therefore, lessons from these studies were used to identify and propose the “must include” parameters to direct the future studies for better understanding of their defluoridation properties, especially, the defluoridation mechanisms. These are: effect of solution pH, point of zero charge and surface functional groups characterisation before and after material use. For plant biomass ash, the major challenge associated with its application in water defluoridation was found to be related to media-induced contamination of the treated water, notorious being the elevation of the pH of the treated water. This challenge could have repelled many possible applications of this material in water treatment besides its great potentials as water treatment material. In this study, the Cyperus plants were successfully
The ability of sheep to reach for food through tombstone barriers, as affected by position of food, body weight and body dimensions
(2000) Muhikambele, V.R. M.; Owen, E.; Mould, F.L.; Mtenga, A.
Two studies were undertaken to provide information on the ability of sheep to reach for food similar to that for cattle fed through tombstone barriers. In the first study twenty castrate and twenty non-pregnant: female unshorn Suffolk x Mule sheep (23 - 89 kg live weight) were trained to reach through a vertical' tombstone barrierJor concentrate meal placed on a horizontal platform attached to the barrier. The barrier allowed the neck to pass through, but not the shoulders. It was hypothesised that horizontal reach forwards (F. distance from mid-point of barrier to uneaten meal) and sideways (S. distance sideways from ' mid-point of barrier to uneaten meal adjacent to barrier) would be a function of height of platform above the floor and bt size (M). Because of size. seventeen sheep (mean 34.6 kg) were unable to reach the meal when the p at form height was 75 cm. Mean (s. e.) values for F cit platform heights O. 25. 50 and 75 cm were 43.91.03. 9.40.91. 47. 00. 96 and 27.01.27 em respectively. Values for Sweresmaller but followed a similar pattern (36.61.10. 43.50.80. 41.00. 79 and 22.91.78 em). Lihearregression showed that F or S could be predicted from M (R2 >0.5) or a combination of M and withers height (R2>0. 7) when platform heights were 25. 50 or 75 cm. Reach at 0 cm platform height was not related to body weight or linear dimensions. In the second study with unshorn Suffolk x Mule sheep. ten castrates and ten non-pregnant fomales (23 - 97 kg live weight) were trained to reach through the tombstone barrier for concentrate pellets glued'. using molasses. onto a vertical plate. It was hypothesised that vertical reach (V. distance from floor to uneaten pellets) would be afunction of distance between barrier wid plate (20. 30. 40. 45. 50 cm). height of step (0. 14.2. 28.4. 42.6 cm) on which sheep placed their forelegs. and body size. With the-exception of the largest sh'eep. most were unable to reach pellets either when the barrier-to-plate distance was 45~nd 50cin. or when theforeleg-step height was 42. 6 cm. Mean (s.e) Vvaluesdecreasedwith step height (e.g. at 0 cm step. 103.83.04. 96.23.23 and 82.14.3 7cm. at 20. 30 and 40 cm plate distances respectively; at ~Ocm plate distance. 103.83.04.118.72.83 and 131.92.91 cm at O. 14.2 and 28.4 cm step heights respectively). Linear regression of V on body weight and linear dimensions (e.g. withers height and rump height) showed high correlations (R2> O. 8). V could be predicted from either M ~>O. 7) or a combination of rump height andwithers height~>0.9). The results confirm relationshipsfound in a previous investigation }'lith goats. but demonstrate that sheep have a smaller reach than goats. The data will facilitate the design of mangers for sheep with body dimensions in the range of those used.
Abundance and dispersal of the African black beetle, (heteronychus arator f.) (coleoptera: scarabaeidae) in Njombe region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Abdallah, Mussa
The invasive African black beetle Heteronychus arator F. is a serious pest of crops in Tropical and sub Tropical regions, including East Africa. Literature on ecology of this pest in Sub Saharan Africa is scarce. Abundance and dispersal of H. arator were determined in maize fields in Njombe Region, Southern highlands of Tanzania, from December 2013-May 2014. Soil sampling was done monthly to determine larvae abundance of H. arator. Similarly adults H. arator were collected monthly by hand picking and pitfall traps. Results showed that larvae were present throughout the growing season, with low population at planting and peak period coinciding with optimum soil moisture. The abundance of adults varied with sampling time, high peaks recorded during the onset of rainfall. Abundance of both larvae and adults were significantly (P < 0.001) affected by fertilizer type. High populations were observed in farmyard manure. Dispersal of H. arator was significantly (P < 0.001) affected by fertilizer type. A high number of beetles moved significantly longer distances in bio slurry than farmyard and inorganic fertilizer. The number of beetles significantly decreased with increase in rainfall (e = - 0.011, P <0.001, Exp [P] = 0.989). On the contrary, average temperature was positively associated with number of beetles [e = 0.748, P< 0.001, Exp (P) = 2.11], Larval abundance was significantly associated with rainfall [e = 0.0045, P < 0.03, Exp (P) = 1.004]. To study damage and control of H. arator, a separate experiment was set up with un treated, strip tillage, trap crop and insecticides. Results showed that damage by H. arator progressed from seedling to milk stage of maize in all plots. H. arator significantly (P < 0.001) affected above ground biomass, cob length, seed weight and grain yield but not cob weight of maize. Damage however differed significantly among treatments (P < 0.001) and across seasons (P < 0.001). Least damage was recorded in insecticide treated plots, and highest in untreated plots. The interaction between control method and time affected damage significantly (P < 0.001). The results provide useful input into management of H. arator under different fertilizer practices and weather conditions.
Abundance and distribution of ixodid tick species Infesting cattle reared under traditional farming Systems in Tanzania
(African Journal of Agricultural Research, 2017) Kerario, Isack Ibrahim; Muleya, Walter; Chenyambuga, Sebastian; Koski, Marja; Hwang, Seong-Gu; Simuunza, Martin
Ticks and tick-borne diseases are serious constraints to livestock production in Tanzania and other sub-Saharan African countries. Despite this, knowledge on the abundan ce of tick species infesting cattle in most parts of Tanzania is insufficient or lacking. This study was conducted to identify species and establish the abundance of ticks infesting cattle in Mara, Singida and Mbeya regions of Tanzania. The ticks were collected from one side of the body, counted and identified, based on morphological characteristics; to species level. The mean tick count per animal was significantly higher in Mara (35.8±4.3, p=0.0001) as compared to Singida (12.9±2.1) and Mbeya (7.0±0.4) regions. Young animals in Mara (24.7±6.0, p=0.0395) and Mbeya (5.4±0.3, p=0.0252) exhibited relatively lower mean tick counts compared to the weaners (Mara = 33.8±6.5, Mbeya = 7.2±0.7) and adult animals (Mara = 46.3±8.4, Mbeya = 7.8±0.7). Seven tick species from three different genera, namely Ambylomma, Hyalomma, Rhipicephalus (including the subgenus Boophilus), were identified. However, only five species (A. lepidum, A. variegatum, R. decoloratus, R. microplus and H. rufipes) were observed in all the three regions. R. appendiculatus and R. evertsi were not found in Mbeya and Mara respectively. The most prevalent species in Mara, Singida and Mbeya were R. appendiculatus (50.5%), A. lepidum (31.2%) and R. evertsi (35.6%), respectively. This study showed the existence of a variety of tick species, most of them being of veterinary importance. Therefore, strategic planning and cost-effective tick control measures should be implemented in order to reduce losses caused by ticks and tick borne diseases in the study area.
Abundance and diversity of wild mammals along a hydrologic gradient in the Usangu wetlands, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kicheleri, Rose Peter
This study was conducted in the Eastern Usangu wetland in Mbcya and Iringa regions to examine the composition, abundance and diversity of mammals along a hydrological gradient. Data were collected in two seasons using distance sampling method along transects using a GPS to locate positions. Kruskal-Wallis, Pearson’s correlation and t-tests were employed to test the association of distance and number of animals observed along the gradient. Diversity of mammals along the gradient was determined by a number of indices using PRIMER 5.0 software. The study revealed that animal sightings decreased with distances from the edge of wetland though not significant different along the gradient. Also, flight distance of observed mammals was high indicating higher degree of poaching, and probably disturbances. Human activities such as abandoned farms, demolished houses and fresh livestock dung. were rampant in the wetlands. There was a statistically significant difference in the number of observed mammals in the two seasons, where species richness and abundance were higher in the late dry season. These results indicate that wetlands are important refuge areas for mammals as both abundance and diversity decreased with distance from the edge of the wetland. This study recommends a continuous monitoring of birds and mammals populations such as topi to help in determining the changes in abundance and diversity over time in Usangu wetlands as a result of intervention from anthropogenic disturbances.
Acceptability of a prototype point of care test for human taeniosis and cysticercosis diagnosis, in Mbeya and Songwe
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2019) Emil, Thomas
The proto-type Taenia solium taeniosis/cysticercosis point of care test (TSTC-POC test) is a combined T. solium taeniosis / cysticercosis diagnostic test that enables immediate diagnosis of individuals suffering from taeniosis or cysticercosis or both, and hence, enabling immediate interventions. A cross-sectional study was carried out in selected District health facilities (Ifisi, Makandana and Vwawa) of Mbeya and Songwe Regions, Tanzania to assess perceptions and factors influencing the acceptability of the TSTC-POC test among individuals who were tested during a TSTC-POC test proto-type evaluation. The assessment of acceptability of the TSTC-POC test was carried out through application of Health Belief Model (HBM), a social science theoretical framework. A total of 260 persons were interviewed using a structured questionnaire immediately after they undertook the TSTC-POC test. Data were analyzed using SPSS 16.0 where descriptive statistics and association between variables using Chi-square test were computed. Statistical significance was established at 95% confidence level and p value <0.05. The acceptability of the POC test was high (95.4%). The main factor making the test acceptable was the short time it took between testing and getting the result (45.3% of the respondents). Factors that motivated individuals to undergo the TSTC-POC test include the perceived threat of the disease (death and disabilities), trust in health practitioners and the diagnostic tool itself. Acceptability of TSTC-POC test was not influenced by study hospital, age groups, gender, education level and primary occupation of study participants. It is concluded that the TSTC-POC test is acceptable among study population of Mbeya and Songwe region, southern Tanzania. Information on the test's sensitivity and specificity is required to guide its adoption and promotion for control of TSTC in Tanzania, a potential breakthrough in TSTC surveillance.
Access and use of information communication technologies by agricultural extension agents in Tanzania
(Journal of the Open University of Tanzania, 2017) R, Martin; Kahamba, J. S
Many studies have focused on the use of ICT by farmers; however, little attention has been on the use ICT by agricultural extension agents who are the bridge between source of agricultural knowledge and technologies on one hand and the smallholders on the other. Based on a cross sectional study of agricultural extension agents enrolled at Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), in this paper we present, as a point of departure, the extent of access and usage of ICT by agricultural extension agents in Tanzania. Also, factors that influence the use of ICT by Agricultural Extension Agents are assessed. Finally, a conclusion is made and recommendations offered based on the findings.

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