Theses and Dissertations Collection

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Attitudes of extension staff towards decentralization of extension services to the local government: the case of Morogoro and Tabora municipalities
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Sikira, Anna Nyakaunda
Previous experience have shown that decentralization can have an influence on attitudes of extension staff towards their work. This in a way, can found to have a profound impact on the performance on agricultural extension service provision. Using extension staff of Morogoro and Tabora Municipalities, factors influencing the development of either positive or negative attitude of extension staff towards decentralization were determined. The general objective of the study was to assess the attitude of extension staff in Morogoro and Tabora Municipalities towards the decentralization of agricultural extension services to the local government. The specific objectives of the study were (i) to determine the attitude of extension staff towards decentralization of extension services to the local government (ii) to seek opinions of extension staff on the decentralization of extension services to the local government (iii) to determine the influence of personal and job related characteristics on attitude of extension staff towards decentralization of extension services to the local government. Morogoro and Tabora Municipalities were randomly selected from the list of all phase one districts in the country. The study employed the cross-sectional design whereby data were collected through personal observations, self administered questionnaire, probing and- informal discussions with extension staff and officials at the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security (MAFS) and the Ministry of Regional Administration and Local Government ■ (MRALG). The population of the study comprised of extension staff, Municipal Extension Officers and Municipal Agricultural and Livestock Development Officers. A total of 76 respondents were involved in self administered questionnaire. Extension staffs’ perception towards decentralization of extension services were determined using Likert-type interview items. The findings of this study show that the attitudes of extension staff were fairly negative. Generally, the majority of the extension staff had the opinion that decentralization will not improve extension service provision. Factors associated with negative attitude of extension staff towards decentralization of extension services were lack of personal emolument and incentive package like promotion, lack of logistic support, and lack of adequate operational funds. It is recommended that, the government should rectify the existing situation through improvement in personal emoluments and incentive packages so as to develop positive attitude towards decentralization of extension services among extension staff who are the key actors in extension services provision.
Contribution of Sunflower farming to household poverty reduction among smallholder farmers in Manyoni District Singida Region – Tanzania
(SUA, 2014) Mnyambugha, Modest William
Sunflower farming has been practiced for a long time in many parts of the world including Tanzania aiming at improving livelihood of the people. Sunflower farming is an important sector that produces and nourishes rural as well as urban and peri-urban people with quality oil, which is free from cholesterol. The aim of this study was to investigate the contribution of sunflower farming to household poverty reduction among smallholder farmers in Manyoni District. Data were collected by interviewing farmers using semi structured questionnaires as a main tool, which comprised of closed and open ended questions. Descriptive, T-test and regression analyses using Statistical Package for Social Sciences were employed as tools of analysis to determine contribution of sunflower farming to household poverty reduction among smallholder farmers. Results revealed that Factors such as farm size, frequency of contacting extension officer, availability of sunflower market, and market price earned significantly influenced the increase in income among the smallholder sunflower farmers at p < 0.05. However, sex of respondent, respondent's age (years), respondent's marital status, respondents education level and the size of the household did not significantly influence the increase in household income among the smallholder farmers at p < 0.05. It was concluded that smallholder sunflower farming sector still has the potential to contribute to poverty reduction through increased income and meet oil and animal feed requirements to the people in the study area. However smallholder farmers will need a boost from productivity-improving technologies and support services because there is a need to accelerate technology uptake to address declining farm production being experienced by smallholder farmers in Tanzania.
Assessment of factors contributing to the rejection of cotton as a substitute cash crop for cashew nut in Kisarawe District.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Msosa, Evance Gabriel
The living standard of the majority of people in Kisarawe District is relatively low. In respect of this situation, the District authority in Kisarawe decided to introduce the cotton fanning intervention programme in order to substitute the dwindling cashew nut. However the attempt failed. The objective of the study was therefore to examine the reasons of failure brought about by the intervention programme in the area. Data were collected using interview schedule assisted by the focus group discussion. The cross section survey design was used in the study. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse data by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme. The major findings of the study revealed that the majority of the respondents were not aware of the cotton farming programme, though they were ambitious to know more about the programme. Furthermore, the study revealed that the big problem was inappropriate approach employed by the authority to win the interests of smallholders that resulted into failing to conduct some extension and adoption procedures including the needs assessment. Also the entire theme was poorly addressed to the society. The study recommends that the Kisarawe District Council should critically review the entire cotton farming programme and re-introduce the programme by following all the necessary extension and adoption procedures. Also where possible the District Council should establish contract with the fanners to assure output sustainability to buyers and steady cash flow to the farmers.
Position of women in fruits and vegetables value chain: a case study of Chalinze and Kiwangwa wards in Coast Region of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2012) Swamila,Martha
Using the baseline survey data, this study was set out to establish the baseline position of women in fruits and vegetables value chain at Chalinze and Kiwangwa wards in the coast region of Tanzania. By intergrating gender (taking men into an account), the study specifically aimed at identifying activities done by women and men in fruits and vegetables value chain, determining the profit margin accrued by women and men in fruits and vegetables value chain and identifying socio economic factors influencing women and men position in fruits and vegetables value chain. The study results are expected to expand the knowledge of policy makers and development practitioners on the position of women in fruits and vegetables value chain in the specified research areas which consequently will lead them to make the informed decisions regarding women empowerment in FVV. Purposive sampling was used to select wards and villages basing on the concentration of women economic groups involved in fruits and vegetables value chain and simple random sampling was used to select households and 239 respondents for the interview. SPSS and STATA softwares were used to analyse data. The study found that, land preparation, planting/sowing, weeding, fertilizer application and harvesting were done by both women and men. However women were less participating in transporting fruits and vegetables produce to the market places for trading. Value adding activities were not highly practiced in the study areas. With the exception of amaranthus, the gross margins accrued by female respondents in pineapples, banana and mangoes were relatively lower than those accrued by male respondents. Education level and membership in farmers’ associations were found to influence both women and men position in FVV while position in the household was found to influence women position and access to market information was found to influence men position in FVV. The study recommends the provision of education, training on agricultural and business skills, strengthening of farmers’ associations and promotion of women members in farmers’ associations in order to improve their positions in fruits and vegetables value chain.
Studies on influence of sowing time of beans (phaseolus vulgaris) on level of infestation and parasitism of the bean stem maggot
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) John Eias Sariah
The influence of time of sowing of beans, Phaseolus vulgaris, on level of infestation and parasitism of the bean stem maggot (BSM) (Ophiomyia spp) was studied during off-season cropping of beans at Madira farm, Tengeru. Two bean varieties, Lyamungu 90 and ZPV 292, which are susceptible and tolerant to BSM, respectively, were sown in the field. Three sowing dates were adopted; early, normal calendar and late sowing in a split-plot design. The abundance of BSM pupae in bean stems and the number of cracked stems due to infestation were established. Ophiomyia spencerella were the dominant bean fly maggots infesting the crop. Sowing dates had significant (p 0.001) influence on BSM infestation. Early sown beans experienced low BSM infestation. The bean variety ZPV 292, was relatively less infested. Braconids were the dominant parasitoids and the relationship to the host population was density dependent. Parasitism reduced emergence of BSM by about 68%. Variety and sowing time (factor) interaction had no significant (p > 0.05) influence on BSM infestation and natural enemies parasitism. The study shows that timely sowing of beans enable the crop to escape peak population of BSM at the most vulnerable plant growth stage. The study further shows that natural parasitism by Braconids play an important role in maintaining a low population of BSM.
Effective bench terrace width for vegetable growth: a case study of Mgeta, Western Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Nthonyiwa, Alex Solomon
Terraces are the structures that need be designed to safely and economically collect and transport water to the designed out let. Bench terraces will either hold a lot of water or a little amount of water leading to landslides and crop stress respectively and this depends on the terrace width. A study was conducted at Mgeta, Western Uluguru mountains in Tanzania to determine the effective bench terrace width for vegetable growth. The experiment was conducted in four bench terrace widths of 0.6 m, 1.0 m, 1.6 m and 2.0 m in four blocks. It involved the assessment of catchment characteristics (physical and hydraulic properties and stream sizes) and performance indicators in the terraces (soil wetting pattern, the distribution uniformity, adequacy of retained soil moisture, landslides occurrence, crop yield and specific yield). The soils of the catchment were sandy loams with acceptable porosity (52.2% to 58.5%) which differed significantly between the blocks (P<0.05) and acceptable bulk density (1.1 to 1.3 g/cm3) which did not differ between blocks (P>0.05). This indicated low soil compaction. The infiltration rates and hydraulic conductivity were very high with means of 14.6 cm/hr and 8.0 cm/hr respectively and differed significantly between blocks (P<0.05) and this indicated high drainage and low soil moisture retention. The soil depth was moderately deep with a mean of 35.43 cm which indicated low soil moisture retention. The calculated stream sizes ranged from 1.39 1/s to 2.73 1/s while the observed stream sizes ranged from 0.25 1/s to 1.5 1/s and differed significantly (P<0.05). The distribution uniformity coefficient was highest in a 1.6 m terrace width (60%) and lowest in a 2.0 m width (21.4%). A width of 2.0 m had the highest water equivalent depth (62.5 mm) and retained the highest level of moisture (11.5 mm). This indicated excessive loss moisture of through deep percolation which resulted into a reduction in crop yield. The observed equivalent water depth and soil moisture retention were lowest in a 0.6m width. Landslides did not occur in all the terrace widths. The relative water supply (RWS) was highest in a 1,0m width (1.02) and indicated that the moisture retained in this terrace width was adequate. This resulted into highest specific yield (0.86 t/ha). The relative water supply was lowest in 0.6m width and resulted into a relatively higher crop yield (0.43 t/ha). The specific yield was highest in a 1.0 m width (0.86 kg/m3)and lowest in a 2.0 m width (0.41 kg/m3). However, the crop and specific yield in all the terrace widths were below the recommended. It was concluded 1.6m width performed effectively and better than a rest of the widths. Hence, 0.6m to 1.6m is a best range of terrace width in the area.
Communication media preferences by rural communities for acquisition of agricultural information in Mvomero and Kilosa Dstricts, Morogoro, Tanzania
(Sokoine Univesirty of Agriculture, 2016) Busindeli, Innocent Mathias
It has not been established yet whether or not the availability, accessibility and content of communication media and their related factors influence heteregeneous groups in their preferences for communication media for acquisition of agricultural information in rural communities in Tanzania. This study aimed at establishling preferences for communication media for acquisition of agricultural information by rural community members in Mvomero and Kilosa Districts. It comprised a sample size of 240 community members, whereby data were obtained using a semi-structured questionnaire, focus group discussions, key informant interviews, observations and document reviews. The quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using SPSS and NUD*IST Vivo (Nvivo) computer softwares respectively. Results indicated that availability and accessibility of radio influenced men, women and youths in their preference for the medium; while based on availability of agricultural information that meet their needs: Men preferred broadcast media (radio and television); women preferred booklets, while youths preferred mobile phones. In addition, acceptability of print media was influenced by readability. The study established the readability Flesch index of 54.99 for leaflets and booklets in the study area that had not been established. This means that people with low level of education in the study area had problems in understanding the content of print media. Furthermore, accessibility of leaflets and television was influenced by education level and income of community members. This is an added knowledge in the Preference Theory. Finally, the study identified organisational constraints as most influential constraints to utilisation of communication media. In conclusion, preference for communication media by rural community members is influenced by their availability, accessibility and content ofcommunication media. The study recommends establishing at least one farmers’ resource centre per ward in rural areas to enhance availability of communication media; government intervention to reduce costs of television and its accessories for boosting usage and accessibility of television to low income earners in rural areas, and increasing funds for print media production to facilitate production of quality and readable leaflets and booklets among others.
The role of participatory approaches in smallholder farmers rice production in Morogoro region: the case of the national special programme on food production [NSPFP] in Mang’ula division, kIlombero district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Laizer Raphael Kiyoyan Loishiro
The use of participatory approaches in rural development programmes is now becoming globally and locally advocated. In Tanzania, these approaches are believed to present an opportunity to smallholder fanners to participate in all stages of the agricultural programmes for sustainable agricultural production. Using NSPFP as a case study, the role of participatory approaches in smallholder rice production in Morogoro Region was studied. The overall objective of the study was to examine the extent to which NSPFP participatory approaches have contributed towards increased adoption of rice technologies and yields amongst smallholder rice farmers in Mang'ula Division, Kilombero District. The study focused on three specific objectives: 1)To identify the improved rice technologies and practices that smallholder rice farmers (PFG and non-PFG members) have adopted as a result of the use of NSPFP participatory approaches. 2)To assess the effect of adoption on increased rice yields among smallholder rice farmers due to NSPFP participatory approaches. 3)To assess the attitudes of key actors with respect to contacts to address smallholder rice farmers production constraints. The population for the study was all smallholder farmers in Mang'ula Division and the sampling frame was purposively determined to be smallholder rice farmers in the three villages (Mang'ula1 A, Ichonde and Kisawasawa) in Mang'ula Division where NSPFP activities are concentrated. The cross-sectional research design and stratified random sampling technique was used to establish the strata of respondents interviewed. All PFG members formed one stratum while non-PFG members formed the o±er. The purposive sub-sample of 75 PFG members determined ±e other sub-sample of 75 non-PFG members, thus making a sample size of 150 respondents interviewed. All the extension staff and some key informants were also interviewed to get information pertinent to the study objectives. Structured interview schedules were used to collect data from the PFG and non- PFG members, whereas semi-structured interview schedules were used to collect data from extension staff and key informants. The results of the study show that the relationship between the increase in adoption of rice technologies and yields was not statistically significant for PFG and non- PFG members. A significant difference was observed in terms of programme contact to respondents. NSPFP contacted more respondents than other agricultural extension programmes due to use of PFGs as the organizational structures that facilitated the use of the selected participatory approaches (i.e.PFGMs, DFs, FFDs, GDFs and Workshops or Seminars). The results revealed that while the DFs were used as demonstration centres of the selected rice innovations, the trained GDFs were used as consultants of PFG and non- PFG members on the selected and demonstrated rice innovations on need basis to complement efforts of VEOs at the grassroots level. From the results of the study, FFDs were used as the places for the key actors toverily the potential of using rice innovations and become aware of their working relationship. The statistical analysis showed ±at, there was a highly significant difference between PFG and non-PFG members on the purposes of interacting together to learn and select the improved rice technologies, discuss on availability of agricultural inputs and verify the potential of using rice innovations. The study recommends formation of more PFGs as the organizational structures that would facilitate the use of participatory approaches, establishment of linkages with agricultural support services and interaction among the key actors in agricultural production.
Factors influencing use of improved postharvest storage technologies among small scale maize farmers: a case of kilolo district, Tanzania
(Sokoine university of Agriculture, 2018) Kadeha, Twilumba Joseph.
Specifically, the objectives of the study were: to identify the commonly used postharvest storage technologies commonly by maize farmers, to determine small scale farmers knowledge on the use of improved postharvest storage technologies, to determine the perception of small scale maize farmers toward the use of improved maize postharvest storage technologies and to identify factors influencing the use of improved maize postharvest storage technologies. The cross-sectional research design was used for the study. The population included all small scale maize farmers in the study area and sample size was 260 respondents. Data were collected using personal interviews. Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and non- participant observation. Descriptive statistics such as means, frequencies, percentage and inferential statistics such as a binary logistic regression model were computed. The commonly used postharvest storage technologies were traditional storage technologies such as traditional granaries, bamboo basket and polythene bags and 60% of small scale maize farmers had low knowledge on the use of improved storage technologies. The study further found that 80% of small scale maize farmers had positive attitude toward the use of improved storage technologies. Formal education, access to credit, extension services, membership in farmers groups and distance from home to the market place were the factors influencing the use of improved postharvest storage technologies. This study recommended that, extension agents should increase their contact with farmers, the government should subsidize improved postharvest storage technologies with a high initial cost in order to enhance their use and Kilolo District Council and extension officers should encourage farmers to form groups for community storage such as cereal banks and warehouse receipts system.
The role of Sasakawa global 2000 project credit system in the adoption of improved wheat technologies by smallholder farmers in Ethiopia: the case of Hetosa District
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1999) Jibba, Kedir Bati
The general objective of this study was to examine the role of SG-2000 project credit system in the adoption of improved wheat technologies by smallholder farmers in Hetosa District. The specific objectives of the study were: (i) to identify wheat technologies that have been adopted as a result of the credit system, (ii) to assess the effect of credit system on the adoption of wheat technologies, and (iii) to assess farmers' and extension agents' perceptions on the SG-2000 credit system.The design of this study was a cross-sectional survey, which involved collecting data at one point in time from a selected sample of respondents. Data were collected using an interview schedule and a questionnaire supported by personal observation, informal discussion and informal interviews with key informants. A simple random sample of 50 and 60 respondents was picked from SG-2000 and non-SG-2000 farmers respectively (using a table of random numbers) to form a sample size of 110. The results (of this study) show that wheat technologies such as wheat varieties kubsa and wabe; proper land preparation; DAP and urea fertilizers; and 2,4-D (U-46) herbicide were adopted by the majority of farmers. Out of these adopted wheat technologies, urea fertilizer and 2,4-D (U-46) herbicide were adopted by smallholder farmers as a result of SG-2000 credit system. The analysis of the data revealed that the SG-2000 credit system had a significant effect on the adherence to recommended rates of wheat technologies (DAP and urea fertilizers and 2,4-D or U-46 herbicide), on the use (expansion) of urea fertilizer and 2,4-D herbicide and on the wheat yields per hectare. The results of Chi-square statistical test for relationship between the involvement in SG-2000 credit system and the following: (a) the adoption of the recommended rates of fertilizers (DAP and UREA), and herbicide (2,4-D or U-46); (b) percentage of wheat area in which urea fertilizer and 2,4-D herbicide were applied in relation to farmers total wheat land; and (c) wheat yield per hectare were found to be statistically significant. Farmers perceptions on SG-2000 credit system were that: SG 2000 credit system is effective in making of credit inputs (like improved seeds, fertilizers and herbicides) available on time, provides regular supervision, has less bureaucratic procedures for credit provision, and helpful in adoption of wheat technologies. However, farmers were not happy with the inflexibility of SG-2000 in some of the conditions (such as amount of down payment, size of EMTP) for obtaining credit. It was found out that the down payment conditions put forward by SG-2000 only favoured well-to-do farmers and not poor ones. Hence this enhances the equity gap. The extension workers' perception on SG-2000 credit system indicated that the credit system assisted farmers in the adoption of wheat technologies. However, the following were found to be the weaknesses of the SG-2000 credit system: involvement of extension workers in input distribution and credit repayment collection, lack of regular training for extension workers, low involvement of relatively poor farmers and lack of specific recommendations for wheat technologies (eg urea fertilizer) for various locations. Recommendations pertaining to this study are provided in chapter five.
Evaluation of the contribution of farmer field schools in rice production in the Kilombero district of Morogoro region, Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Ally, Mgonzo Dunia
This study investigated the contribution of farmer Field Schools in rice production in Kilombero Districts. Specifically this study determined the level of adoption of rice production practices recommended during Farmers Field School and the average rice yield obtained as a result of FFS participation. Simple random sampling was used to obtain 60 respondents from non FFS participants and 51 respondents from FFS participants making a total of 111 respondents to participate in this study. Data were collected by using structured interview schedule, and thereafter entered and analyzed by using SPSS computer programme. The findings reveal that the level of adoption of recommended rice production practices like rice varieties, fertilizers, spacing and weeding was high among FFS participants than among non FFS participants. However, both groups didn’t apply the recommended phosphate fertilizer in their rice fields. Average yield was also high among FFS participants than among non FFS participants. The correlation test results revealed that the level of adoption of recommended rice production practices and average rice were significantly high among FFS participants than among non FFS participants. Also chi - square test indicated a highly significant difference between FFS participants and non FFS participants in terms of adoption of recommended rice participants and non FFS participants in terms of adoption of recommended rice production practices and average yield. Based on study findings it is recommended that FFS facilitators should put more emphasis on the application of phosphate fertilizers in rice fields. Also the Ministry of Agriculture, Food security and cooperatives should insist on the use of FFS approach in all rice growing areas.
Factors influencing adoption of improved maize production technologies and practices in the national extension intervention programme (neip) in Awassa district, Ethiopia.
(Sokoine University of Agriculure, 1999) Elala, Sebsibe Teklu
Currently, the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) of Ethiopia has been stressing peoples' involvement in development activities. This approach is believed to facilitate the attainment of sustainable self-reliant development. In this regard. MOA has launched the National Extension Intervention Programme (NE1P) in the country. Thus using the PAEP as a case study, adoption of improved maize production technologies and practices were studied. Here, the main objective of the study was to investigate factors influencing the adoption of improved maize production technologies and practices in Awassa district, Ethiopia. Specifically, the study sought to: determine the extent of adoption of the introduced technologies and practices: identify and analyze factors influencing adoption of the introduced technologies and practices; identify and analyze factors associated with involvement of farmers in the programme; and determine farmers' and extension workers' perceptions on the approach of the programme. Data for the study were mainly collected through interviews of 120 farmers in six development centers, and through self-administered questionnaire from 31 extension workers in the region. The study used two analytical tools in assessing the data and information collected. These are descriptive and regression analyses. From these analyses the study concluded that: (i)Farm size, number of draft oxen owned by the farmers, income, extension service, and credit were strongly associated with involvement in the programme and have significant influence on the adoption of the introduced technologies. (ii)Adoption of the introduced technologies and practices was strongly associated with involvement in the programme. (iii)Among the identified factors, credit was the highest predictor for involvement in the programme and adoption of purchased technologies. (iv) Improved maize variety was the least adopted technology among the components of the package. (v) In the study, according to respondent extension workers' perceptions, the extension workers involvement in input distribution and repayment collection. affects the performance of extension workers activities. Recommendations from the study include: (i)The role of extension service is very important in the technology adoption process. Therefore it should be expanded specially to those disadvantaged areas. Here extension agents should also make efforts to ensure that female farmers are directly targeted as agricultural service beneficiaries. (ii)Input distribution and the financial administration should be strictly separated from (he extension service in order to ensure good relations between extension workers and farmers. The extension agents should concentrate on their educational tasks of teaching farmers improved farm practices. Their attention should not be diverted by such chores as input distribution and loan collection. rather, they should teach their farmers, where they can get inputs and how they can get loans. (iii) One of the major reasons for the non-adoption of the introduced technologies was high input costs. Therefore, if poor farmers arc to benefit from the programme, input costs should be subsidised. Generally the findings from the study have shown that farmers with more resources (the minority) have been involved in the programme and then adopted the introduced technologies more than those with less resources (the majority).
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.
An assessment of the adoption of improved foodgrain storage structures in Mara region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 1996) Bwana, Eliza Nyangeta
This study was designed to assess the adoption of improved storage technology introduced in Mara Region by SG-2000 and UNDP projects. The study concentrated on farmers growing maize and sorghum which are the main crops grown under SG-2000 project. The study was conducted in 10 villages in Tarime and Musoma rural Districts. lt involved 150 farmers and 10 village extension officers from the selected villages. The specific objectives of the study were 1) to determine the level of adoption of improved storage structures introduced by SG-2000 and UNDP projects 2) to identify factors associated with the adoption and non-adoption of improved foodgrain storage structures 3) to determine the perception of farmers and village extension officers on the effectiveness of the improved storage structures and 4) to determine the relationship between farmers’, innovation’s and institutional characteristics on one hand and the adoption of improved storage structures. Data were collected using two types of structured questionnaires: one for farmers who grow maize and sorghum, the other for extension officers. Field observations and secondary data supplemented the questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and multiple regression were used in the analyses. The results revealed that 1) only 4% adopted the technology 2) farmers’ characteristics, innovation and institutional factors were important in influencing the adoption of improved storage technology. Farm size, maintenance and repair costs of the structures, involvement of farmers in the programme, and effectiveness of extension were found to be significant determinants of the level of adoption of improved storage structures. Farmers perceived the improved storage structure as durable with low maintenance and repair costs. However, the adoption depended on other factors such as availability of resources and the information transfer process. Policy recommendations include: (1) Direct involvement of farmers in all phases of technology-innovation process to enhance adoption. (2) Women’s involvement in the programme should be increased by providing extension services directly to them. (3) Extension services have proved to be less effective in transferring the technology to farmers, hence they need to be strengthened. (4) A supervision mission should be established in the programme so as to increase contact between farmers and extension officers and to get a quick feedback.
The role of NGOs in integrating gender in Land conservation in refugee affected areas in Tanzania: a case of Ngara district
(Sokoine university of agriculture, 2000) Bujiji, Stephen Biladadaye
A study to examine the role of NGOs in integrating gender in land conservation in refugee affected areas was conducted in Ngara district with the view to recommend strategies that would foster gender sensitive and responsive land conservation projects in these areas. A cross sectional research design which allows collection of information at one point in time was adopted. Data collection process made use of a structured questionnaire which was administered to a sample of 48 men and 48 women. The data collected were then analysed by using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) computer software. Results showed that NGOs in the study area have been involving both men and women in land conservation initiatives mainly through public meetings for awareness creation and training on land conservation and provision of forest inputs. Mobilization through awareness creation public meetings and training was significantly associated (P<0.05) with gender integration in land conservation initiatives. The major land conservation activities in which men and women were involved were tree nursery establishment and tree planting Participation of men and women in these activities was significantly associated (P<0.05) with their awareness on land degradation and also on land conservation project. The study found that process project planning in land conservation had not been adopted by NGOs. Majority of men and women who were involved in land conservation participated at the level of implementation. It was also observed that formation and/or strengthening of grassroots village environmental committees as part of empowering local communities had notseriously been addressed. The major factor which was found to limit full gender integration in land conservation was lack of regular mobilization particularly for women Mobilization of rural men and women through regular and gender balanced public meetings and training on land conservation initiatives, formation and/or strengthening of gender equity village environmental committees and process project planning are highly recommended. Equally important, co-ordination of NGOs land conservation activities at the district level should be established and strengthened.
Assessment of gender roles in maize production:a case of Mdandu, Igominyi and Makambako Divisions in Njombe District, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Claudius, Beatrice Hemela
This study was conducted at Ibumila, Nyumbanitu, and Magoda villages in Njombe District. The main objective of the study was to assess gender roles in maize production. The specific objectives were to identify existing gender division of labour, to identify reproductive roles performed by fanners, to determine access and control of resources and to examine socio-economic and cultural factors affecting gender relations in maize production. A total of 120 respondents were involved in this study where by 60 were females and 60 were males. Simple random sampling was used to get the intended respondents. The research design used was cross-sectional survey in which data were collected at single point in time through structured questionnaire. Data was coded, entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) computer programme. Descriptive statistics such as frequencies, mean, percentages were used to summarize the information. Results show that, men and women mainly shared agricultural roles in maize production, although women were the dominants in eight activities. Men were found to be the major decision-makers of almost all household productive resources. Also it was revealed that, high prices of farm inputs (27.0%) like fertilizers, improved seeds and pesticides were the major factors affecting gender relations in maize production. However, organization of regular trainings about gender awareness on gender issues, increase of educational contacts with maize farmers; improved supply of subsidized package of inputs should be addressed. Provision of formal marketing system to gride farmers from selling maize to traders (walanguzi)', and provision of adequate physical infrastructure like roads should also be addressed so as to have sufficient and sustainable maize production in a study area.
Effectiveness of agricultural credit on paddy productivity in Kilombero district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Mageka, Rose
The study on which this dissertation is based was conducted to determine the effectiveness of agricultural credit on paddy productivity among smallholder farmers in Kilombero District, Morogoro Region. The study focused on the amount of credit provided to smallholder paddy farmers, improved agricultural inputs, and paddy productivity between credit receivers and non-credit receivers. It also assessed the impact of credit on paddy productivity. The data for this study were collected using a household questionnaire that was administered to a sample of 160 households, 80 of whom had received credit and 80 others who had not. MS Excel and Statistical Product and Services Solutions (SPSS) Version 20 were used to analyse the data. Multiple linear regression was used to establish the influence of credit and some other factors on paddy productivity. The average paddy yields for credit receiving farmers were higher (1641 kg/ha) compared to the yields of paddy from non-credit receivers (1288kg/ha). Credit receipt or otherwise influenced paddy yields negatively, but the influence was not significant (p > 0.05). Despite the non- statistically significant influence of access to credit on paddy yield, credit for paddy production is very important for smallholder farmers to alleviate capital constraints. This was said by focus group participants. Furthermore, the results indicated that labour had a positive influence on paddy productivity which was statistically significant (0 = 0.170, P < 0.05); and improved seeds significantly influenced paddy productivity (0 = 0.414, P < 0.05). Fertilizers also significantly influenced paddy productivity (0 = 0.206, P < 0.05). Based on the findings of this study, it is concluded that receiving credit and using it with the above significant factors appropriately increase paddy productivity in Kilombero District. On the basis of the conclusion, it is recommended that agriculture stakeholders should strive to ensure that credit support facilities and/or agencies support smallholder farmers effectively. Further credit conditions, particularly availability, accessibility, and timeliness should be observed to enhance fanners’ access to agricultural inputs timely.
Uptake of index-based crop insurance among smallholder farmers: the case of rice producers in Mvomero- Morogoro
(Institute of Finance Management, 2022) Mpunde, Venance Michael
In spite of agriculture being source of livelihood in Tanzania, yet the sector is faced by various production risks including climate change and variability. Since crop insurance is an important strategy against natural hazards and risks, farmers arc encouraged to adopt it in order to intensify farm productivity. Therefore, this study sought to determine drivers for uptake of index based crop insurance and inform ways of making crop insurance work for the smallholder producers. Data were collected using questionnaire from 102 rice-producing households where weather index-based insurance had been promoted. A total of 5 insurance companies were also selected for KIIs to determine their distribution models and challenges they face in implementing IBCI. BLRM was used to assess the drivers to adopt IBCI, Content and descriptive analyses measured distribution models and challenges insurers face to implement IBCI respectively. The results show that age of the household(p=0.098), farming experience with IBCI (0.000), distance to the paved road (p=0.014), and household income (0.010) had significant influence to farmers’ participation in IBCI. The content analysis from insurance companies showed that selling covers through local agents was dominant method they use in reaching their clients, quality and availability of weather data (37.5%) and capacity building to stakeholders (29.17%) were serious challenges to implement the programme. These findings therefore highlight the need to create more awareness to farmers on the principles of crop insurance and different products that exist. Similarly, developing good channels that will adequately suit the farmers needs and designing of crop insurance products basing on the need of clients, by doing so the uptake of crop insurance in Tanzania will increase.
Direct and interactional effects of three extension organisations on crop production and farmers' education in northern Tanzania
(The University of the West Indies, 1981) Kiariro, Nzinyangwa Ezekieli
The importance of having an efficient Agriculture Extension Service m predominantly Agricultural countries like Tanzania need no over emphasis. In this study cotton extension service and coffee extension service were studied in comparison with the general extension service The study in Same and Mwanga Districts in Kilimanjaro Region. included 1977/78 and 1979/80 cropping seasons because individual villages began keeping separate data in 1977/78 season. The time of actual field work was between June and November 1980. Total yields and quality in all villages were recorded for the period under study. However, the knowledge of the improved practices by the farmers was obtained by random sampling from the total villages and from each randomly picked village, 20 farmers were randomly selected. Descriptive statistics were used in analysing yield and quality changes over the study period in each extension system. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the distribution of respondents in various knowledge categories; and chi-square test was used to find out association of farmers’ knowledge with various farmers’ characteristics Cotton and coffee respondents were dealt with separately. The findings suggest that resident general extension agents perform better than their commodity counterparts. It was also noted that placing the two extension agents in the same village does not necessarily increase performance than where resident general extension worker alone exists. It was found out that knowledge of improved practices did not differ significantly among the extension systems. It was concluded that increasing the number of resident general extension agents could have improved production more than the commodity approach.
Factors affecting water productivity in farmer-managed irrigation schemes: a case of Ruanda-Majenje in Mbarali district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Kaduma, John William
Irrigation Department and other sectors have been improving irrigated agriculture to overcome problems associated with vagaries of the weather. However, despite these efforts the growing competition in water use between sectors, make the sustainability of irrigation schemes and people’s livelihoods questionable. Improving water productivity (WP) from the reported 0.22-0.32 kg/m3 for cereals in Mkoji sub-Catchment towards 2.0kg/m3 recorded in Asia and World wide at large under irrigation has been found to be the key answers. Several researches have been conducted on WP in the Mkoji sub-Catchment but none assessed factors affecting WP in farmer-managed irrigation schemes (FMIS). Therefore, the overall objective of the study was to investigate factors affecting WP in FMIS in order to suggest strategies for WP enhancement. The study was carried out in Ruanda-Majenje irrigation scheme in Majenje village, in Mbarali District in Mbeya region. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design for household data collection. Also the study involved field experiment and on farmers’ plots observation. Questionnaires, checklists and direct observations were used in data collection. Data were analyzed by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 11.5) and Statistical Analysis System (SAS) computer software in which descriptive statistics such as frequencies, percentages, means, Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and separation of means for maize). Results from the experimental plots show that there are still potentials for improving WP by improving factors affecting WP. The low WP is influenced by socioeconomic, institutional and technical factors such as lack of capital, knowledge, extension services and poor agronomic practices to mention a few. The study recommends that there is a need for the Government and other stakeholders to develop strategies that aim in improving WP since water use competition is growing within agriculture and between other sectors. (WP) from the reported 0.22-0.32 kg/m3 for cereals in Mkoji sub-Catchment towards 2.0 kg/m3 recorded in Asia and World wide at large under irrigation has been found to be the were computed. Findings indicated that WP in farmers' field is still low (0.26-0.76 kg/m3 for maize). Results from the experimental plots show that there are still potentials for improving WP by improving factors affecting WP. The low WP is influenced by socio economic, institutional and technical factors such as lack of capital, knowledge, extension services and poor agronomic practices to mention a few. The study recommends that there is a need for the Government and other stakeholders to develop strategies that aim in improving WP since water use competition is growing within agriculture and between other sectors.

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