Articles, Conference and Workshop Papers Collection

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Gender Equity in Agriculture: Proposing Integrated Solutions to Address Women's Challenges in Rural and Urban Food Production Systems in Tanzania
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2026-07-02) Mosha Devotha Baltazary
Agriculture is central to Tanzania’s economy, and women contribute more than half of the agricultural labour force. Despite this contribution, persistent gender inequalities continue to constrain productivity, weaken food security, and limit inclusive economic growth. This study examines how patriarchal land tenure systems, unpaid care responsibilities, and insecure urban farming arrangements jointly restrict women’s participation in higher-value agricultural production. Drawing on a systematic literature review and a comparative analysis of rural and urban food-production systems, the study proposed an integrated GenderTransformative Approach (GTA) to address these barriers. The findings show that technical support alone is insufficient unless accompanied by structural reforms that strengthen women’s land rights, reduce time poverty through labour-saving and climate-smart technologies, and transform social norms that sustain unequal gender relations. The study therefore proposes a GenderTransformative Framework that links legal reform, institutional support, technological innovation, and community-level change. By addressing both rural exclusion and urban tenure insecurity, the framework offers a pathway to move women from subsistence production into commercial agricultural value chains and to advance gender equity in Tanzania’s food systems. It is recommended that development projects should integrate legal reform, market support, access to technology, and social change within a single framework rather than treating women’s productivity constraints as isolated problems.
Resolving the potential of groundwater in the Upper Great Ruaha River Catchment of Tanzania
(CRC Press / Balkema, part of Taylor & Francis Group, 2022) Mosha D.B.; Gudaga J.L.; Gama D.; Kashaigili J.J.
Globally, the use of groundwater has been growing rapidly, especially in low-income countries, where a range of factors including urbanization, industrialization, land-use changes, and population growth are putting pressure on water provision from surface waters, especially in drylands (Gronwall and Oduro-Kwarteng, 2018). Groundwater is typically viewed as a more resilient water supply option to surface water options for household supply (MacAllister et al., 2020). The population of sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is projected to increase to between 1.5 and 2 billion with approximately 50% of the population living in urban areas by 2050 (Gronwall and Oduro-Kwarteng, 2018). This rising population will require safe drinking water, and water for irrigation to enhance food security (Osborn et al., 2015). Changing climates including rising incidences of drought, higher temperatures, and changes in the frequency and intensity of extreme events accentuate water supply challenges in Africa (Mwakalila, 2014; Sappa et al., 2015). In the Upper Great Ruaha River Catchment (UGRRC) of Tanzania, for instance, it is suspected that river flow has been diminishing while the demand for irrigation water has increased (Mwakalila, 2011). Securing access to sufficient surface water is a growing challenge in this semiarid catchment. Groundwater is increasingly considered as the most viable solution to sustain irrigation (Taylor et al., 2019). Groundwater, in principle, holds particular benefits including drought resilience and ubiquity as its widespread availability provides a buffer against climate variability (MacDonald et al., 2012; Taylor et al., 2013a). Here, we examine the role of groundwater as a freshwater source to sustain livelihoods in the UGRRC (Figure 15.1). Privately owned shallow wells and hand-dug wells have become the fastest-growing source of freshwater in the Usangu Plains
Do project exit practices align with established theories? a comparative case study analysis of selected agriculture-related donor-supported projects in Tanzania
(College of Social Sciences and Humanities, SUA, 2022-12-12) Mkomagi Jeremiah V.; Mosha Devotha B.; Ahmad Athman K.
To address the challenge of ensuring project sustainability, the utilization of well-defined exit strategies has gained significant prominence within the realm of development discourse. However, a notable inconsistency appears to exist between the prevailing application of these strategies and the existing body of knowledge. This study seeks to ascertain the extent to which project exit practices harmonize with established theoretical frameworks. The investigation focuses on two distinct donor-funded agriculture-related projects, employing a comparative case study methodology. The research methodology encompassed in-depth interviews, deliberative focus group discussions (FGDs), and comprehensive surveys. Under the proposition put forth by Levinger and McLeod 2002 for effectual project exits, the data analysis procedure integrates qualitative comparative analysis (QCA) and thematic analysis techniques. The results derived from QCA indicate that, out of the six elements proposed by Levinger and McLeod, the ISFM project diligently applied four, whereas the ECOACT project implemented merely three. Notably, both projects aligned with the practice of planning exit strategies from project inception, fostering collaborative partnerships and linkages, as well as enhancing the capacities of local beneficiaries. Conversely, the aspect of allowing roles and relationships to naturally evolve was uniquely evident solely within the ISFM project. Furthermore, the research projects introduced pivotal measures like establishing farmers' groups, training lead farmers, and cultivating community-based seed production systems, all of which were integral components of their respective exit strategies. In summation, the findings of this study reveal a nuanced scenario where certain facets of project exit practices resonate with established theories, while others do not. As a pragmatic suggestion, project managers are advised to seamlessly integrate exit strategies during project conceptualization, proactively seek and cultivate partnerships with local private entities, and contextualize the application of exit elements proposed by Levinger and McLeod based on the specific exigencies of their projects
Influence of institutional pressures on sustainability of selected agriculture-related donor-supported project activities in Tanzania
(College of Social Sciences and Humanities, SUA, 2022-06-26) Mkomagi Jeremiah V.; Ahmad Athman K.; Mosha Devotha B.
Projects are increasingly failing to sustain activities and benefits beyond the funding period. Informed by the institutional theory, this study employed a comparative case study design to examine the influence of institutional pressures on the sustainability of project activities for two selected donor-funded projects. The study was done in Tanzania’s districts of Chamwino and Namtumbo. A total of 274 respondents - 123 from the ECO-ACT project and 151 from the ISFM project - were sampled proportionately. Household respondents were interviewed using a five-point Likert scale. Key informant interviews (KIIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also held. Descriptive statistics and cumulative logit regression techniques were used to analyse quantitative data. The findings show that local beneficiaries' participation in project activities has mildly decreased, with 20.1%, 2.6%, 20.8%, and 56.5% of respondents reporting no, low, moderate, and high sustainability. Besides, coercive pressure (p=0.003), normative pressure (p=0.010), and mimetic pressure (0.008) were positively related to the sustainability of project activities suggesting that they can influence local beneficiaries to sustain project activities. Furthermore, project beneficiaries were likely to sustain 0.149, 0.97, and 0.118 times more projectsupported activities for every additional unit of coercive, normative, and mimetic pressures. Based on these findings, the study concludes that institutional pressures foster local beneficiaries’ participation in project activities post-exit. The study recommends that project implementers should reinforce coercive, normative and mimetic pressures apart from addressing community-specific problems.
Beneficiaries’ attitudes towards resources withdrawal for selected donor-funded agriculture-related projects in Tanzania: A social cognitive theory perspective
(SSBFNET – Strategic Studies in Business & Finance / Center for Strategic Studies in Business and Finance, 2022-03-16) Mkomagi Jeremiah V.; Mosha Devotha B.; Ahmad Athman K.
The study, using a comparative case study design, explored the attitude of local direct beneficiaries concerning the cessation of resources for two donor-funded agriculture-related projects in Tanzania from a Social Cognitive Theory perspective. Using a 5-point Likert Scale, data from 274 respondents were collected and analysed. Before data analysis, validity and reliability tests were performed and determined to be good. Descriptive statistics including percentages and frequencies were done. Additionally, a chi-square test was done to establish the association between variables. The findings show that local beneficiaries with higher self-efficacy and wider outcome expectancies had a positive attitude as opposed to their counterparts. Also, a positive significant relationship existed between selfefficacy and attitude (P<0.01) and between outcome expectancies and attitudes (P<0.05). Equipping local beneficiaries with the competencies needed to solve problems on their own and the continued functioning of VBAAs can aid local beneficiaries in maintaining a positive attitude post-project resources withdrawal. The study recommends that a transition phase is critical for project implementers to solidify benefits and benefit-enhancing behaviours. Also promoting community-based extension services by institutionalising VBAAs within the LGAs should be given a priority for enhancing sustainability.
Relationship between project benefits and sustainability of activities: a comparative analysis of selected donor-funded agriculture-related projects in Tanzania
(Kampala International University (KIU), 2023) Mkomagi Jeremiah V.; Ahmad Athman K.; Mosha Devotha B.
Projects should impact sustainably the people they were created to assist. Unfortunately, experience shows projects and associated benefits gradually disappear a few years after they are withdrawn. Against this backdrop, the study examined the relationship between project-related benefits and the sustainability of project activities for donor-supported projects. Using a comparative case study design, 274 respondents were sampled proportionately and interviewed using a questionnaire. Benefits were calculated using income gains from project-initiated activities. Analysis of variance results shows that the mean incomes were statistically significant based on sustainability levels, suggesting that the level of sustainability was affected by the changes in income levels. Hence, it is determined that the sustainability of project activities was statistically related to project benefits. The practical implication of the results is that local beneficiaries consider the benefit gains when deciding to engage in project-initiated activities or not. They disengage when they consider the benefits to be low, which compromises the efficacy of exit strategies implemented and the eventual sustainability of activities and outcomes. Project practitioners are encouraged to devise projects whose activities have lucrative economic benefits and expose local beneficiaries to conditions that maximise the likelihood of getting well-paid benefits from project activities.
Determinants of the implementation of agroecological practices among smallholder farmers in Singida District, Tanzania
(European Open Science, 2022) Kanjanja Sauda M.; Mosha Devotha B.; Haule Sylvester C.
Agroecological farming is considered to be among the suitable approach toward sustainable food systems and environmental conservation. Characteristically agroecology is at a low cost as it does not depend on expensive external inputs. Similar to other forms of more sustainable agriculture, implementation of its practices is generally low. There is scant information regarding the causes for its low implementation. This paper, therefore, looks into the determinants of the implementation of agroecological practices among smallholder farmers in Singida District, Tanzania. Specifically, the study uses data from the household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informants’ interviews. The study employed both descriptive and inferential analysis to establish determinants of the adoption of agroecological practices. A multiple linear regression model was employed to analyze the factors for the decision to use agroecological practices, using cross-sectional data from 160 randomly selected households. Thematic analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The study findings indicate that the dominant agroecological practices are the application of organic fertilizers (such as farm yard manure, composite and green manure), intercropping, and crop rotation. The results, also show income, education level of the household head, distance from homestead to the farm, training on agroecology, and land ownership was found to be associated with the implementation decision of agroecological practices by farming households. Besides, about 75% of farmers who decide to implement agroecology practices were those who had access to training support from FRN project. Based on the study findings, The Government and other stakeholders should insist more on improving training services to increase the implementation of agroecological practices. Also, the study recommends diversification of income sources on the farmers’ side by engaging in both on-farm and offfarm activities such as petty business to increase income which in turn will enable them to invest in the implementation of agroecology practices.
A multicriteria analysis of groundwater development pathways in three river basins in Sub-Saharan Africa
(Elsevier / Elsevier Ltd, 2022) Imogen Bellwood-Howard; Thompson John; Shamsudduha Mohammad; Taylor Richard G.; Mosha Devotha B.; Gebrezgi Gebrehaweria; Tarimo Andrew K.P.R.; Kashaigili Japhet J.; Nazoumou Yahaya; Ti´ekour Ouassa
Reliance on groundwater in Sub-Saharan Africa is growing and expected to rise as surface water resource variability increases under climate change. Major questions remain about how groundwater will be used, and who informs these decisions. We represent different visions of groundwater use by ‘pathways’: politically and environmentally embedded socio-technological regimes for governing and managing groundwater systems. We presented policy actors (9 sets), development and research stakeholders (4 sets), and water users (6 sets) in three river basins in Ethiopia, Niger and Tanzania with information on the social and environmental impacts of six ‘Groundwater Development Pathways’, before gathering their opinions on each, through Multicriteria Mapping (MCM). Participants preferred pathways of low-intensity use, incorporating multiple agricultural, pastoral and domestic purposes, to high-intensity single-use pathways. Water availability and environmental sustainability, including water quality, were central concerns. Participants recognised that all groundwater uses potentially impinge upon one another affecting both the quantity and quality of abstracted water. Across participant groups there was ambiguity about what the most important water use was; each expressed demands for more detailed, certain modelling data. Water users preferred community or municipal-scale management regimes, perceiving that water quality was more likely to be safeguarded by institutions at these levels, whereas policy and development actors preferred individual-scale management, viewed as more efficient in terms of operation and maintenance. We conclude that MCM, combined with more detailed modelling, can provide an effective framework for policy actors to understand other stakeholders’ perspectives on groundwater development futures, enabling equitable, inclusive decision-making and governance.
Does women’s engagement in sunflower commercialization empower them? Experience from Singida region, Tanzania
(Taylor & Francis / Routledge, 2022-05-26) Mosha Devotha B.; Jeckoniah John; Boniface Gideon
Empowering women within sunflower value chains can create significant development opportunities for them and generate benefits for their families. This paper asks whether women’s engagement in sunflower commercialization influences their levels of empowerment. The paper uses data from a 2018 study conducted by Agricultural Policy Research in Africa. A cross-sectional research design was used, and data were collected using mixed methods involving primary, qualitative, and quantitative methods as well as secondary data from the literature. A total of 600 farm household heads and 205 focus group participants (7–15) from 15 villages were selected for the study. Qualitative and quantitative data were subjected to content and econometric analysis respectively, with the help of Microsoft Excel and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences programs. The findings revealed that female household heads tend to benefit less than men from sunflower commercialization. Sunflower commercialization had a positive but insignificant influence on women’s empowerment: the study found that low levels of access to and control over productive resources resulted in low agricultural productivity, which affects empowerment levels. However, household commercialization involving all crops did have a positive and significant impact on the empowerment of women because non-cash crops were more likely to be retained by women, even when commercialized. This calls for policies that support and promote a diversified portfolio of livelihood options for women farmers in Singida region.
Farmers’ perceptions towards the implementation of agroecological practices for enhancing food availability in Singida Rural District
(Academic Journals, 2023-11-09) Kanjanja Sauda M.; Mosha Devotha Baltazary
This paper delves into the global drive to promote agroecological practices, which have been widely acknowledged for their diverse economic, social, and environmental benefits. Yet, a critical gap persists in our understanding on the impact of these practices on food availability from the perspective of farmers. Our study focuses on farmers' perceptions regarding the role of agroecological practices in enhancing food availability within Singida Rural District in Tanzania. To explore this understudied terrain, we conducted a comprehensive questionnaire survey involving 160 farming households drawn randomly from four villages. Employing a Likert scale methodology, we meticulously assessed farmers' perspectives on the implementation of various agroecological practices. Strikingly, a significant majority (64%) of respondents unequivocally recognized the pivotal contribution of agroecological practices to enhance household food availability. Nonetheless, a nuanced dichotomy emerged, nearly half of the participants (53%) expressed reservations about the perceived ease of integrating agroecological practices. This hesitancy was attributed to the challenges and labor-intensive nature associated with implementation of certain agroecology techniques. Encouragingly, our findings highlight the potential of collective efforts in mitigating labor-related concerns. In light of these insights, we advocate for targeted interventions by local government entities and agroecology stakeholders; by facilitating farmers' access to essential knowledge, skills, and resources, we can catalyze the transformative journey toward agroecology. This shift holds the promise of fostering a more sustainable food system that resonates with the needs of both present and future generations.
Contribution of agroecological practices to household food availability: a case study of Singida District
(Canadian Center of Science and Education, 2024-06-15) Kanjanja Sauda M.; Mosha Devotha B.; Haule Sylvester C.
Globally, there are urgent calls for transformation of agriculture and food systems to address food unavailability, food insecurity and environmental challenges. Agroecological practices have been promoted as one of the solutions, which have potential to address these challenges. Nonetheless, there is limited evidence regarding the question whether agroecology can indeed enhance food availability among smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, Tanzania inclusive. Thus, the study was conducted to examines how the implementation of agroecological practices contribute to achieving food availability at household level by comparing between farmers who are members of Farmer Research Network (FRN) (implementers) and non-FRN farmers (non-implementers) using a case of Singida district. The study employed a cross-sectional research design, and an integration of both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis methods. Interviews involved a total of 160 respondents who were randomly selected from household sampling frameworks. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and in-depth interviews were conducted to gather complementary data. On one hand, quantitative data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software whereby descriptive statistics and an inferential statistic (multiple linear regression) were determined. On the other hand, qualitative data were analyzed using thematic content analysis. The findings revealed, more than half (68%) and 15% of FRN farmers were in the medium and high categories of implementation of agroecological practices, contrary to non-FRN farmers, the majority (76%) were in low and none in high categories respectively. Based on alaysed data, the most common applied practices by both FRN and non-FRN farmers were: (i) the use of organic fertilizers (farm yard manure and compost manure (96%); (ii) intercropping (88%); (iii) crop rotation (82%); and integration of crop and livestock (79%). In addition, results indicate a significant association between the level of implementation of agroecological practices and food availability (p-value = 0.000). FRNs’ farmers were food secure as compared to non-FRN farmers just due to campaign and capacity building training offered to them. There is a need for a capacity development program to speed up agroecological intensification for sustainable food systems. Thus, it is very essential for public and private organizations to develop capacity building strategies or programmes to impart farmers with knowledge and skills on agroecological revolution.
Water governance in tanzania – a synthesis of legal and institutional frameworks for groundwater management in the upper great Ruaha River Catchment
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024) Mosha Devotha Baltazary
The importance of groundwater resources in buffering the effects of climate change on water scarcity and security is highly acknowledged worldwide. However, groundwater development and use can only be sustainable with a more robust policy and institutional arrangements related to water governance. The purpose of this study was to analyse the legal framework of water resource development and management in order to contribute in identifying policy constraints to sustainable groundwater resource development and management in Tanzania. The paper used information from literature reviews and data collected through qualitative methods using a case study of Usangu Plains in the Upper Great Ruaha River Catchment in Tanzania. The findings reveal that water governance institutional frameworks are well structured to provide guidelines on how water as a basic human resource can be utilised and properly managed, but most importantly, these institutional arrangements place disproportionate emphasis on groundwater. Attaining sustainable groundwater development and use requires new disclosures and narratives in water policy and law, integrating both surface and groundwater resources. The weaknesses identified in groundwater governance need to be taken on Board once, the existing water institutional frameworks open to perfection for sustainable utilisation of groundwater resources.
Agroecology issues in agricultural policy and allied science policies in Tanzania
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024) Mosha Devotha B.; Nyanda Suzan Samson; Mwaseba Dismas L.
The science and philosophy of agroecology are widely proposed as substantial aspects of the agricultural transition toward a sustainable food system and an eco-friendly environment. Yet, the extent to which agricultural and other allied policies are embedded with agroecology issues is little known, especially in African countries. This study assessed what and how agroecology narratives are integrated, interpreted, or embedded in policies, acts, and regulations of agriculture and allied sciences. A mixed methods approach was employed. The findings revealed that agroecology is not clearly narrated in these policy documents. The policies do not mention agroecology directly, but they point out some disputes or elements such as biodiversity, crop diversification, agroforestry, conservation agriculture and cropping and grazing land rotation, which are relevant for agroecology intensification. This means that in these policy documents, narratives supporting agroecology are insufficient. Thus, we recommend that taking on board policy narratives that directly support the adoption and implementation of agroecological practices is imperative.
Socioeconomic and agronomic factors influencing vegetable production in rural wards in Tabora Municipality Tanzania
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international, 2025-02-04) Kitundu Samson Charles; Mosha Devotha B.; Mlozi Malongo R. S.
The productivity of Tabora Municipality's small-scale vegetable producers is hampered by lack of understanding of market dynamics and agricultural practices. The purpose of this paper was to investigate aspects affecting the production and evaluate farmers' understanding of vegetable growing. A survey was carried out in Ndevelwa, Misha and Kabila Wards. The findings showed that 90% of the respondents agreed that soil fertility and quality were important factors to consider for growing vegetables. Four-fifths (80%), 75% and 77.5% of the respondents in Ndevelwa, Misha and Kabila Wards, respectively, followed suggested agronomic practices. Proper seed selection (51.7%) and watering (65%) were mentioned as important factors that affected vegetable production. Nine in ten (90%) of the respondents in Ndevelwa, 97.5% in Misha and 82.5% in Kabila reported to have access to agricultural extension services. Nevertheless, 60.0% of the respondents in Kabila said that the quality of the services was poor. Regarding marketing, 87.5% of the respondents looked for market pricing trends, and 99.2% of the respondents had access to market data. The commonest routes were local market places (60.8%) and wholesale (67.5%). About 70% of the respondents said that they were satisfied with vegetable pricing, and 60.8% of the respondents cited high costs as a result of supply not keeping up with demand. Agronomic practices, farm size, gender, marital status, and price satisfaction were among the important variables that influenced production. Production was adversely affected by pricing and inadequate extension services. In order to boost vegetable production in Tabora Municipality, there is a need for addressing gender inequities, improving extension services, stabilizing market pricing and promoting agronomic practices.
Farmer research networks and dissemination of agroecological knowledge and practices in Singida District of Tanzania
(2025-02-27) Athumani Hadia Mwarizo; Mosha Devotha B.; Kalungwizi Vituce J.; Mwaseba Dismas L.
The paper explores different methods used by Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) to disseminate agroecological knowledge and practices in Singida District, Tanzania. The study used crosssectional research design, using a qualitative research approach. Data were collected from 75 participants of focus group discussions, 19 key informants, 26 in-depth interviewees and personal observations. The data collected were analysed using thematic analysis, a structured method to identify patterns and themes based on the study topic. The use of natural pesticides (biopesticides), use of organic fertilizer (mainly compost), intercropping, crop rotation, mixed cropping, nine seed planting methods, Zambian hoe, soil conservation techniques (mainly mulching), timely planting as well as application of recommended spacing are common and major practices in Singida district. FRNs used farmer field schools (FFSs), village government meetings, demonstration plots, farmer-to-farmer knowledge sharing, and community groups as the main methods for disseminating agroecology knowledge and practices to farmers. These methods create a wide awareness of agroecological knowledge and practices among farmers in the study villages. It is recommended that local government authorities and development organisations should utilize FRNs to disseminate agroecological evidence-based knowledge and practices to farmers and scale up the utilization of the FRN approach to communicate and disseminate recommended agroecological and agricultural practices for sustainable farming and food systems in Tanzania.
Assessment of vegetable gardening and its contribution to household income in Tabora Municipality, Tanzania
(SCIENCEDOMAIN international., 2024-10-19) Kitundu Samson C.; Mosha Devotha B.; Mlozi Malongo R. S.
This study investigated the contribution of vegetable gardening to household income among vegetable growers in Tabora Municipality, Tanzania. Despite the potential of vegetable cultivation to improve livelihoods, many households remained reliant on limited income sources. This study aimed at ascertaining the contribution of vegetable gardening to the household income in Tabora Municipality, Tanzania. Specifically, the study identified the major vegetables grown in the area and examined the relative contribution of income from vegetable sales compared to other income sources. This study employed a cross-sectional design with a mixedmethods approach during data collection, where qualitative and quantitative data were collected. A structured questionnaire was administered to 120 respondents purposively selected from three wards: Ndevelwa, Mlisha, and Kabila. Qualitative data were gathered through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The findings revealed that in the 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 cropping seasons, slightly more than half of the respondents (N=55.3% and N- 55.5%), recognized the significant contribution of vegetable gardening to their household income. This percentage increased significantly to 80.5% in the 2023/2024 season. Notably, the income generated from vegetable gardening surpassed other household incomegenerating activities. However, the study also highlighted substantial constraints: most respondents operated on small plots of land (<0.6 acres) and frequently failed to implement recommended agronomic practices effectively. These factors limited the overall productivity and profitability of vegetable production. To enhance yields and improve household income. Furthermore, it is recommended that the Tabora Municipality, through local authorities, should provide targeted capacity-building training on best agronomic practices to vegetable growers.
Challenges of disseminating agroecological knowledge and practices: experience from farmer research networks in Singida District, Tanzania
(Science domain International, 2026-04-29) Athumani Hadia Mwarizo; Kalungwizi Vituce J.; Mosha Devotha B.; Mwaseba Dismas L.
Farmer Research Networks (FRNs) are essential for disseminating and promoting the adoption of agroecological (AE) knowledge and practices among smallholder farmers. However, many issues that restrict the efficient dissemination of AE knowledge and practices that frequently hinder FRN efforts are poorly documented. This paper examined the challenges of disseminating AE knowledge and practices faced by FRNs in Singida District in Tanzania. The study used a cross-sectional research design where data were collected at a single point in time. Qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions, key informants, and In-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data. The study findings show that the recurrent obstacles, such as resistance to change, are because most farmers are still dubious about AE practices because of firmly rooted traditional farming attitudes and the labor-intensive nature of some techniques, such as the nine-seeds hole method and compost-making. The findings revealed that FRNs face challenges in reaching all farmers due to limited access to resources like financing and transportation, and village meetings do not give enough time for in-depth instruction and hands-on demonstrations. Gender inequality and social barriers to women's involvement in decision-making and the sharing of AE knowledge are further restricted by social and cultural norms. Furthermore, the lack of expertise in new AE technologies impacts FRNs' capacity to deliver current information, highlighting the importance of ongoing tailor-made training. This study recommends that policymakers should allocate more significant resources to addressing the perceived obstacles associated with comprehensively disseminating AE knowledge and practices.
Gender disparities and power dynamics in sunflower value chains: evidence from Singida District, Tanzania
(The sub Saharan Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (SJSSH), 2025) Mosha Devotha B.
Sunflower cultivation in Tanzania, particularly in Singida District, represents a critical source of income and nutrition for smallholder farmers, with women constituting the majority of producers. Despite their significant contributions, women face systemic gender disparities in accessing production resources, extension services, and market opportunities, rooted in patriarchal norms and cultural practices. This study problematizes these inequalities by examining the roles, relationships, and power dynamics between male and female farmers in the sunflower value chain, highlighting how social and cultural barriers perpetuate unequal resource distribution and limit women’s economic empowerment. Drawing on mixed-methods data from the Agricultural Policy Research in Africa (APRA) study conducted in Iramba and Mkalama districts between 2017 and 2022, this paper employs descriptive and inferential statistical analyses to reveal significant gender gaps. For instance, chi-square tests indicate that men are significantly more likely to access improved seeds (χ² = 12.45, p < 0.01) and processing machinery (χ² = 15.67, p < 0.001) than women, while women’s land ownership is 45% lower on average (t = 3.89, p < 0.05). Qualitative findings further underscore that men dominate decision-making in marketing and income control, marginalizing women’s agency. These disparities undermine the potential of the sunflower sub-sector to foster equitable and sustainable development. Addressing these challenges requires targeted interventions, such as gendertransformative policies and community-based education programs, to promote equitable access to resources, enhance women’s participation in high-value chain nodes, and ensure inclusive benefits from sunflower commercialization.
Community aspirations and hopes on groundwater governance: qualitative insights for climate change adaptation and resilience in semi–arid Dodoma, Tanzania
(Frontiers, 2026-05-21) Mosha Devotha Baltazary; Kashaigili Joel Johaiven; Samani Patrice Lina; Kashaigili Joel Japhet; Kangile Rajab Joseph
Introduction: Aspirations and hopes play a vital role in shaping ideas about water resource management. Due to increasing climate variability and a growing population, reliance on groundwater has risen in the Dodoma Region, threatening its sustainable use. Over the years, the community has relied on indigenous knowledge (IK) and traditional methods to ensure that groundwater remains accessible and well managed for both current and future generations. Despite their importance, community aspirations, hopes, and IK regarding effective groundwater governance remain underexplored. This study examined the community’s aspirations, hopes, and IK that contribute to the sustainable management of groundwater and land resources in the context of climate change in Tanzania.Methods: The research employed a qualitative approach, including focus group discussions and interviews with key informants conducted from December 2024 to February 2025. Participants and respondents were water users and managers from community, government, and non-government organizations. Content analysis was used to group qualitative information into small, meaningful themes.Results: The community’s aspirations and hopes focus on urging the government to increase the number of both deep and shallow wells, expand water price subsidies, and strengthen pollution control initiatives to protect, conserve, and manage groundwater, ensuring equitable and inclusive access. There is a high level of “hydro-geological and biological literacy” that guides traditional decisions about groundwater exploration and site selection. The construction of the Farkwa Dam boosts hopes for economic and social progress, including the expansion of irrigated agriculture. Local water users maintain traditions for water and land care, rooted in their cultural heritage and overseen by traditional leaders, but these traditions are declining among youth. Building partnerships with communities and leaders and encouraging inclusive cooperation that respects indigenous practices are essential.
Agroecological practices and extension services in the mixed farming system of Tanzania: a review of related policies
(Agriculture and Biotechnology, 2025) Magesa Augustino Emmanuel; Shausi Gosbert Lukenku; Mosha Devotha Baltazary; Rutatora Deogratias Frederick
Agroecological practices are increasingly recognized globally for their capacity to enhance the sustainability, resilience, and productivity of agricultural systems, particularly in mixed farming systems prevalent in developing countries like Tanzania. Grounded in principles of biodiversity, ecological balance, and socio-economic equity, agroecology provides a transformative pathway for sustainable agricultural development. This review employs qualitative content analysis and comparative policy analysis to critically assess policy frameworks at the global, regional (e.g., African Union’s Agenda 2063), East African Community (EAC), and national levels (e.g., National Agriculture Policy 2013, ASDP II) that influence the adoption of agroecological practices, with a specific focus on mixed farming systems in Karatu District, Manyara Region. The findings reveal that while global and regional frameworks are broadly supportive of agroecology, national policies demonstrate significant gaps in implementation, including the absence of localized agroecological indicators, weak institutional coordination, and limited integration of sustainability principles. A major constraint identified is the inadequate role of agricultural extension services in promoting agroecological knowledge and practices; over 60% of farmers in Karatu reported minimal access to ecological extension support due to capacity shortfalls and policy misalignment. To address these challenges, the study recommends integrating agroecological indicators into national policy frameworks, strengthening extension service capacity through targeted training, mobilizing financial resources, promoting participatory approaches, and implementing land tenure and gender-inclusive reforms to enable a more effective and equitable agroecological transition in Tanzania.

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