Theses and Dissertations Collection

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Economic assessment of cotton pesticides marketing in Tanzania: a case of insecticides in Kwimba and Meatu districts
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2003) Mwalukasa,Essau Elly
In recent years, following liberalisation of agricultural inputs particularly for cotton, Co-operatives have severely reduced their pesticide procurements and private traders have apparently been uninterested in entering the market. This study aimed at systematically analysing the structure, conduct and performance of cotton insecticides marketing in the study area. The specific objectives of the study were firstly; to assess the cotton insecticides market structure in the study area. Secondly, to describe the cotton insecticides market conducts in the study area. Thirdly, to evaluate the performance and implications of the current cotton insecticide marketing on insecticide use in cotton and fourthly, to assess the determinants of insecticide use in smallholder cotton production, in the study area. Secondary data were collected from key institutions in the cotton sector. A survey was conducted on sample of 120-cotton growing farm households in the sample districts, and 33 crop-input traders in Mwanza, Shinyanga urban and peri-urban, and sample districts. The Structure-Conduct-Performance framework approach objective, seller concentration index, descriptive statistics and cross tabulation analytical methods were used. The results reveal that relatively very small proportion of imported cotton insecticide (14%) was channelled through private traders. However, a greater proportion was through the Cotton Development Fund (CDF) distribution channel (86%). The results also indicate that there was greater seller concentration of eighty six percent in favour of insecticides marketed through CDF. To address the second objective, descriptive statistics and cross was used to assess the current cotton insecticide market. To address the first iii tabulation were the main methods of analysis. Results indicate that price subsidy of about 50% was offered by CDF. Results also indicate that majority of private traders (93.3%) sold insecticides on cash basis at market prices. Correlation analysis was one method used to address the third objective, which indicated that regression model was estimated. The results from the model revealed that 10% increase in farm size under cotton during 2000/2001 season was significantly associated with 6.93% increase in amount of insecticides used by farmers (p<0.01), other factors held constant. It is therefore generally recommended from the study that incentives for private sector need to be enhanced. The Cotton Development Fund (CDF) should reorient its focus to facilitating active participation of private traders in cotton insecticide market. This may mean revisiting its current pricing policy of subsidising the cotton insecticide farmgate price, to enhance fair play and efficiency in cotton insecticides marketing. Emphasis on shift from small-scale cotton production to at least medium scale is one of the recommendations from this study. This may enable exploitation of economies of scale by farmers from using insecticides and other inputs in cotton production.
An assessment of access and use of information and communication technologies by rural households: case study of Mvomero district. Morogoro. Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2006) Osward,Godfrey
to assess the access and use of ICTs by rural households. .Justifiably. ICTs are believed to have a significant role in promoting social and economic development. Therefore there is a need to conduct research on ICTs in rural areas in order to analyze the extent of access and use of ICTs by rural people. A cross sectional survey was conducted in the study area to collect information on socio-economic factors which determine the use of existing ICTs infrastructures particularly telephone revealed that factors influencing use of telephone are household annual income, gender and education level. The results further showed that factors influencing intensity of telephone use as indicated by expenditure on telephone services are: number of household members, employment. The ICTs such services are more accessible to rural people than households’ phone and public telephone; while computers and internet are rarely used in rural areas. The findings show that rural people access agricultural information from television and radio. In limited occasions rural people access and convey agricultural information by telephone. Cellular phones are used as source of income by small entrepreneurs who are key providers of services in rural areas. The study also revealed that there are problems limiting use and access to ICTs sendees, such as lack of knowledge of use and function of new ICTs among others. The emphasis to undertake more research on ICT education in enhancing access of rural people to training and knowledge of use of ICTs. Also the emphasis should be made to use ICTs as radio, television, cellular phone, private telekiosk phone The overall objective of this study was services. Data were analyzed by SPSS and LIMDEP computer programmes. The results major recommendations of this study are as follows: There is essentially a need and degree of participation in community organizations, business and government iii to provide agricultural information, which is needed to solve problems pertaining to input supply and market prices of agricultural produce.
Performance of savings and credit co-operative societies and their impact on rural livelihoods: a case study of Morogoro rural and Mvomero districts, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 2004) Mwankemwa, Abdul S.A.
The study evaluated performance of savings and credit co-operative societies (SACCOS) and assessed their impact on rural livelihoods in Morogoro rural and Mvomero Districts, Tanzania. Specific objectives were; (i) to evaluate operational and financial performance of rural SACCOS, (ii) to identify factors that determine farmers’ use of SACCOS services and (iii) to assess the impact of credit on the use of modern agricultural inputs and rural livelihoods. Primary data were collected through formal survey involving 75 borrowers and 75 non-borrowers from Mgeta and Mkuyuni divisions. Secondary data were collected from informal interviews with SACCOS’ officials and clerks, UMADEP officials, supplemented by SACCOS’ financial reports. Qualitative analytical techniques employed were descriptive methods such as means, cross tabulations and frequencies. Quantitative methods included Multivariate Discriminant analysis, mean difference T-test, Pearson Chi- square and one way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The SACCOS were found to have good performance basing on annual increase in number of households served, microfinance services for farm and off-farm activities, and in facilitating other project funds. In financial aspects, the societies were able to raise capital from member shares, saving deposits and interest from credits. Regardless of some few problems, the SACCOS were able to have good credit repayment performance. Having house(s) as collateral and farmers awareness of the importance of SACCOS’ services influenced their use of financial services. Credit provided had impact on the usage of modem agricultural inputs. Borrowers used more agricultural input than non-borrowers. Despite impact on farm inputs used, the study found no significant impact on level of crop yield except for tomatoes. This was attributed to small farm plots and low level of agrochemicals used due to higher input price caused by poor infrastructure and price fluctuations. Borrowers had significantly higher income and expenditure on basic needs (except on food) than non-borrowers (p< 0.05). There was no appreciable impact on farm tools and equipment used, but credit had impact on borrowers’ types of livestock kept, some household utensils, housing materials and value of assets. A system of monitoring and evaluation as a guide for developing SACCOS in rural areas, ammendment of national land policy (1997b) and review of small scale lending regulations are recommended for development of formal financial services in rural areas.
Factors influencing the performance of marketing intermediaries in bean marketing in karagwe district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2009) Mushongi Cypridion Cyprian
This study is about the contribution of financial services on Emerging Urban Centres (EUC). The study was conducted in Mvomero District, Turiani division, in Madizini Township Authority. The interactions between the Emerging Urban Centre and a neighbouring village (rural) were used to explain rural urban linkages. These interactions are manifested through the movement of people, goods and services between the two places. The objectives of the study were to: i) Identify factors that influence emergence of urban centres, ii) Evaluate income opportunities in emerging urban centres, iii) Analyze financial flows between rural and emerging urban areas and iv) identify saving and credit services in the study area. A sample household survey was used to collect data in both rural (Kunke village) and EUC (Madizini township). A purposive and simple random sampling was used to select 150 respondents. Descriptive statistics which include percentages, frequencies, and cross tabulations were used in the data analysis. / test statistics were used to compare differences in income between rural and urban households. The findings indicated that urban residents had better access to credit services (63%) than the rural residents (45%). Farming was the main source of household income and livelihood in both urban and rural areas. It is recommended that the development practitioners should develop policy which will guide provision of affordable interest rate to customers and give priorities to those who wants to establish SACCOS in rural areas for the improvement of financial service in both rural and urban areas. When the financial services are working properly, the farming activitites are more likely to improve as well.
Financial services and emerging urban centre a case study of Turiani division, Mvomero district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture., 2013) Mushi Doroth
This study is about the contribution of financial services on Emerging Urban Centres (EUC). The study was conducted in Mvomero District, Turiani division, in Madizini Township Authority. The interactions between the Emerging Urban Centre and a neighbouring village (rural) were used to explain rural urban linkages. These interactions are manifested through the movement of people, goods and services between the two places. The objectives of the study were to: i) Identify factors that influence emergence of urban centres, ii) Evaluate income opportunities in emerging urban centres, iii) Analyze financial flows between rural and emerging urban areas and iv) identify saving and credit services in the study area. A sample household survey was used to collect data in both rural (Kunke village) and EUC (Madizini township). A purposive and simple random sampling was used to select 150 respondents. Descriptive statistics which include percentages, frequencies, and cross tabulations were used in the data analysis. / test statistics were used to compare differences in income between rural and urban households. The findings indicated that urban residents had better access to credit services (63%) than the rural residents (45%). Farming was the main source of household income and livelihood in both urban and rural areas. It is recommended that the development practitioners should develop policy which will guide provision of affordable interest rate to customers and give priorities to those who wants to establish SACCOS in rural areas for the improvement of financial service in both rural and urban areas. When the financial services are working properly, the farming activitites are more likely to improve as well.
Linking small scale farmers to market: an evaluation of agricultural marketing system development programme in arumeru district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Kulindwa, Yusuph John
The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of institutions supporting the marketing system (particularly AMSDP programme as case study) in the linking of small scale farmers to markets following market liberalization in Tanzania. Thus the study attempted to identify different factors that influence smallholder farmer’s participation to the markets. It was expected that the identification of factors and the extent to which they influence farmers’ participation to the market could assist institutions in formulation of policy intervention to stimulate participation of small scale farmers to agricultural product markets. Transaction costs originate from a number of sources which include information asymmetries, enforcement of trade contract, negotiation, and monitoring influence on farmers’ participation to the market. The study hypothesized that decision of smallholder farmers to participate to the markets is influenced by transaction costs, household characteristics and the level of market orientation. In order to test the hypothesis that these factors influence decision of smallholder farmers’ participation to the markets, logit model was estimated using survey/data from randomly selected 163 households. The results show that farming learned through extension officer and education of the household positively and significantly influenced the probability of household participation to the market in the study area. On the other hand, the distance to the market and the age of the household head were negatively and significantly associated with the probability of smallholder fanners participating to the market. Size of the farm cultivated, road condition and household size were positively related to household participation to the market. The study provides recommendations that would reduce impediments of farmers’ participation to the markets. Institutional support in provision of market information, training, and extension services, could facilitate the establishment of smallholder cooperatives (groups) and association that would empower smallholder farmers and enable them to access the markets easily. Mechanisms should be established to ensure NGOs and Local government become the main mediator of contracts between companies and small-scale farmers in cases where they are required to cultivate a certain crop, particularly non traditional crops so that both groups may benefit.
Market efficiency analysis of Jatropha value chain: case study of Monduli and Arumeru Districts
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Mahoo P.E
This study was undertaken to assess the market efficiency of Jatropha value chain by assessing the Jatropha market channels, pricing efficiency, profitability and price transmissions. The data were collected from a sample of 130 Jatropha market chain actors who were randomly selected from Monduli and Arumeru Districts using a structured questionnaire. Concentration indices were estimated to assess the market power. Market margin was used to estimate the differences between the selling and buying prices while gross margin was estimated to assess the income earned per each value chain actor. Pricing efficiency analysis was used to assess market efficiency at different nodes of the market chain while the average market shares were used to estimate the proportion of producers’ prices against the ultimate consumption and utilization level. The results showed the market structure of the Jatropha farmers is unconcentrated and that of Jatropha traders is non-competitive with concentration indices of 18% and 36% respectively. Results of profitability analysis indicated variation in gross margins with the highest margin (1 363 6I0Tshs/kg) obtained by processors while farmers’ market margin was the lowest (84Tshs/kg). Selling and buying prices at farmers’ level were highly correlated with each other(r = 0.713; p = 0.01). At the traders’ level, results indicate a strong correlation between the selling price and market margin (r = 0.941; p= 0.01). The average market shares results indicated farmers received 35%, while traders and processors received percentage shares of 21% and 43% respectively. In conclusion, the Jatropha marketing system is not efficient in Tanzania. Therefore, the study recommends that interventions to encourage Jatropha production and productivity in the country should be done and pricing behaviours and market information systems should be strengthened.
Analysis of the value chain for hides and skins in Tanzania: the case of Dodoma and Arusha regions
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Kabuje F.L
The general objective of this study was to analyse the value chain for hides and skins in order to provide an understanding of the factors affecting development of the leather industry in Tanzania. The specific objectives of the study were (i) To characterize the value chain for hides and skins from production to consumption; (ii) To examine how the chain is organized, coordinated and functioning including linkages between the key actors along the value chain; (iii) To examine efficiency in performing different operations in the value chain in terms of prices and margins obtained by different actors, and (iv) To identify the major constraints and challenges facing actors and suggest strategies for improving both linkages and efficiency of the value chain. Primary data for the study were gathered in Dodoma and Arusha regions from 84 respondents including livestock keepers, butcher and abattoir owners, hides and skins collectors, wholesalers, leather factories and manufacturer of leather goods. These data were supplemented with secondary data from the Ministry of Livestock Development, Board of External Trade and the National Bureau of Statistics. Qualitative analyses were used to describe the characteristics of the value chain actors whilst prices, marketing margins and profit margins were determined to examine efficiency at the different stages in the value chain. Prices, profit margins and marketing margins at various stages of the value chain were analysed to assess efficiency of the value chain. Generally, the hides and skins supply chain was characterized by low value addition, poor animal husbandry practices, improper skinning of animals due poor facilities and handling practices. poor preservation methods and processing technology. Most (80%) of the hides and skins were exported in raw form and the rest exported wet blue leather. With the exception of few wholesalers and processors, vertical coordination and linkage between actors was weak. Prices, marketing and profit margins were found to vary significantly between different actors along the value chain. Wholesalers obtained higher profit margins than the other actors in the value chain. The study recommends improvement of slaughtering slabs.slaughtering facilities. strengthening of producers and traders organizations and effective enforcement of laws and regulations governing hides and skins trade.
Differential livelihood portfolios along altitudinal gradients of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Haule F. D.
This study was conducted in west Kirua Vunjo division in Moshi Rural district, Kilimanjaro from late 2012 to mid 2013 to assess the altitudinal differences in livelihood endowments; evaluate the altitudinal differences in coping strategies; and evaluate factors which determine the differential livelihood portfolios in the study area. The altitudinal differences in livelihood endowments were assessed using a one way analysis of variance and the altitudinal differences in coping strategies were evaluated using a chi-square test. The factors which determine differential livelihood portfolios were evaluated using a Multinomial logit regression model. The findings in this study show that there is a significant difference in livelihood endowments between communities in the upper zone (with mean of 93 250 000 TZS) and lower zone (with mean of 60 390 000 TZS). This implies that local populations living in the upper parts of Mountain Kilimanjaro have relatively better livelihoods than those living in the lower parts. However, the difference in livelihood endowments between difference was observed between the middle and the upper altitudes. The dependence on government aid was found to be a dominant coping strategy in the lower altitude, while the use of alternative crops as well as short rains were more dominant in the upper altitude. These results imply that, the households in the lower altitude are more vulnerable to disasters such as drought, floods, crops pests and diseases than are the found to have positive influence on livelihood portfolios. The presence of various institutions was also found to positively influence livelihood portfolios. The study recommends for an establishment of modern irrigation network system so as to households in the upper altitude. Also household characteristics and altitude were the lower and the middle altitudes was not statistically significant while a sligh difference was observed between the middle and the upper altitudes. The dependence on government aid was found to be a dominant coping strategy in the lower altitude, while the use of alternative crops as well as short rains were more dominant in the upper altitude. These results imply that, the households in the lower altitude are more vulnerable to disasters such as drought, floods, crops pests and diseases than are the found to have positive influence on livelihood portfolios. The presence of various institutions was also found to positively influence livelihood portfolios. The study recommends for an establishment of modern irrigation network system so as to households in the upper altitude. Also household characteristics and altitude were found to have positive influence on livelihood portfolios. The presence of various institutions was also found to positively influence livelihood portfolios. The study recommends for an establishment of modern irrigation network system so as to minimize drought borne problems, and the establishment of risk insurance so that farmers can join and get compensation in case ofshocks (drought, floods, etc).
The role of on-farm processing in generating farmers' income: the case of oilseeds in Kongvva District, Dodoma Region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2006) Daudi ,P.N
On-farm processing of agricultural products like oilseeds is becoming more important in the economies of most developing countries like Tanzania mainly due to declining and fluctuating prices of raw products in the domestic and world markets. This study aims to illustrate the potential of on-farm processing in increasing farmer’s income in developing economies using sunflower in Kongwa district as a case. Specifically the study determines relative profit earned by farmers from selling raw sunflower and estimates how much additional income is generated after introducing on-farm processing. Primary data were collected through a cross section survey of 120 fanners using a structured questionnaire. Descriptive analyses were used to describe the respondents’ characteristics. Gross margin analysis was used to estimate income generated from selling raw produce and that from processed produce. Paired Sample T-test was used to compare means of income generated by farmers before and after processing sunflower. Sunflower oil and seedcakes are the two products into which sunflower in the study area is processed .The results show that, on average the welfare of fanners increased by Tshs 121.63/kg of sunflower when on-farm processing is introduced in the sector. Comparison of means using Paired Sample T-Test indicated that farmers’ profit before and after processing sunflower were highly statistically significant at 1% level (p<0.01), confirming the hypotheses that the income generated by farmers from raw sunflower differ significantly from that obtained by selling processed sunflower. The study also found that there are several problems that hinder prosperity of on- farm processing in the study area. These include lack of reliable markets, few processing facilities/machines, low oil content seed varieties, poor transport, poor packing facilities and import competition. This case study clearly suggests that on-farm processing has important role in generating considerable income and hence in alleviating rural poverty. The results also support the notion that on-farm processing may contribute towards satisfying some of the objectives of an effective rural development agenda. This study recommends that the government should introducc/expand on -farm processing in areas growing oilseed crops.
The contribution of microfinance on livelihood development of the people living with HIV/AIDS (plwhas) cases of caritas-Dar es salaam
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Charles, J. S
Proponents of microfinance often state that its primary purpose is to provide investment capital for micro-enterprise development so that clients can grow their income and assets, smoothen their consumption, manage their risks better and enjoy an improved livelihood. A complementary microfinance strategy is to assist clients to protect their income and assets from the impact of crisis events such as AIDS, natural disasters or conflict. Tanzania being one of the country found in sub-Saharan Africa faces a serious AIDS epidemic and the people most at risk - the poor in general, and poor women in particular - are also target groups for microfinance initiatives. MFIs in Tanzania cannot ignore the reality of HIV/AIDS given the impact it does and will continue to have on their clients. This unique characteristic of the epidemic has been treated as an adverse condition, limiting the households' ability and willingness to react early. However, with a properly designed policy response. the 5-7 years between the HlV-infliction and the height of AIDS can be utilized to reduce the economic vulnerability of the HIV-afflicted households. The primary aim is to limit the negative coping strategies (reduced food consumption, use of savings and sale of assets) and to reinforce the positive coping strategies (income diversification) of the households. This step will potentially avoid economic collapse of the households due to too much strain in the worst stages of the illness. Financing the HIV/AIDS inflicted clients via microfinance is the most viable option, as the informal financial sector is unsustainable and the formal sector is out-of-reach for this high-risk group. The sustainability of the microfinance programs can be mitigated by transferring resources from the non-AIDS population in the form of savings. This research paper attempts to describe ways that microfinance Institutions (MFIs) in Tanzania can assist their clients to cope with the impact of HIV/AIDS when struggling to boost their business in the cause of fighting poverty and improving their livelihood.
Evaluation of farmers participation in oilseeds value addition and implication on their income: a case of sunflower in Kilosa
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Abdallah, G. F
This study aimed at evaluating farmers participation in the value addition to oilseeds and its implication on their income with special emphasis on sunflower. The general objective was to increase production and income generation through value addition in the rural sunflower potential areas of Tanzania. Specifically the study aimed to: assess processing capacity and utilization, identify factors influencing farmer participation in value addition, describe marketing channels of fanner value added sunflower, describe oil millers’ constraints and assess the change in value of sunflower produce due to processing. Structured questionnaires were used to collect primary data from purposefully selected 205 respondents: 100 participating, 100 non participating farmers and five oil millers from eight villages. Discussions and participatory observations methods were also used. The logit model was estimated using data from 200 farmers to test the hypothesis that socio-economic and institutional factors influence fanner participation in value addition. The results indicate that milling capacity is about 11 280 kg per day of which only about 32.3% is utilized at peak period and about 14.3% when sunflower is scarce. Processed sunflower increased in value by about 62.7% and most of the products were sold in the village. Education and price had significant positive influences while inadequate knowledge, low household income and poor market information had significant negative influence. In order to improve value addition there should be effective fanners involvement in the process of imparting knowledge to them. Reliable market information system countrywide which can effectively connects producers and buyers, electricity and rural road network need as well to be in place.
Economic assessment of niche market arrangements in the fruit and vegetable value Chain in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Goodluck,Annette
The main objective of this study is to create an understanding of the existing niche market arrangements for high value products and to determine how small scale fanners can tap into and sustain the niche markets channels. The study specifically assessed niche market requirements for fruits and vegetables and the institutional arrangements that develop and sustain trade relations between buyers and sellers. The study also analysed the effects of transaction costs on market arrangements, linkages and relationship among traders, the benefits of complying with the standards and factors affecting such benefits. Both primaiy and secondary data were collected. Primary data was collected through questionnaires which were administered to the niche markets, niche market suppliers (NMS) and the open market sellers (OMS) through stratified simple random sampling technique with proportionate allocation. Secondary data was collected from niche markets. By using SPSS descriptive statistics analysed the data. Qualitative method using structural theoretical analysis and quantitative methods using t-test and OLS regression were used as tools for analysing the objectives. The study found out that niche markets demanded high quality, mature, colourful and big but uniform size products. To ensure they obtain such quality products niche markets were found working on contractual basis with NMS and pay visits to where NMS source the vegetables. Most niche markets paid the NMS on credit basis. The study found out that selling vegetables to the niche markets generates more profit than selling in the open markets while NMS performing other businesses than fruits and vegetables earn lower profit margins. To earn higher profit margins the study recommended that farmers and NMS should trade directly with niche markets and specialise in the fruit and vegetable business respectively. The government, financial institutions and SACCOS should finance these farmers especially those working on credit basis with niche markets.
The role of intermediary microfinance institutions in providing financial services in rural areas
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Msemwa,Cornel
Microfinance is access to financial' services by poor households. The essence of microfinance is uncollateralized loans to borrowers who have not a constant source of income from income generating activity or from a wage job. Microfinance can help small farmers and the self-employed individuals who cannot or will not post standard physical collateral such as a mortgage or real estate. In fact, lenders may not accept collateral for small loans since the cost of seizure and sale may exceed the debt owed. Lack of collateral, however, increases the costs for lenders to judge risk and to enforce repayment (Nagarajan and Meyer, 1995). Microfinance aims to provide financial services to those who do not have the possibility to obtain them from the informal and the formal financial markets. The formal financial sector (banks and other financial institutions) is largely urban-based and organized primarily to meet the financial needs of the modern sector. Many MFI clients do not have any experience with formal banks, or do not qualify for services (lack of collateral and lack of business license). For others, the next bank is simply too far away. Informal financial markets arc ubiquitous; they are generally characterized by personal relationships,, ease of access, simple procedures, rapid transactions, and flexible size and terms of loans. However, not all households have access to informal money sources. Even close family members or good friends are often reluctant to lend money. Moreover, the amounts of money available from friends and relatives are often too smallii to be used as a business investment. Of the various services offered by micro-finance institutions, clients mainly use credit services; savings and advisory services, including tiaining. aic also quite frequently used. Formal banks lend to operate in urban areas leaving rural areas short of sources of finance. This situation causes the emergence of SACCOS as an alternative aiming at filling the gap left by the formal financial providers in rural areas. 1 his research paper highlights the operation of intermediary microfinance institutions in Mbcya region which arc in the partnership with CRDB Microfinance Company Limited. The study is focused on the provision of microfinance services in rural areas. It includes the challenges and the alternative solutions to solve them. The information used in this research paper was collected by conducting physical visit to the selected intermediary microfinance institutions which are working in partnership with CRDB Microfinance hub at CRDB Bank Mbcya branch. The source of information was from monthly report of the microfinance institutions, and focus group discussions with managerial team that were held during the visit. Also some information was collected from Microfinance office at the hub. During the study, it was observed that the main challenges faced by these intermediary microfinance institutions included; lack of innovation and creativity to come up with reliable and relevant products and services to the clients, technical know-how of MFIs staff was still low, working on voluntary basis which could in long run undermine theiii morale of MFIs staffs, and weak MFIs outreach. The paper stipulates some of alternative solutions to improve the situation of these microfinance institutions.
Microenterprise finance in Tanzania: case study and policy design analyses
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2001) Chiduo C. M .P
The purpose of this study was to assess the status and provision of micro-finance services in Tanzania and suggest necessary improvements in national microfinance policies and design of micro-finance programmes. Specific objectives of the study were to (1) assess the status and provision of micro-finance services in Tanzania basing on secondary information and analyses of selected case studies, (2) evaluate the status of accessibility to micro-finance (credit) of selected MEs in Dar es Salaam region, (3) determine the role of credit in micro-enterprises performance in terms of changes in employment creation and income generation, (4) analyse factors which determine performance of micro-enterprises, and (5) following achievement of the above objectives, recommend necessary improvements in the design of national micro-finance policies and individual programmes. Data for the study were collected from various primary and secondary sources including, The Planning Commission, Vice President’s Office, Bank of Tanzania (BOT), and National Micro-finance Bank (NMB). More data were collected through MFI and ME level surveys from PRIDE Tanzania, Presidential Trust Fund for Self Reliance (PTF), Huduma Ya Maendeleo Ltd (HYM) and their clients in Dar- es-Salaam region. Major tools of analyses for the study were descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions. Results of the study confirmed that micro-finance programmes operated by the MFIs in the study areas have been designed basing on policies enshrined in the New Micro-finance Approach such policies have contributed significantly to financial successes in many parts of the World. They include: emphasis on group liability in lieu of formal collateral; charging of commercial interest rates instead of subsidized rates, effecting intensive loan collection, and demanding contributions towards insurance funds. Micro-enterprises studied have contributed substantially to livelihood of families of the micro- enterprise owners. Access of MEs to capital improves income generation and labour employment capacity of ME although only to a small degree. Capital has also enabled MEs to operate more smoothly and more efficiently. Recommendations of the study for policy relate to improvements in performance of the micro-enterprise sector through provision of reasonable amounts of start-up capital, and, provision of business management and marketing training, for the purpose of assisting ME’s growth and development into the formal sector. It is also recommended that, activities of MFI should be regulated through a micro-finance board that shall develop and promote rules and regulations for self-guarding interest of the various stakeholders in the micro-finance sub-sector.
Assessment of food market structures and their implication to household food security in Rufiji district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Massawe, Samwel
This study analyzes food market structure and its implication to household food security in Rufiji district with particular emphasis on Rufiji Demographic Surveillance System (RDSS) area. Specifically, the study analyzed existing food market structures in terms of number and size of marketing agents and marketing channels for major food products in Rufiji district; analyzed market efficiency of food products in terms of barrier to entry, vertical integration and market transparency; derived the implication of existing market structures and efficiency in terms of household food sufficiency; and proposed policy measures for addressing food insecurity in Rufiji district. A cross sectional single-visit survey that included randomly selected representative samples of 153 farmers and 66 food traders residing in RDSS area was conducted in February 2006. Pre-tested questionnaires were used to interview the sampled farmers and food traders selected so as to capture issues of food production and marketing in the area. The results of analysis revealed that (i) production of food crops for households with food deficit was low compared to households with food surplus; (ii) more than 90% of the households accessed most of their food items from food retail markets; (iii) in many areas food markets were concentrated with few traders who operate under diseconomies of scale; (iv) the entry major barrier faced by food traders is lack of access to capital; (vi) traders who integrate vertically offered processed food products at lower price; and (vii) correlation analysis between marketing margin and selling price of food products showed that changes in food prices were passed by traders from one marketing channel to another without significantly increasing their marketing margins. Based on the findings, the study recommended that (i) Food crop production should beiii increased by using appropriate modem technologies such as fertilizers, tractors and improved seeds to enable farmers to be food self-sufficient and at the same time increase marketed surplus; (ii) Traders should be sensitized by local government through district cooperative officers to form Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOS) as an alternative to formal banks; (iii) The local authority in collaboration with development partners in the district should adopt the approach used by Rufiji Demographic Surveillance System (RDSS) to collect market information from identified locations in each month so as to monitor movement of food prices over time and space in order to improve district market information system.
Operational partnership facing challenges with commercial banks: microfinance the case of Hembeti and Turiani saccos/CRDB partnership
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Kingazi Monica M.
Financing the poor is expensive than commercial banking due to transactions and administration cost. Loan officers have to travel to remote areas to give loans and other services. The problem is aggravated further by the fact that poor people have only small sums to save which limit the banks' economic opportunities. Recently, Microfinance Company initiated efforts to assist the poor by creating awareness on the borrowing procedures. This situatiomattracted Microfinance Industries (MFIs) to go into partnership with commercial financial institutions. The lending programme appears to produce tangible benefits and does not distort the process of financial intermediation between micro savers and micro borrowers' survivor. The purpose of this case was to determine the operational challenges facing the MFIs partnership with commercial banks. Two SACCOS namely Hembeti and Turiani were used as case studies. The data were gathered through participating in the SACCOS general meetings and interviews with leaders and other members. The results narrate several challenges which face the SACCOS. For the case of Hembeti SACCOS, paddy storage was a problem as all respondents mentioned shortage of godowns. Farm input costs to both SACCOS was mentioned by more than 90% of the respondents as prohibitively high to the extent of compromising SACCOS members from effective farming activities. Education is an important component for the SACCOS management to manage business and financial aspect as organization grow. This study has found that 55% of Hembeti SACCOS leaders had primary school education different from their counterpart Turiani SACCOS with 92% of its management members with secondary school education and 8% being universityiii graduate. Furthermore, the 81% and 99% of Hcmbcti and Turiani borrowers respectively used their loans as planned and had significantly reduced credit risk. Therefore there is need for MFIs continue plans to build a vibrant market of microfinance services by setting fair pricing and profit levels. Need for micro credit to expand entrepreneurial activities is a very important aspect. The study recommends that MFI management should posses the necessary skills that would lead to implementation of range of financial services and policies that support the farmers in different matters. Adherence to agreed ethics and the general code of conducts shall be taken as necessary.
Evaluating economic impact of credit to small-scale farmers: a case study of Turiani division, Morogoro
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2008) Sipira, Goodluck Loishiro Mellau
The study of evaluating economic impact of credit to small scale farmers was carried out in Turiani division. Specifically the study aimed at evaluating impact of that credit on use of modem agricultural inputs, impact of credit to smallholders’ livelihood and the performance of savings and credit cooperative societies. Both purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used in the sampling process. Purposive technique was used to select the area of study and target population relevant to the study. Six groups of beneficiaries each containing 5-20 members were randomly selected for the study. Equal number of non-beneficiaries was purposively selected from six villages. Therefore a total of 36 borrowers were selected and equal number of non-beneficiaries was selected from six villages of Turiani division. The sampling unit comprised of 36 beneficiaries and 36 non-beneficiaries. These villages were purposively selected due to easy accessibility and the fact that they have many farmers who were using SACCOS services. After the study, results revealed that there is a positive impact in terms of farmers’ use of modem and purchased agricultural inputs, credit on smallholder farmers livelihood and the performance of savings and credit and cooperative societies. The findings from this study will assist the government and other MFIs to formulate procedures to design institutional frameworks for improving credit services to small- scale farmers. Furthermore, the findings of this study will also assist private and public sector to enhance the ability of poor farmer to access credit and consequently improve their living standards through increased earning from their agricultural activities.
Farmers’ perception and adaptation to climate variability in selected districts of Morogoro region, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) Daninga, Phillip Daniel
The thrust of this study was to discern perceptions of rural people about climate variations and assess their ability to adapt to the changes accordingly. The specific objectives were to: (i) assess farmers’ perception about climate change indicators affecting agriculture, (ii) analyze micro-level climate change impacts facing farmers on production systems, (iii) analyse farmers’ adaptation to effects of climate change on production systems, and (iv) assess adequacy of off-farm coping strategies in reducing livelihood risks associated with climate variability. The data for this study were collected through household interviews. The questionnaires was administered to a sample of 240 farming households from six selected villages, three from Kilosa District, two from Morogoro rural and one from Mvomero District. Data were analysed using descriptive and quantitative methods. As perceived by farmers, temperature, rainfall intensity and sunshine intensity were mentioned by most farmers as among the major indicators having great impact on climate variability and change. The study results showed that farmers’ awareness about climate variations is high and that production systems of farmers have been highly impacted due to prolonged droughts, dry spell, untimely rains and changes in rainfall seasons. The results showed that most people in rural areas still do not know what the major agents of climate change are. However, the rural farmers have some knowledge and capacity in trying to adapt and cope to the climate changes although the capacities to deal with the climatic variability are still low. Consequently it is recommended that effective policies must be formulated to address adaptation strategies that focus more on access to information, credit, extension services and strengthening social networks through farmer to farmer extension. Additional actors such as the private sector, NGOs, and the media should be more involved in promoting the adaptation process.
An economic assessment of invasive shrubs and grasses on pastoral grazinglands of ruhaama county, Uganda.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2010) Kagwa, Tugeineyo Apollo
The need to achieve improved and sustainable range and grazingland conditions is an ideal to meet pastoralists income in the pastoral economy. Range and grazinglands of Uganda and Ntungamo district in particular, are of great significance to livestock production and pastoral economy. Rangelands of Uganda on which grazing activities are generally based, support about 90% of the national cattle population. However, massive shrub/grass invasion appears to be. causing severe environmental and economic loss to the pastoral economy. Based on this ground, the study was conducted in pastoral communities of Ruhaama county to assess economic effects of invasive shrubs and grasses onto cattle rearing and pastoralists income. A hundred twenty pastoral households were surveyed, sixty of which were grazing on cleared farms and the other sixty grazing on bushy farms. Data was analysed using both qualitative and quantitative techniques under Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) and excel computer programs. Binary logistic regression and gross margin techniques were used to evaluate shrub effects, pastoralists income, production efficiency and profitability respectively. The household obtained gross margin of Ush 5 822 052 on cleared farms while on bushy farms was Ush 1 655 418 per annum. The TR/TVC ratio of 2.5 on cleared farms was considered desirable and economically efficient given a minimum level of variable inputs in farm improvement compared to 1.6 on bushy farms. It is recommended in this dissertation that there is a need to have more comprehensive research on the real magnitude of environmental and economic losses caused by shrub encroachment to cattle production and national economy as whole. There is also a need to obtain detailed information on causative factors of shrub/grass invasion and pastoralists to establish alternative sources of income to improve their livelihood and farms other than over depending on cattle as main source of income.

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