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Item Forage growth, yield and nutritional characteristics of five African foxtail ecotypes grown at Magadu dairy farm in Morogoro, Tanzania(Plants and Environment, 2021-12-31) Lutatenekwa, Dorice L.; Mtengeti, Ephraim J.; Msalya, George MThis study was conducted to assess the forage growth, yield and nutritional characteristics of five ecotypes of African foxtail (Cenchrus ciliaris) grown under the similar environmental condition at Magadu Dairy Farm (MDF), a facility of Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in Morogoro, Tanzania. The ecotypes used in the study were collected from semi-arid areas of three districts namely Kiteto (Ologoraing’ok namelock and Ologoraing’ok twanga ecotypes), Mpwapwa (Nzingangata and Orupilipili ecotypes), and Kilolo (Iramata mtandika ecotype). Each ecotype was planted in a 12 m 2 plot with plants interspacing of 0.5 m, 1.5 m space between plots and three replications. Then 30 tussocks were randomly sampled per ecotype and their plant height, tiller number, inflorescence length, leaf length and leaf mid-width were recorded. The dry matter yield and Nutritional characteristics were analysed from the harvested above-ground biomass in two quadrats of one square metre per plot at the age of six weeks from standardization cut. The results indicated significant variation (p-value<0.05) among ecotypes on the studied characteristics. Orupilipili ecotype indicated higher mean values of plant height (93.8 cm), leaf area (25.8 cm 2 ), inflorescence length (10.1 cm) and dry mater (10.35 tDMha -1 ). Ologoraing’ok namelock had the lowest growth and yield characteristics except mean tiller numbers (197.3). The lowest-yielding ecotype indicated the highest percentage of Crude Protein (21.15), Acid Detergent Fibre (31.35) and ash content (16.91) but with the lowest Neutral Detergent fibre (55.89). Correlations were significant for all pairs of traits assessed. Discriminant tests suggested close relationship between Ologoraing’ok namelock and Ologoraing’ok twanga, Nzingangata and Iramata mtandika but each ecotype indicated a significant number (>46%) of unique individuals. This study recommends further study on the ecotypes when subjected to stresses such as defoliation, salinity and droughtItem A review of plant characterization: First step towards sustainable forage production in challenging environments(African Journal of Plant Science, 2020) Lutatenekwa, Dorice Leonard; Mtengeti, Ephraim Joseph; Msalya, George Mutanihis review paper attempts to give account of how plant characterization assists the availability of information on desirable plant traits, to enhance selective breeding for environmental stresses and thus attain sustainable forage production. Plant characterization is referred to as an account for heritable characters varying from agronomical, morphological to molecular markers. It simplifies grouping of accessions, development of core collections, identification of gaps and retrieval of valuable germplasm for breeding programmes resulting in better insight about the composition of the collection and its genetic diversity. Plant characterization by morphological, physiological and agronomic traits has long been used in selective breeding. Advancement of characterization to the use of molecular markers speed up the process and permits optimal utilization of the adaptive traits harboured in all breeds for stressful environments. In countries like Tanzania, where agro-climatic conditions are challenging, technological progress is slow and market institutions are poorly developed, selecting highly adaptive local varieties is important. Knowledge from characterization of local varieties could be used to breed adaptive and resilient varieties. This will help the farmers to produce enough forage in the fast changing and stressful environmental conditionItem Gut and blood microbiota of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) reared with lettuce (Lactuca sativa) and challenged with Escherichia coli and Vibrio cholerae in aquaponic system(Elsevier, 2026-02-17) Jossefa, Angélica Adiação; Viagem,bLeonildo dos Anjo; Cerozi, Brunno da Silva; Chenyambuga, Sebastian WilsonAquaponics, a bio-integrated system that combines fish farming and vegetable cultivation, has gained significant attention due to its rapid expansion and potential for sustainable food production. In aquaponics, along with plants and fish, both beneficial and harmful microorganisms are also present. This study was conducted to assess the microbiota diversity of Nile tilapia reared with lettuce in aquaponic systems, with a focus on food safety implications. A total of 144 Nile tilapia juveniles with an average initial weight of 30.7 ± 0.03 g were randomly stocked and allocated to three treatments, each with three replicates. In treatment one, the fish were not chal lenged with any pathogenic bacteria, while in treatments two and three, they were challenged with Escherichia coli (ATCC 8739) and Vibrio cholerae (ATCC 9458), respectively. Faecal and blood samples were collected before and after challenging Nile tilapia. The diversity of microbial communities was assessed by sequencing the V1-V3 regions of the 16S rRNA gene using Illumina NextSeq2000. In total, 216 amplicon sequence variants were identified in faecal samples and 162 in blood samples, all belonging to the bacteria kingdom. Taxonomic analysis demonstrates that multiple detected genera encompass species with known pathogenicity to humans and documented association with foodborne illnesses and mortality. These included Agrobacterium, Streptococcus, Klebsiella, Clostridium, Brucella, Plesiomanas, Edwardsiella, Aeromonas, and Bacillus. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating public health considerations within an aquaponic system in which vegetables are grown together with fish, in order to reduce the risks of contamination and enhance food safety.Item Subspecific rodent taxa as the relevant host taxonomic level for mammarenavirus host specificity(Elsevier Inc., 2023) Cuypers, Laura N.; Gryseels, Sophie; Baird, Stuart J.E.; Sabuni, Christopher A.; Katakweba, Abdul S.; van den Burg, Sebastiaan R.M.; Bryja, Josef; Leirs, Herwig; de Bellocq, Joëlle GoüyMastomys natalensis-borne mammarenaviruses appear specific to subspecific M. natalensis taxa rather than to the whole species. Yet mammarenaviruses carried by M. natalensis are known to spill over and jump hosts in northern sub-Saharan Africa. Phylogeographic studies increasingly show that, like M. natalensis, small mammals in sub- Saharan Africa are often genetically structured into several subspecific taxa. Other mammarenaviruses may thus also form virus-subspecific host taxon associations. To investigate this, and if mammarenaviruses carried by M. natalensis in southern Africa are less prone to spill-over, we screened 1225 non-M. natalensis samples from Tanzania where many small mammal taxa meet. We found mammarenavirus RNA in 6 samples. Genetic/genomic characterisation confirmed they were not spill-over from M. natalensis. We detected host jumps among rodent tribe members and an association between mammarenaviruses and subspecific taxa of Mus minutoides and Grammomys surdaster, indicating host genetic structure may be crucial to understand virus distribution and host specificity.Item The prospect of biogas among small-holder dairy goat farmers in the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania(African Scholary Science Communication Tust, 2016-03) Grimsby, L.K; Gulbrandsen, L.; Eik, LO; Msalya, G.; Kifaro, G.CBiogas can be a clean cooking alternative where biomass is the dominant source of cooking energy and where feedstock for anaerobic digestion is available. By substituting woody biomass for energy, biogas may reduce local deforestation. Tanzania has more than 15.6 million goats. Dairy goats of different breeds are found in the mid- to high altitudes of the country. Population density has made firewood increasingly scarce and there are few energy alternatives in mountainous areas such as in the Uluguru Mountains. In Mgeta ward, Morogoro region, introduction of Norwegian dairy goats in the 1980s has improved livelihoods in the area. In this study, goat manure was assessed as feedstock for biogas and as fertilizer. Field work among small-holder dairy goat farmers in Mgeta was conducted to measure daily manure production, and to provide a basic model for prediction of the quantity of droppings which may be collected by farmers. Biogas and fertilizer potential from goat manure was compared to cow and pig manure. Buswell’s formula was used to calculate approximate methane yield. The results show that goat manure from Mgeta can yield 167 l∙kg Volatile Solids-1 (VS). Compared with other substrates approximate methane yield can be ranked as pig > guatemala grass > cow > goat. The average goat of 25 kg in Mgeta leaves 61 kg Total Solids (TS) droppings per year. It was estimated that 15 goats∙capita-1 would be required to meet the total cooking energy needs of small-holder households in the study location. N:P:K content in goat manure (TS) is 2:1:1, similar to cow and pig manure. Goat droppings had to be macerated to reduce particle size for anaerobic digestion. Biogas from dairy goats could be combined with the year-round irrigated horticulture production in Mgeta. Vegetable gardens in the slope below the digesters could be fertilized by gravitation with the NH4+-rich bioslurry, to save labour and increase yields.Item Effect of soybean and seaweed-based diets on growth performance, feed utilization, and gut microbiota of tilapia: a systematic review and meta-analysis(PLOS ONE, 2024-07-24) Viagem, Leonildo dos Anjo; Hakizimana, Jean Nepomuscene; Rumisha, Cyrus; Cerozi, Brunno da Silva; Misinzo, GeraldTilapia, a significant aquaculture species globally, relies heavily on feed for its production. While numerous studies have investigated the impact of soybean and seaweed-based diets on tilapia, a comprehensive understanding remains elusive. This review aimed at evaluating and synthesizing the existing literature on these diets’ effects, focusing on growth perfor- mance, feed utilization, and gut microbiota. A systematic search of databases was con- ducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and a total of 57 studies were included in the qualitative analysis and 24 in the meta-analysis. The results indicated that soybean-based diets, at a 59.4% inclu- sion level improved the Specific Growth Rate (SGR) of tilapia with an effect size of -2.14 (95% CI: -2.92, -1.37; p < 0.00001; I 2 = 99%) and did not improve the feed conversion rate (FCR), as the effect size was 1.80 (95% CI: 0.72, 2.89; p = 0.001; I 2 = 100%). For seaweed- based diets, at a 15,9% inclusion level did not improve SGR, with an effect size of -0.74 (95% CI: -1.70, 0.22; p = 0.13; I 2 = 99%), and the FCR with an effect size of -0.70 (95% CI: -1.94, 0.54; p = 0.27; I 2 = 100%). Regarding the gut microbiota, was noted a lack of studies meeting the inclusion criteria for tilapia. However, findings from studies on other farmed fishes suggested that soybean and seaweed-based diets could have diverse effects on gut microbiota composition and promote the growth of beneficial microbiota. This study sug- gests that incorporating soybean-based diets at 59.4% inclusion can improve the SGR of tilapia. Seaweed-based diets, while not demonstrating improvement in the analyzed param- eters with an inclusion level of 15.9%, have the potential to contribute to the sustainability of the aquaculture industry when incorporated at lower levels.Item Low genetic diversity and lack of genetic structure among populations of the sandfish holothuria (metriatyla) scabra on the Tanzanian coast(Taylor & Francis Group, 2023-02-27) Bugota, Valeli J.; Rumisha, CyrusThe tropical sandfish Holothuria (Metriatyla) scabra Jaeger, 1833 has been severely depleted in the Western Indian Ocean because it is easy to catch and in high demand. In response, Mainland Tanzania closed the fishery; however, the fishery remains open in the semi- autonomous islands of Zanzibar. Yet, it is unknown whether the aforementioned contrasting management measures are consistent with the genetic stock structure of the fishery. Therefore, this study analysed partial sequences (706 base pairs) of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) from four sandfish populations from Tanzania to assess the extent of genetic diversity and population structure. The populations showed low haplotype (0.17– 0.44) and nucleotide diversities (0.025–0.084%), as well as small mutation-scaled effective size (9 × 10 −4 −17 × 10 −4 ) compared to other marine macroinvertebrates from Tanzania, suggesting that the fishery has not recovered despite the ban that was imposed 16 years ago. Furthermore, Analysis of Molecular Variance (AMOVA) revealed a low and non- significant genetic differentiation index (F ST = 0.0047, p > 0.05), indicating a lack of population structure. The lack of population structure was further supported by phylogenetic analysis, which grouped together all COI haplotypes of sandfishes from both Zanzibar and Mainland Tanzania. This suggests that populations in Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar are genetically homogeneous and that Zanzibari fishers may be targeting the same stock that is protected in Mainland Tanzania. Therefore, the fishery should be managed as a single unit and management measures between Mainland Tanzania and Zanzibar should be harmonized.Item Laboratory tests revealed high contamination of raw milk sampled from selected nodes of the dairy value chain in Mbulu District, Tanzania.(Science Publishing Group, 2025-07-30) Gwandu, Magdalena; Lyimo, Charles; Mwega, Elisa; Msalya, GeorgeThis study was carried to investigate the levels and types of microbial contamination in raw milk from selected nodes of the dairy value chain in Mbulu District, northeastern, Tanzania. A total of 185 raw milk samples were collected from dairy farmers, vendors, and restaurants across four wards namely Endagikot, Imboru, Hydom, and Dongobesh. The target bacteria were Escherichia (E.) coli, Staphylococcus spp., Klebsiella (K.) pneumoniae, and Enterococcus (E.) faecalis. A total of 185 milk samples were collected from dairy farms, vendors and restaurants across four wards. Total viable bacteria count and bacterial isolates were analysed using culture, biochemical test and Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS. Contamination increased up the chain with the lowest mean bacterial load (7.78 × 103cfu/ml) in milk samples collected directly from udder and the highest (2.09 × 104cfu/ml) in farmers bulking containers. E. coli and Staphylococcus spp. were the most prevalent bacteria detected at rates of 32.1 and 17 percent respectively of total samples from the vendors as well as 18.9 and 17 percent of total samples collected directly from udder. The E. faecalis and K. pneumoniae were detected at much lower rates (3.77 and 1.89 percent respectively). The bacteria levels determined in the present study are sufficiently high to contribute to milk-borne illnesses among consumers. The findings highlight public health risks associated with poor hygiene practices, inadequate milk handling, and environmental contamination. Enhanced training for milk handlers, improved hygiene protocols and regular surveillance are recommended to ensure milk quality and safety.Item Nutritional and digestibility profile of palm kernel cake (Elaeis guineensis) produced in different regions of Tanzania(International Journal of Animal Science and Technology, 2025) Mollel, Esta Daudi; Mwangengwa, Lusekelo; Lyimo, Charles MosesThe feed depleted livestock industry gears to exploring non-conventional animal feeds. Among them is Palm kernel cake (PKC) for its potential use as animal feed hence the need for the study. PKC samples from Kigoma, Mbeya and Morogoro were collected for analysis of its nutritional composition, Van Soest fibre analysis and digestibility (invitro and in Sacco) which were done at the Tanzania veterinary Laboratory Agency (TVLA-Dar es salaam) and department of Animal, Aquaculture and Range Sciences (DAARS)- Sokoine University of Agriculture. The study found out that PKC samples from Kigoma and Mbeya had high Crude Protein and Ash (CP 19.2% and 18.1% CP) and (7.6 and 7.3% ash) but less energy (9.6 and 9.4 MJME/kgDM) and ether extract (EE 11.1% and 11.2%EE), respectively compared with those of Morogoro (12.7%CP, 5.6% Ash, 19.8% EE and 14.4 MJME/kgDM) though they had comparable Crude Fibre (CF) value (19.1-22.1). The contents of Neutral Detergent Fibre (NDF, 68.3 and 64.4%), Acid Detergent Fibre (ADF, 34.2% and 31%) for samples of Kigoma and Mbeya, were higher than those of Morogoro (48.8% NDF and 21.4% ADF) with almost similar Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL) results (6.9, 4.7 and 5.4%, respectively). Both Invitro and In Sacco digestibility were higher for samples from Mbeya (51.2 and 53.5%) respectively in comparison to samples from Kigoma (36.8 and 38.9%) and Morogoro (34.6 and 35.8%). In conclusion the study revealed a varying nutritional composition and digestibility of PKC samples collected from different regions of Tanzania which were however within the NRC recommended level hence being suitable for ruminant feeding.Item 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 MshumbusiA 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.Item Successes, constraints, and prospects for sustainable dairy cattle breeding using artificial insemination technology in Tanzania. a brief review(Frontiers Publishing Partnerships, 2026-01-26) Mbuma Janeth D.; Msalya George M.; Kashoma Isaac P.Dairy farming makes a substantial contribution to both food security and revenue generation, but because artificial insemination (AI) technology is not widely used, genetic improvement is still restricted. The present state, limitations, and potential of artificial insemination in Tanzania’s dairy industry are examined in this review. The review combines national data, project reports, and existing literature to assess the AI program’s success, identify important limitations, and highlight potential avenues for long-term, sustainable genetic advancement. For policymakers, researchers, and practitioners looking to tackle the intricate problems presented by AI in Tanzania’s dairy production industry, this paper offers insightful information by synthesizing previous studies and identifying knowledge gaps. Good mitigation techniques are essential for offering a workable route to boost AI adoption, accelerate genetic improvement, and enhance the productivity and profitability of Tanzania’s dairy sector.Item Effect of crude extracts from commiphora swynnertonii (Burtt) against selected microbes of animal health importance(Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2012) G. G. Bakari; R. A. Max; H. R. Mdegela; E. C. Phiri; M. M. MtamboItem The prevalence rates of Theileria parva and Theileria mutans in calves, adult cattle and buffalo (Syncerus caffer) in Tanzania(Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 1998-06-30) Mbassa, G. K.; Pereka, A. E.; Kweka, L. E.; Gamitwe, M. G. H.; Mlengeya, T. D. K.; Dulla, P. N.; Mgassa, M. N.; Matovelo, J. A.; Shallua, L. D.Serum samples of 133 adult cattle, 79 calves in Eastern Tanzania, 213 adult cattle in Northern, 235 adult and 156 calves from Lake Victoria basin, 30 buffaloes (Syncerus cafer) from Mkomazi Game Reserve, Northern zone and 6 buffaloes from Kisaki Open Conservation Area, Eastern zone were tested for antischizont antibodies against Theileria parva and T.mutans using indirect fluorescent antibody technique at 1:640 dilution. Antibodies were detected in 63/133, 119/213 and 203/235 adult cattle for T. parva in Eastern, Northern and Lake Victoria basin respectively. The respective positive samples for T. mutans in adult cattle in Eastern, Northern and Lake Victoria basin were 71/133, 38/213 and 184/235. Antibodies were lacking in calves from birth to four months old. Of the 36 buffalo samples none were positive for T. parva and T.mutans. T. mutans and T. parva occur in the same areas but the prevalence is less than for the former. The lack of antibodies in calves indicate lack of transfer of maternal antibodies, calves acquire antibodies through exposure to infections. The lack of antibodies in buffaloes indicates that T. parva and T. mutans are cattle parasites. Numerous Genera of ixodid ticks including Rhipicephalus and Amblyomma were found on buffaloes. In Eastern Zone calves haemogobin concentration, red and white blood cell count, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration were found to be lower in calves categorized to be of poor health compared to those apparently in good health. Prescapular lymph node length and width tended to be lower in healthy calves.Item Urban livestock farming in Tanzania: causes, effects and future prospects authors(Tanzania Veterinary Journal, 2004) Mlay, P. S.; Pereka, A. E.Urban livestock farming in Tanzania has seen a tremendous rise since the late seventies. Several factors acting singly or concurrently led to the trend we are observing today. The major driving forces are social economic, cultural and to some degree political in nature. It is commonly agreed that there are some positive and negative effects of urban livestock farming. This paper intends to give a fair discussion and analysis of the issues behind the -rapid growth of urban livestock farming (ULF) with emphasis on dairy as the most practised type of ULF. As matters stand now, urban livestock farming will continue to play a major role in the provision of the greatly needed animal products by the ever-increasing urban population. It will be selfcheating to think that we can abolish ULF by the present laws and bylaws that are hard if not impossible to implement. Therefore, there is a need of a change in attitude by the responsible authorities to recognise ULF as a fact of life and find ways of minimising the negative effects through positive engagement with all stake-holdersItem Influences of different types of fertilizers on the agronomic characteristics of chloris gayana forage in a selected area of Tanzania(AJOL, 2024) Tembo, J. A.; Msalya G. M.; Maleko D. D.; Laswai G. H.A study was undertaken from January to April 2021 in a commercial dairy farm in Iringa, Tanzania, to determine the effects of applying different types of fertilizers on the agronomic characteristics of Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass). Four types of fertilizers, namely cattle farm yard manure (CFYM), blended Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulphur, and Zinc (NPSZn), Sulphate of Ammonium (SA), and Urea, were applied in experimental plots using six different combinations in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The combinations were control (T1) with no fertilizer, CFYM alone (T2), CFYM and NPSZn (T3), NPSZn alone (T4), NPSZn with SA (T5), as well as NPSZn with Urea (T6) allocated in four replications per treatment. The physical and chemical properties of the soil in the experimental plots and the CFYM were also determined. The application of the fertilizers followed the protocols of the manufacturers. The seeds of C. gayana were broadcasted in all the experimental plots at a rate of 20 kg/ha. On the 90th day, forages in their respective sub-plots were clipped to obtain representative samples for the determination of the agronomic characteristics. Parameters considered were plant population (PP), number of tillers per plant (NTPP), stem height (SH), number of leaves per plant (NLPP), leaf length per plant (LLPP), leaf width per plant (LWPP) and stem diameter (SD). Results showed that the soil texture was primarily sandy clay loam. The soil and manure contained total N (%) of 0.15 and 1.76 respectively. The amounts of extractable P (mg/kg) in soil and manure were 3.38 and 40.35, respectively. The study showed that the plots fertilized by a combination of NPSZn and Urea (T6) produced the highest (p<0.05) mean values of PP (85.7 plants/m2), NTPP (24.5), SH (136.6 cm), NLPP (6.9), LLPP (40.9 cm), LWPP (1.5) and SD (3.1 mm) compared with other fertilizers. The control treatment (T1) with no fertilizer application had the least (p>0.05) mean values of PP (27.6 plants/m2), NTPP (5.3), SH (53.9 cm), NLPP (3.7), LLPP (23.4 cm) LWPP (0.5) and SD (1.5 mm). It is concluded that a mixture of blended NPSZn and Urea could improve the soil fertility and hence promote the growth parameters of C. gayana. Further studies to determine biomass yield and quality of the forage fertilized with different fertilizers under similar soil and environmental conditions are recommended.Item Influences of different types of fertilizers on the agronomic characteristics of chloris gayana forage in a selected area of Tanzania(TAJAS, 2024) Tembo, J. A.; Msalya G. M.; Maleko D. D.; Laswai G. H.A study was undertaken from January to April 2021 in a commercial dairy farm in Iringa, Tanzania, to determine the effects of applying different types of fertilizers on the agronomic characteristics of Chloris gayana (Rhodes grass). Four types of fertilizers, namely cattle farm yard manure (CFYM), blended Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Sulphur, and Zinc (NPSZn), Sulphate of Ammonium (SA), and Urea, were applied in experimental plots using six different combinations in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). The combinations were control (T1) with no fertilizer, CFYM alone (T2), CFYM and NPSZn (T3), NPSZn alone (T4), NPSZn with SA (T5), as well as NPSZn with Urea (T6) allocated in four replications per treatment. The physical and chemical properties of the soil in the experimental plots and the CFYM were also determined. The application of the fertilizers followed the protocols of the manufacturers. The seeds of C. gayana were broadcasted in all the experimental plots at a rate of 20 kg/ha. On the 90th day, forages in their respective sub-plots were clipped to obtain representative samples for the determination of the agronomic characteristics. Parameters considered were plant population (PP), number of tillers per plant (NTPP), stem height (SH), number of leaves per plant (NLPP), leaf length per plant (LLPP), leaf width per plant (LWPP) and stem diameter (SD). Results showed that the soil texture was primarily sandy clay loam. The soil and manure contained total N (%) of 0.15 and 1.76 respectively. The amounts of extractable P (mg/kg) in soil and manure were 3.38 and 40.35, respectively. The study showed that the plots fertilized by a combination of NPSZn and Urea (T6) produced the highest (p<0.05) mean values of PP (85.7 plants/m2), NTPP (24.5), SH (136.6 cm), NLPP (6.9), LLPP (40.9 cm), LWPP (1.5) and SD (3.1 mm) compared with other fertilizers. The control treatment (T1) with no fertilizer application had the least (p>0.05) mean values of PP (27.6 plants/m2), NTPP (5.3), SH (53.9 cm), NLPP (3.7), LLPP (23.4 cm) LWPP (0.5) and SD (1.5 mm). It is concluded that a mixture of blended NPSZn and Urea could improve the soil fertility and hence promote the growth parameters of C. gayana. Further studies to determine biomass yield and quality of the forage fertilized with different fertilizers under similar soil and environmental conditions are recommended.Item Evaluation of leucaena diversifolia as dry season feed supplement for lactating dairy cattle(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2004) Mwakilembe, Pilika AndrewA series of four experiments were conducted in sequel to evaluate the merits of Leucaena diversifolia as a dry season Iced supplement for lactating dairy cows in Mbeya region. In experiment 1, the biomass yield of Leucaena diversifolia was evaluated from 7 500 seedlings established on 1.45 ha of land at ARI-UYOLE. Parameters recorded were length of the tree (LOT), number of branches (NOB) and length of the longest branch (LOLB). Experiment 2 was a rumen metabolism study whereby botanical fractions from bean straw and maize stover were evaluated for degradability characteristics and in vitro dry matter digestibility (1VDMD) using Friesian-Boran cattle. Experiment 3 was a feeding trial in which four non-pregnant lactating Friesian cows were offered, 15, 20, 25 and 30 % of Leucaena diversifolia as a supplement in a change over arrangement to assess the effects of incremental levels of Leucaena diversifolia inclusion on in vivo digestibility of maize stover and bean straw diets. In experiment 4, eighteen lactating Friesian cows divided into three treatment groups of six cows each were used to evaluate the effects of increasing rates of offer on feed selectivity, intake and milk yield. Leucaena diversifolia was offered as a supplement to nine cows but was not given to the other nine using maize stover and bean straw basal diets. The results showed that 74.04 % of the total variability in edible material yield for Leucaena diversifolia trees was accounted for by variation in length of the tree (LOT), number of branches (NOB) and length of the longest branch (LOLB). Yields for edible material and wood in a primary cut stood at 3.5 and 10.1 tons DM/ ha, respectively. The dry matter (DM) potential fermentable contents in maize stover botanical fractions varied significantly (p<0.001) and were 814.1, 754.5, 666.5, 644.6, 622.5 and 572.8 g/kg for maize stover sheath (MS5)>maize stover leaves (MS3)> whole plant maize stover (MS1)> maize stover ear (MS4)> maize stover r-’alk (MS2)> and maize stover t-Gsels (MS6), respectively. The corresponding ranking for bean straw botanical fractions were 826.1, 626.5 and 425.4 g/kg DM for bean straw pods .'BSD2)> whole plant bean straw (WBS3)> and bean straw stem (BSS1), respectively. Dry matter degradability (48 hr incubation) ofItem Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability(Trop Drylands, 2023-11-24) Muzzo, Bashiri Iddy; Maleko, David Dawson; Thacker, Eric; Provenza, Fred D.Muzzo BI, Maleko DD, Thacker E, Provenza FD. 2023. Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: Opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability. Intl J Trop Drylands 7: 83-102. Rangelands in Tanzania play a crucial role in supporting local livelihoods and the country's economic development. However, their long-term sustainability is threatened. This review paper identifies challenges and explores opportunities to ensure their continued sustainability. Opportunities include implementing dedicated policies and regulations, using expertise in range science, leveraging technological advancements, investing in land for private ranches, using ample bushes and shrub resources for small ruminant production, and responding appropriately to high market demand for milk and meat from ruminants. Major challenges include insufficient technology and limited technical know-how, low and erratic rains leading to dry season pasture scarcity, infectious diseases and the spread of invasive species. Other challenges include conflicting interests from other land users that have led to the massive conversion of communal rangelands to croplands, and the need for areas to protect wildlife and human settlements. These challenges can be addressed by policy enforcement, strengthening pastoral organizations, fostering the growth of experts in climate-adapted forage and livestock breeding, and embracing advanced technology. Active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes and facilitating rangeland restoration can ensure the sustainable management of rangelands in Tanzania. Another promising avenue is the strategic use of locally adapted livestock species to control invasive plants, complemented by governmental enforcement of a grading system for meat and establishing a price-based quality meat market. Incorporating these prospects into rangeland management strategies can enhance the ecological sustainability and resilience of rangelands while supporting local livelihoods. Future research should focus on evaluating and implementing these strategies to promote sustainable rangeland management practices in Tanzania and elsewhere with similar environment.Item Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability(INTL J TROP DRYLANDS, 2023) Muzzo, Bashiri Iddy; Maleko, David Dawson; Thacker, Eric; Provenza, Fred DMuzzo BI, Maleko DD, Thacker E, Provenza FD. 2023. Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: Opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability. Intl J Trop Drylands 7: 83-102. Rangelands in Tanzania play a crucial role in supporting local livelihoods and the country's economic development. However, their long-term sustainability is threatened. This review paper identifies challenges and explores opportunities to ensure their continued sustainability. Opportunities include implementing dedicated policies and regulations, using expertise in range science, leveraging technological advancements, investing in land for private ranches, using ample bushes and shrub resources for small ruminant production, and responding appropriately to high market demand for milk and meat from ruminants. Major challenges include insufficient technology and limited technical know-how, low and erratic rains leading to dry season pasture scarcity, infectious diseases and the spread of invasive species. Other challenges include conflicting interests from other land users that have led to the massive conversion of communal rangelands to croplands, and the need for areas to protect wildlife and human settlements. These challenges can be addressed by policy enforcement, strengthening pastoral organizations, fostering the growth of experts in climate-adapted forage and livestock breeding, and embracing advanced technology. Active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes and facilitating rangeland restoration can ensure the sustainable management of rangelands in Tanzania. Another promising avenue is the strategic use of locally adapted livestock species to control invasive plants, complemented by governmental enforcement of a grading system for meat and establishing a price-based quality meat market. Incorporating these prospects into rangeland management strategies can enhance the ecological sustainability and resilience of rangelands while supporting local livelihoods. Future research should focus on evaluating and implementing these strategies to promote sustainable rangeland management practices in Tanzania and elsewhere with similar environment.Item Use of integrated range management practices for improving growth and dry matter yield of forage species in Mvomero district, Morogoro, Tanzania(Tanzania Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2023) Mlowe, G.D; Msalya, G.MScarcity of forage particularly during dry seasons is among the major factors which limit improved meat production from livestock in many pastoral communities in tropical countries. The scarcity is associated with low level of soil nutrients, irregularity in weather patterns and climate change. One way of making more feeds available for livestock in such times include the adoption of Integrated Range Management practices (IRM), rangelands management technique which involve a range of practices including application of manure, furrowing the land and oversowing among others. The IRM was a focus for this study which was conducted in one pastoral village namely Mela, in Mvomero District in Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Field trials were conducted based on a Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) and aimed to assess the influence of oversowing Cenchrus ciliaris on grazing lands, the effect of manure application on growth performance and dry matter yield of the specie, and the effect of furrowing on grazing land. Fifteen plots of equal sizes (16m2) were needed for this study and from which the dry matter (DM), number and height of tillers of the target specie were determined. Comparison on the study factors among the plots were done based on the One -way analysis of variance (ANOVA), results obtained from the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0. In general, growth was significant (p≤0.05) among the different plots being fast in the plots which combined manure, oversowing and furrowing followed by those which had manure and oversowing, and least were those which oversowing and furrowing was the option. The major reason for high growth in the three factors plot was with no doubt shown to be high level of IRM with three or more factors (practices) for increased fodder productivity.