Browsing by Author "Saria, Anasia E."

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    Impact of biofuels investment on livelihoods of the rural community in Kisarawe district
    (University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) Saria, Anasia E.
    This study assessed the impacts of biofuels investment on livelihoods of the rural community in Kisarawe District where two villages Muhaga and Mtamba were studied. Data were collected through the use of combination of the methods: households’ survey questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, direct field observation, and reviews of relevant literatures. Landsat MSS satellite images of 2000 and 2010 were used to assess land cover changes around the biofuel investment area. Data were also analysed through theme-content technique and with the help of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and findings presented through percentages, tables, graphs and charts. The findings show that about 8,211 ha (2.3 percent of the total district land area) was initially granted to Sun Biofuel (SBF) investor for biofuel plantation which was later acquired by another company, Thirty Degree East (TDE). The study revealed that during the land acquisition, the investor made several promises to the villagers. However, most of the promises were not fulfilled. It was also found that, in compensation for affected individuals, the land valuation process was not clear and it lacked transparency. Satellite image analysis revealed that the biofuel investment has caused environmental destruction in Ruvu Forest Reserve as well the new land has been opened up for cultivation around the plantation area. This study concluded that, apart from employment, biofuel investment in Kisarawe District has yet to yield the expected impacts in improving the livelihoods of local communities. As such, the study recommends that the government should ensure that land acquisition for biofuels development would be acquired through open and transparent ways after thorough sensitization and consent of host communities.