College of Agricultural Sciences and Fisheries Technology

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Accessibility and use of nutrition information in addressing underfive child malnutrition in Morogoro Urban, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2002) Wanyenda Leonard, Chilimo
This study was undertaken to examine the access to and use of nutrition information in addressing the problem of malnutrition in Morogoro urban district Tanzania. The study investigated the Maternal and Child Health clinics (MCH) nutrition information delivery systems; variables that determine accessibility and use of information; extent of the use of nutrition information in addressing malnutrition and the relationship between the information that mothers have and the nutritional status of their children. Survey research method was used for data collection whereby questionnaires and face-to-face interviews were used for data collection. The study found that although the MCH health and nutrition education sessions are an important aspect in disseminating nutrition information to mothers, these sessions are seldom conducted and the attendance of mothers to these sessions is poor; awareness of mothers concerning different nutritional aspects is still low due to lack of information; and education is the most important variable that determines use and access to nutrition information. The study concludes that: Access to reliable nutritional information is an important aspect in addressing child malnutrition and therefore efforts should be made to ensure that mothers have access to adequate and reliable nutritional information. The study recommends the establishment of information units within the MCH clinics; frequent organization of nutrition seminars for mothers; and that nutrition information providers in MCH clinics should pay more attention to the less educated women.
Adsorption of nitrate and chloride in some Tanzania soils dominant in allophanic and kaolinitic clays
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1978) Parmar, Kokila Hasmukh
Nitrate and chloride adsorption in some virgin Tanzanian soil dominant in allophanic (x-ray amorphous) and kaolinitic clays as affected by the electrolyte (equilibrating solution) concentration, pH and anionic composition (complementary ion effect) were investigated. The adsorption of both N03 and C1 (in both leached and unleached samples) in all the solid increased with increasing electrolyte concentration. A transition from negative absorption of both anions at lower concentration to positive adsorption at higher concentration was observed in nearly all the soils. The Freundliah adsorption isotherm model was suitable to N03 adsorption in all and C1 adsorption in some of the soils. Description studies revealed that the amount of C1 desorbed increased with the increasing concentration of N03 in the electrolyte and on the colloidal surfaces. The N03 ion was found to be a better extractant of C1 than the S04 ion which in turn was better than the 0H ion. Adsorption of N03 (except in two soils) and C1 in all the soils increased with increasing pH of the electrolyte solution. This was contrary to the usual observation that anion adsorption increases with decreasing electrolyte pH. Surface preference (anionic competition) study revealed that the soils preferred N03 over C1. The adsorption of N03 increased in the presence of C1 in the mixture and vice versa. Destruction of the soil organic matter prior to equilibration with the electrolyte solutions of different pH values increased the magnitude of N03 adsorption at pH 3.3 and 6.0. However, the adsorption of C1 was decreased by a similar treatment.
Agriculture development in the coffee-banana zone of Uganda: a linear programming approach.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1971) Hall, Malcom
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, University of East Africa, Department of Agriculture, 1971. The thesis is concerned with aspect of the agricultural development problem in the main robusta coffee growing area of Southern Uganda, an area of small holding agriculture which has been termed the coffee banana zone. Part One of the thesis examines the physical parameters of the zone and also the economic social, technical and institutional setting of its agricultural development problems. The second part considers details of data collection and planning methodology as well as presenting the results of the planning exercises and their policy implications for research extension and agricultural development planning. The basis of the zonal development problems (Chapter 3 and 9) is identified as the need to achieve immediate increases in agricultural production in order to facilitate the realization of longer term national aspirations involving the diversification of the general economy. The initially rapid development of the agricultural sector of the zonal economy is described in chapter 4. Cotton was introduced at the beginning of the century and first this crop and later Robusta coffee was integrated into the small holding economy. Coffee prices began to decline in the mid 1950s, but production has continued to increase. Another aspect of the problem concerns the effects of urbanization and rapid population growth, together with the slow growth of non-agricultural employment opportunities. The development of agriculture will almost certainly occur within the existing framework of small holding agriculture (Chapter 7 and 11). Chapter 5 describes the main characteristics of this type of farming illustrating the description of with empirical data gathered during the field survey and from the results of the 1963 national agricultural census. The structure of the government services connected with agriculture and the major improvement approaches which they are pursuing are discussed in Chapter 7 and an evaluation of technical economic research strategy is contained in Chapter 6. Current approaches to agricultural development planning are analysed in chapter 9. These approaches tend to be based on general improvement policies concerning better a husbandry and higher fields derived without any formal reference to relative costs and returns in either private or social terms. By analyzing the differences between the two equilibrium supply positions, policies which can stimulate the desired resources allocation can be evolved (Chapter 10). The phasing of such changes could be aided by utilizing of such changes could be aided by utilizing a multi period planning model of the type described in chapters 11 and 12. While retaining reservations about the details of the planning approach, the models reveal a current misallocation of resources (Chapter 10 and 13). Economically desirable policy adjustments indicated by the planning models and their implications for research and extension orientation are discussed and further investigations suggested.
Application of nitrogen and irrigation to pasture to enhance dry season cattle production in Uganda.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1970) Tiharuhondi, Enos Robin
This study was initiated to ascertain the role of fertilizer nitrogen and/or supplemental irrigation in bridging the dry season shortage gap. Past research on Uganda pastures noted that this has mainly been on species introduced from outside the country and selection from local and introduced species and varieties for adaptation to different ecological zones under various management practices. The role of fertilizer in pasture production has also been reviewed as well as the role of water in the life of the land. Lastly a brief review has been made of the methods of measuring pasture output. The experiment was conducted at Makerere University Farm, Kabanyolo. The climate at Kabanyolo is classified as moist tropical. Annual rainfall is about 51.2 in with two peaks in April and November and two lows in January and July. The upland cultivated soils of Kabanyolo have been described as latosols or ferrallitic soils. A split plot design was employed, the main plots being for irrigation and no irrigation, and the split pots for the four levels of nitrogen. Nitrogen, calcium ammonium nitrate, potash and phosphate were applied. For irrigation a sprinkler system was used. The grazing stock included yearling ¾ Jersey ¼ Nganda crossbred heifers (first year) and yearling ¾-Jersey-1/4-Nganda crossbred steers (2nd year). The first grazing cycle of each year was used for conditioning the animals. Animals were weighed before entering the first replicate and when they completed the fifth replicate. Herbage samples were taken for yield estimation and chemical analyses. Soil samples were taken for moisture and chemical analyses. Statistical analysis using t test for the average moisture percentages of the irrigated and non-irrigated treatments for one year of recording showed that irrigated plots had higher soil moisture content than the non-irrigated plots. Generally the experimental treatments had no significant effects, diminutive or incremental, on the constitution of these nutrients. In both seasons Herbage yields increased as the level of N-fertilization increased, and with irrigation where N was applied. Irrigation had no significant effect on crude protein composition during the dry seasons but had a significant lowering effect during the wet seasons. The crude fibre composition in herbage was not influenced by irrigation but was significantly reduced by fertilizer nitrogen in all seasons. Neither season nor level of N nor irrigation enhanced the accumulation of NO3-N in herbage to a minimum level of CO.20% reported as toxic to livestock. The stocking rate increased with increasing levels of N in both irrigated and non-irrigated treatments. It was evident from the study that a combination of high levels of N with irrigation was able to maintain a steady production of large quantities of herbage yields declined progressively.
Assessment of reef fish biomass and density in the Dar es Salaam marine reserves, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Julius, Pagu
The Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves systems (DMRs) comprise of the North Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves systems (NDMRs) with General Management Plan (GMP) and the South Dar es Salaam Marine Reserves systems (NDMRs) without a GMP. This study was aimed at determining the effectiveness of the GMP in the conservation of coral reef ecosystem by assessing reef fish biomass, density and coral cover. Sampling was conducted from August, 2014 to April, 2015. Line Intercept Transect (LIT) was used to characterize benthic cover and Underwater Visual Census (UVC) was used to assess reef fish abundance and biomass. The findings showed that both fish density and fish biomass in NDMRs was significantly higher than SDMRs (Mann-Whitney P=0.0004). Population size structure for Juvenile fish had no significant difference between the sites (Wilcoxon matched-pairs test, P = 0.4721). Recruit fish in NDMRs has significantly higher density than SDMRs (Wilcoxon matched-pairs test, P < 0.0001). Regarding adult fish, NDMRs has significantly higher mean size than SDMRs (Wilcoxon matched-pairs test, P < 0.0001). Species diversity index was significantly higher in the NDMR (Shanon Diversity Index (H´) = 4.323) than SDMRs (H´ = 3.227). Fish-biomass varied significantly for the three seasons in the NDMR (Hc, P < 0.0001) and for SDMRs fish biomass was significantly difference for the three seasons (Hc, P < 0.0020). Fish density was highly correlated with coral cover for both NDMRs and SDMRs (r = 0.96). This study has revealed the effectiveness of GMP in conserving coral reef ecosystem in the NDMRs and call for the urgent preparation of GMP for the SDMRs.
Assessment of the effects of aspilia mossambicensis and azadirachta indica in controlling prolific breeding in farmed Nile Tilapia (oreochromis niloticus linnaeus, 1758)
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2019) Kapinga, Imani
There is growing demand of fish for food as the world population is expected to reach more than nine billion people by 2050 yet fish production from capture fishery has stagnated at 90 million tonnes since the late 1980s (UN 2017,FAO 2018). Therefore, further increase in global fish production is expected from aquaculture which is currently the fastest growing animal protein production system. Nile Tilapia, Oreochromis niliticusis the second (next to carp) most important finfish species cultured worldwide in terms of production. This is due to its hardiness, tolerance to varying degrees of environmental factors, high resistance to diseases and wide consumer acceptability. Despite these attributes, smallholder tilapia farming in Tanzania is constrained by pond over-crowding due to early maturation and prolific breeding often leading to poor water quality, increased competition for food, oxygen and space, as well as diversion of energy from somatic growth. Use of synthetic hormones to produce all-monosex is the most widely used technique to control the prolific breeding. Nevertheless, hormonal sex reversal in Tanzania is limited by its high costs, lack of skills and hormone unavailability. Therefore, this study assessed suitability of two medicinal plants Aspilia mossambicensis and Azadirachta indica in controlling breeding of Nile tilapia. Phtytochemical screening of Aspilia mossambicensis and Azadirachta indica leaf powders showed presence of two phytocompunds namely alkaloids and flavonoids which are known for their antifertility properties. The phytocompunds are are structurally or functionally similar to sex hormones capable of interfering reproduction in fish. Dietary inclusion of leaf powder from the two plants reduced prolific breeding by inducing histological alterations fish gonads. There was also a shift of sex ratio in favour of males. The reduction was higher content of antifertility phytocompounds in the former. Furthermore, growth and feed utilization was reduced at high doses whereas survival and haematogical parameters were improved. Therefore, dietary inclusion of 2.0g kg-1 and 4.0 g kg-1 of Azadirachta indica and Aspilia mossambicensis leaf powders. Respectively can be used by smallholder farmers to reduce prolific breeding of Nile Tilapia.
Basic density of the wood from Eucalyptus species grown in Rwanda
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1982) Gashumba, Eugene
Basic density of the wood from Eucalyptus matidenii, Eucalyptus microcorys and Eucalysaligna grown in Rwanda was studied. The objectives of the study were:To provide information on the variation in basic densities of the species.To provide information on the variation in basic densities within and between trees of the species. To find whether a relationship existed between basic density and tree age and site.To compare the basic densities of the three species from Rwanda with those of the same species grown in other countries. Each of the three species was sampled at Butare, Gisenyi and Musha, sites which are located in different geographic regions. Three 5 cm thick discs were cut from each tree, one at breast height, one at 33 per cent and one at 66 per cent of total tree height. A strip of 2 x 2 cm cross section was extracted from each disc from bark to bark through the pith. The radial strips were then cut into two pieces through the pith and each of these pieces was finally divided into three equal length sections which were used as final samples for the laboratory measurements. Basic density was calculated from oven dry weight and green volume of the samples. The main results from the study are: There were no significant differences between sites. Although the effect of age on basic density could not be confirmed due to intervening factors, tree average basic densities from younger stands seemed to be lower than the overall values for the species. Highly significant differences existed between specie; and represented alone about 55 per cent of the total estimated variation. Significant differences existed between trees but represented only 8 per cent of the total estimated variation E. microcorys aged 38 years at Butane, 26 years at Gisenyi and 26 years at Musha had average wood basic densities of 732, 618 and 719 kg/m3 respectively. Out of the three species considered, this species was found to have the densest wood. It was significantly denser than E. saligna but not significantly different from the 23-24 and 35 year old E. maidenii. E. maidenii aged 35 years at Butane, 9 years at Gisenyi and 23-24 years at Musha had average densities of 693, 583 and 693 kg/m3 respectively. The average basic densities of the 24, 9 and 23-24 year old E. saligna from Butane, Gisenyi andMusha were 589, 475 and 551 kg/m3 respectively. This species was found to be the least dense of the three. The average tree basic densities from stands in Rwanda are lower than the values for the same species growing in Australia. Compared to results from Brazil, averages for E. saligna from Rwanda are higher than those of the same species grown in Itupeva and in the same range as those grown in Mogi Guacu. In the axial direction, basic density increased significantly with height in the stems of E. microcorys. In E. maidenii and E. saligna, the increase was not significant at the 0.05 level. In the radial direction, basic density increased significantly from the pith outwards at height levels 1.3 m and at 33 per cent, but not at 66 per cent. It is suggested that E. maidenii, because of its dense wood and fast growth should be selected for large scale plantations for the production of fuel wood and construction wood urgently needed in Rwanda.
Biomass, volume and nutrient content assessment in three-year old eucalyptus melliodora unweeded, clean-weeded and intercropped with beans, sorghum and maize in Morogoro area, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1982) Ahimana, Celestin
In February, 1978, an agroforestry experiment was established at Mafiga, a semi-arid area, in Morogoro Region, Tanzania (37º38' E and 6º49' S). The experiment was a 5 x 5 Latin square in which Eucalyptus melliodora was grown unweeded, clean-weeded and intercropped with beans, sorghum and maize at 2.5 m x 2.5 m espacement. In February, 1981, at the age of three years, the stands were clearfelled and the above crops were grown amongst the coppice. At the time of clearfeelling, the opportunity to assess the volume and biomass of felled treel was taken. The biomass of litter, undergrowth and fallen branches was also assessed. Soil samples were taken for assessment of the nutrient store. Calcium, nitrogen, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium and sodium concentrations and contents in various tree components and liter were determined. Loss of nitrogen by burning was also ascertained. The new bean, sorghum and maize crops were also assessed for biomass and nutrient content when they were harvested in June 1981. Tree and stand volume was estimated using the summation of volumes of equal tree sections and the stand volume also assessed-using the formula V = g x H and by Kio's and Satoo's methods. Above and below-ground tree component biomass was determined by destructive sampling. The allometric regression model in {tree component, kg) = a + a (In dbh, cm) was used to estimate the dry weight of individual trees in the plots. Unweeded trees had the lowest survival rate {53%), volume {8.57 m3 ha-1) and biomass {6,0 t ha-1) , There was no significant difference between clean-weeded trees and those intercropped with beans either in volume or biomass production (respectively 37.41 m3 ha-1 and 37.82 m3 ha-1 and 31.0 t ha-1 and 30.0 t ha-1). Intercropping sorghum and maize significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the tree volume and biomass production (respectively 26.02 m 3 ha-1. and 24.80 m3 ha-1 and 21. 8 t ha-1 and 21 . 0 t ha-1 ). Yields of food crops were as follows: beans, 14'7 kg ha-1; maize, 500 kg ha-1; sorghum, 180 kg ha-1. Beans, sorghum and maize residues had an oiomass of 0.3, 1.7, and 2.2 t ha-1 respectively. The wood yield hectare for planted with beans is sufficient to provide enough fuel for a family of five for a period of at least six years. By removal of stem (overbark) and branches considerable amounts of nutrients are drained from the site, however by leaving the branches and bark on the site, the nutrient drain is insignificant. Nitrogen loss by buring varied from 41% to 91% of the original concentration. Very small amounts to nutrients are lost in food crop harvesting. Techinically, intercropping the above agricultural crops has been found feasible. However, while the espacement of 2.5 m x 2.5 m in this experiment favours tree growth, wider espacements would provide better food crop growth. More reseach is needed to find precisely which tree espacements will give the optimum balance between food crop and wood yields under any specified set of environmental conditions.
Cassava root flour as a source of energy for growing and finishing pigs
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1980) Babyegeya, Wilfred Bitegeko Melwa
Two experiments were conducted to evaluate cassava root flour as a source of energy for growing and finishing pigs by substituting maize with cassava. In the first experiment maize was replaced by cassava up to 45 percent in four- rations (O, ,15 , 30 and 45 percent cassava), and the digestibility of nutrients in all four rations determined and campared. In the second experiment maize was replaced by cassava up to 40 percent in five rations {O, 10, 20, 30 and 40 percent cassava). Growth rate, feed efficiency and carcass character-istics of pigs in all five rations were determined and compared. The digestibility of nutrients in all cassava based rations was significantly greater {P<.05 ) than in the control maize ration. The increase was however at a decreasing rate up to 45 percent cassava indicating that there must be an upper limit of using cassava in the pig rations.The results of the second experiment indicated that it was advantageous to incorporate cassava up to 40 percent in the nations for growing and finishing pigs. Growth rate, feed efficiency and carcass characteristics of pigs on cassava based rations were generally better or equal to that of pigs on maize based rations. The two experiments as a whole therefore, suggest that cassava can to a large degree, be successfully used as sub-stitutes for certain cereals in nutritionally balanced rations for growing and finishing pigs in Tanzania.
Causes of decline in coffee production and its impact on household wellbeing and gender relations in Moshi, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2010) Njau, Perpetua Nicholaus
Decline in coffee production has impact on household wellbeing and gender relations. The main objective of the study is to identify factors responsible for decline in household coffee production and further to assess whether the decline of coffee production has led to decline in household wellbeing. The study answered questions on what are the factors responsible for decline in coffee production, how the decline in coffee production affects household socio-economic and what the implications of the changes in coffee production are and livelihoods on gender relations. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. The methods of data collection were questionnaire, interviews, field observation and secondary data. The types of questions asked include causes of coffee decline, livelihood and gender relations changes. Both closed and open- ended questions were asked. Random sampling was used to get sample whereby 10% households were studied, making a total of 100 sample of the study. Research findings indicated that the decline in coffee resulted in changes from farm to non-farm activities like petty trade, changes from cash to food crops and increasing out-migration. The implications of the decline in coffee crop production revealed that men lacked source of income and failed to assume household cash responsibilities than before. It was also found that women work load of providing household needs has increased. Furthermore the gendered ownership of assets was changed in that women owned bananas, fruits, milk, beans and maize and men owned coffee before, however, later with the decline of coffee production, men owned bananas, milk, beans, maize and fruits.The study recommended that the policies concerned the cut-off agricultural subsidies, population increase need to be reviewed in order to ensure available farm inputs and land for expansion of agriculture. There is a need of empowering both men and women to enable them generate sound income for household needs.
Causes of decline in major crop production in Bukoba: Banana, coffee and tea
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1976) Kabwoto, Ernest
There is proof that the production of major crops namely banana, coffee and tea in Bukoba has declined. The available statistics show that yield per hectare for banana and coffee has been declining over time since 1910 to the present day. The decline for tea production is reflected in the failure of the Bukoba Tea Scheme to hit its target set by 1974 and lack of enthusiasm on the part of the peasants and their withdrawal from participating in the scheme. One cause of this decline originates from the inherent physical characteristics of the soils which besides being naturally infertile are very susceptible to leaching of essential plant mineral nutrients under Bukoba climatic conditions. This process has been observed to be due to very high rainfall in Bukoba and other climatic factors which make the soils continually lose their mineral nutrients. Under such conditions there is rising demand for manure/fertilizer inputs to restore and maintain soil fertility. This also calls for better husbandry methods on the part of the peasants which currently seem to be lacking. Besides, the costs of the inputs are so high that an ordinary peasant cannot afford them without assistance in the present conditions. These conditions are against the peasant. The market situation is such that producer price of the two cash crops (coffee and tea) has been kept low for long time and the future does not seem bright. This is partly due to domestic policies. While the earnings realised in the world marker are low, a large part of them do not reach the producer. Instead they are either spent on administrative costs or other things outside the coffee and tea industries. The marked effects are that potential productive peasants withdraw from participation in the production of the crops and shift to other sectors of the economy or become less productive within the industries themselves. The author suggests that this situation should be rectified if crops production is to be kept at the required level and quality. This is possible if the government is ready to reinvest proceeds in the three industries and create necessary incentives for farmers so that they can produce more and raise the quality of the crops. For example the government may subsidize the peasant through providing fertilisers and insecticides and may improve infrastructural facilities in the area in order to boost his production means.
Coconut oil meal in fattening pig rations
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1979) Lekule, Faustin P.M
This experiment was designed to study effects of using coconut cake in pig diets. Pigs of average live weight 40 kg were fed to a restricted scale diets containing 0, 10, 20 or 30% coconut meal to a slaughter weight of 90kg. The coconut meal replaced an equal weight of soybean/maize meal in the diet. Rate of gain and efficiency of feed conversion were linearly reduced by increased levels of coconut meal beyond 10% while costs of feed per kg meat produced increased progressively when coconut meal was incorporated in diets above 10%. The 10% coconut meal diet supported the highest growth rates and was the most economical. The rates of gain were 0.705, 0.719, 0.531 and 0.438kg/ day for the 0, 10, 20 and 30% coconut meal diets, respectively. The efficiencies of feed conversion were reduced beyond 10% coconut meal inclusion; the ratio of feed per gain were 3.21, 3.11, 3.83 and 4.91 for 0, 10, 20 and 30% coconut meal diets, respectively. Though coconut meal was cheaper than the replaced soybean/maize meal the cost of feed per kg live weight gain followed a similar trend. Addition of coconut meal increased fat firmness and side fat thickness. Other carcass quality parameters of meat colour, backfat thickness, area of longissimus dor Lekule si muscle, carcass length, killing out percent, iodine value and saponification value were not affected by the level of coconut meal in the diet. Most were, however, affected by sex. Gilts produced more lean than barrows. Organ weights of kidneys, heart, liver, spleen and weights of kidney fat, fillet muscle and ham were not influenced by the level of coconut meal in the diet. Feed intake was reduced at 20 and 30% levels of coconut meal in the diet. Reduced consumption, reduced digestibility due to increased fibre content and possibly poor lysine availability and protein digestibility of coconut meal are advanced as the main contributing factors for decreased rate and efficiency of gain when coconut meal was incorporated beyond 10%.
Community based marine curio trade in Unguja island-Zanzibar
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2013) Haji, Asha Mati
The marine curio trade is important economic activities for most of coastal people. It involves collection and selling of marine living resources. This study was aiming at determining the contribution of curio trade to the livelihood of the coastal people of Unguja Island by identifying the most common curio species collected, the abundances, there sizes, determining the prices and the contribution of curio trade. The study sites was Nungwi, Kiwengwa and Stone town and covered both collectors and curio sellers. Field survey, direct field observation and formal interview were used in gathering vital information on the aspect of the marine curio trade. The result showed that almost all marine species collected at Nungwi and Kiwengwa were similar. About 18 species of marine shells were found to be collected to both Kiwengwa and Nungwi. In Nungwi about 71% of the curio collectors were adult female and 29% were male, but in Kiwengwa major portion of curio collectors were under 18 years consisting of 68%, male were 23% and females were 9%. The study also found that, curio sellers are concentrated in Zanzibar town followed by Nungwi and Kiwengwa. There are some marine species which are decreasing in abundances example, Cypraea cassis rufa, Cypraea cassis cornuta, Lambis truncata and Ovula ovam. Curio trade has positive contribution to the livelihoods of the coastal people, this study has found that the collection pressure for marine shell has increased from increasing number of collectors and sellers; hence this pressure could cause great reduction to some organisms and even disappearance. This study recommend strong management , rules and regulations should be planned to ensure curio sellers and collectors are done their business sustainably.
Comparative effectiveness of group extension methods in village farming in the coastal zone of Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1979) Kauzeni, Athanas Stephen
This dissertation compares the effectiveness of three group-based agricultural extension methods: (I) demonstrations together with formal scheduled group discussion meeting, (ii) formal scheduled group discussion meetings alone and (iii) informal unscheduled or general meetings or contacts that were applied in 24 villages of the coastal zone in Bigamy, Handiness, Korogwe, and Morogoro Districts, Tanzania. It examines social, economic, political, administrative, educational, and environmental factors that directly or indirectly affect the effectiveness of agricultural extension methods and the extension service in general. The aim of the study is: first, to identify the best or most effective group-based agricultural extension methods which conform to the country’s policy for villagization as related to the prevailing economic and social conditions. Secondly, to identify constraints to agricultural extension methods and the extension service in general that render agricultural extension workers ineffective and consequently inhibit increased agricultural production. Third, the study aims at making recommendations that will help agricultural extension workers in villages to increase their communication effectiveness which will hopefully lead to increased agricultural production. Historically the agricultural extension service has been understaffed, and most seriously under-educated (in basic education), and under-trained (in extension and agriculture). Inadequate training, particularly in the extension approach or methods, is alleged to be one of the main causes for ineffectiveness of agricultural extension workers and the extension service in general. The training given lacks understanding and proper emphasis, therefore does not produce extension workers able to communicate effectively with farmers. Consequently extension workers have apparently had a minor impact in inducing changes in farming. Five operational dependent variables used in measuring the effectiveness of the three group-based agricultural extension methods are: (I) knowledge of recommended farming practices, (ii) Adoption rate of recommended farming practices, (iii) Development increase of the village, (iv) Income per ha and (v) Income per man-day. Results of the study show that differences exist in effectiveness of the three group-based agricultural extension methods as stated in the hypotheses tested. Some of these differences are statistically significant, others are not. Of the three group-based agricultural extension methods studied, demonstrations together with formal scheduled group discussion meetings proved to be the most effective. Formal scheduled group discussion meetings were second in effectiveness, and informal unscheduled general meetings or contacts were last in effectiveness. The analytical methods used in arriving at these results include simple and multiple regression and analysis of variance. There are also differences between Districts in relation to the effectiveness of extension methods in respect of the five operational variables. Some of these differences were statistically significant, other were not. Districts differ in levels of performance in respect to nature of activities (communal versus individual) but none of these differences between Districts are statistically significant. Finally, results show that there are, on average, statistically significant differences between communal and individual types of farming systems in respect of the two income variables under all three types of group-based extension methods. Several obstacles affect agricultural information communication in the coastal zone villages: These include poor basic education and professional training of agricultural extension workers, high illiteracy percentage level among farmers, inadequate structural organisation of the extension service, poor supervision of village level extension workers, and economic and social disparity between villagers and extension workers. In order to improve effectiveness of the agricultural extension approach and the extension service as a whole, it is recommended that evaluation of the agricultural extension service, particularly extension methods, be made more often. Demonstrations and meetings should be the key educational tool of the extension workers in villages. The entire agricultural training programmes should be reviewed to insure that relevant subjects have their due emphasis in the syllabi. The number of trainees should be increased and only form IV and above with high passes in relevant subjects should be recruited in so far as adequate numbers are available. Village-level agriculture extension workers should be employees of villages. Research recommendations for villages should be accompanied by their economic aspects to make them complete and should be written in layman’s language for extension workers and farmers to understand. Farmers should be required to adopt complete packages of recommendations for a maximum increase in agricultural production to the extent that they are economically viable. There is an urgent need for a socialist credit system to be established to serve villages. Refresher or in-service courses for junior and senior agricultural extension workers should be arranged annually or after every two years. Finally, an intensive political education campaign should be launched for villagers, particularly village council members, to enlighten them on the meaning, demands, and relevance of socialism in their own context.
A comparison of sorghum silage as roughage feed for lactating dairy cattle
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1980) Majani, Ally S
Sisal pulp is a potential cattle feed as it is readily available at no cost on the sisal estates. The study was undertaken to investigate the effect of feeding sisal pulp silage to lactating dairy cattle fed at different levels with sorghum silage on milk yield and composition. Two experiments were conducted. In the first experiment in which the in vivo digestibility for the experimental diets were evaluated, 12 rams were fed sorghum silage (group 1), sorghum silage plus concentrate (group 2) and sorghum silage plus sisal pulp (group 3). The in vivo digestibility coefficients for sisal pulp silage and concentrate were obtained by difference. Sisal pulp silage was slightly superior to sorghum silage in form of chemical composition. The DM, OM, CWC and CP digestibility coefficients for sorghum silage were 44.4, 47.6, 46.0 and 44.5 respectively and the digestibility coefficients for sisal pulp silage in that order were 54.3, 56.5, 71.4 and 67.8 respectively. The CWC and CP digestibility coefficients for sisal pulp silage in that order were significantly higher (P 0.05) than the corresponding values for sorghum silage. The ME for sorghum silage and sisal pulp silage were 1.48 Mcal/kg and 1.95 Mcal/kg respectively and these were significantly different (p,0.05). In the second experiment, 18 lactating dairy cattle were used in a randomised block design in three treatment groups of six animals each. The experiment consisted of a pre-experimental period (4 weeks) during which all the animals were given 2/3 sorghum silage + 1/3 sisal pulp silage + concentrate. In the experimental period (6 weeks) the cows in-group 1 were offered 3/3 sorghum silage + concentrate but animals in group 2 continued to receive the same diet as in the pre-experimental period. Cows in group e were supplied with 1/3 sorghum silage + 2/3 sisal pulp silage + concentrate and in the post experimental period (4 weeks) all the cows were fed as in the pre-experimental period. Throughout the three feeding periods all the animals were allowed 2-3 hours grazing per day. The amount of concentrate offered to the three groups was the same. The voluntary roughage kg DM intakes per 100kg body weight were 1.31 for group 1, 1.19 for group 2 and 1.57 for group 3 animals. The differences were significant (P,0.01). The total DM intakes per metabolic body weight and the total ME consumed from the total diet followed the same trend. There were no significant differences (P,0.05) among the three treatment groups in form of actual milk yield, 4% FCM and milk composition. During the experimental period, the actual milk yield values for the three groups in the order of increasing sisal pulp silage in the diet were 8.4kg, 6.8kg and 8.1kg and the 4% FCM in that order were 8.9kg, 7.9kg and 8.9kg. However, animals in groups 3 gained more body weight but no significant (P,0.05) during the experimental period, followed by group 2 and group 1 gained the least. It is concluded that sisal pulp silage may be used as the major part of the roughage diet for lactating dairy cows without any adverse affect on animal health or production.
Copper and Zinc Status of some volcanic ash soils in the Mbeya district
(University of Dar es salaam, 1980) Kamasho, Josephath Aiwinia
The aim of this project was to prepare the available Cu and Zn fertility maps for the soils of the Mbeya District. Before reaching this stage, an investigation was carried out to select a suitable extractant for these two nutrient elements. Critical soil-test values and limits for Cu and Zn fertility categories to be used for demarcating the area were identified. Attempts were also made to identify critical plant tissue content of Cu and Zn fertilisation on soils of different fertility in the district. Among the three extractants, 0.1N HC1, 0.05M EDTA and DTPA, evaluated for their suitability for assessing Cu and Zn availability in the soils of the Mbeya District, DTPA was most suitable. The tentative critical soil-test values below which wheat may respond to Cu and Zn fertilisation were 0.7 ppm Cu and 3.5 ppm zn as extracted by DTPA. Although somewhat inferior, 0.05M EDTA may be considered as an alternative to DTPA with tentative critical soil-test value of 1.0 ppm Cu and 11.0 ppm Zn. Based on the DTPA-extractable Cu and Zn contents, and pattern of distribution of relative yields with respect to soil-test values, three fertility categories were identified as follows:
Cotton seed meal as a protein source for pigs
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1982) Kafumu, Muga A. B
Two experiments were conducted to determine, first, the digestibility coefficients, digestible energy (DE), metabolizable energy (ME ) and nitrogen balance by pigs in Ukiriguru variety of cottonseed meal in pig diets containing 0, 6, 12 and 18% cottton seed meal. Secondly, to study the effect of incorporation of Ukiriguru variety cottonseed meal in pig rations on performance and carcass characteristics. In the digestibility study the mean apparent digestability coefficients of cottonseed meal components of organic matter (OM), dry matter (DM), crude protein (C ')v crude fibre (CF), either extract (EE ) and nitrogen free extracts (NEE) were 66.3, 63.4, 73,11 .6, 67.3 and 70.5% respectively. The DE and ME were 2.9101 and 2.7243 Mcal/kg of DM, respectively and nitrogen retained was 50.7% of nitrogen intake. The calculated digestibility coefficients of DM, OM, CF, EE and NFE in cottonseed meal alone decreased significantly with increasing, levels of cottonseed meal in diet probably because of the high CF in the test cottonseed meal. DE and ME were similarly affected. In the second study, thirty two is of average live weight of 25 kg were fed to a restricted scale on diets containing 0, 6, 12 and 18 % cottonseed meal at the expense of whole soybean meal. The rates of gain were 0.525, 0.558, 0:535 and 0.546 kg/day and efficiency of feed utilization were 3.82, 3.38.3.64 and 3.37 for 0, 6, 12 and 18% cotton seed meal diets respectively. Rate of gain and efficiency of feed utilization were not significantly affected (P40.05) by the diet treatment groups. The cost of feed per kg live weight and kg of meat produced decreased progressively when cottonseed meal was corporated at graded levels in diet. The carcass quality para meter of baekfat thickness, area of longissiumsdorsi muscle, carcass weight and length, killing out percentage, kidney fat weight were not affected by the level of cottonseed in the diet. Or an weight of kidneys, liver, heart, spleen and Iungs and weights of different meat cuts (ham, loin, chops, shoulder, jowl and belly) were also not influenced by level of cottonseed meal in the diet. From the findings of this study, it is concluded that since Ukiriguru variety cottonseed meal is abundant and cheap, it may be incorporated in pig diets at the level up to 18%.
Crossbreeding pigs in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1982) Komba, Gabriel Luke
The high demand for animal protein in the developing countries raises the need for making deliberate efforts to improve and expand the livestock production industry. In Tanzania, for example, with a pig population of 80,000 and where pig meat is becoming popular in non-Islamic communities, per capital meat intake can be substantially increased by exploring and improving the pig industry. Crossbreeding is considered the fastest method of improving through breeding most of the economic traits in market pigs. Response to crossbreeding depends on the combining ability of pig breeds. Lack of data to support crossbreeding programmes in the production of market pigs in Tanzania was a major reason for undertaking the study. The experiment was conducted between October 1980 and January 1982. The number of pigs varied with the parameters studied. Three boars and 14 gilts were analysed for fertility traits while 11 litters were used for studies on traits related to litter size. There were 98 pigs for birth weight and 92 pigs for waning weight studies. Other traits studied included growth rate and carcass quality and yield. The progeny belonged to Danish Landrace, Hampshire-Yorkshire and the three-breed reciprocal crosses of the three breeds. All pigs were reared and managed under the same environmental conditions. Crossbreeding had no effects on conception rates. Furrowing percentage was highly significant (p,0.001) for breed of dam and breed of sire. Gestation period ranged from 107-116 days and averaged 113.7 +2.5, 112.2+3.1 and 113+5+1.4 days for the three-breed reciprocal crossbred, Hampshire-Yorkshire and Danish Landrace litters, respectively. The mean litter size of the three-breed reciprocal crosses was lower by 14.2% at weaning than the averages of the parent purebred litters. This showed a negative heterosis for this trait. Crossbreeding significantly increased pig weigh at all ages, average daily gains and slightly improved pig viability. The overall mortality rate was 18.4% and was higher in Danish Landrace than in cross red pigs. Sow crushing and still births were the main causes of piglet mortality while piglet scours and helminthic infestations retarded their growths. Feed conversion ration was slightly improved by crossbreeding. Carcass composition traits were influenced differently by breed and sex. Dressing percentages of Danish Landrace, the three breed reciprocal crosses and Hampshire-Yorkshire pigs were 68.8%, 68.3% and 67.2%, respectively. Crossbreeding had significant effect (p,0.001) on back fat thickness and slight of lean while sex had significant influence (p,0.05) on internal fat deposition. Eye muscle area and hind and fore quarters were slightly affected by breed effects. Hampshire-Yorkshire pigs had significantly heavier head, shoulder and spare ribs-joints than the other two breed types. However, the three-breed reciprocal crossbreds had significantly heavier loin joint than the others. Sex significantly influenced chops meat-joint. Belly and ham meat joints and the internal organs were least affected by breed or sex. Proportions of lean and fat in the 12th rib sample joint were highly influenced (P<0.001) by breed and sex. Bone content was only slightly affected by crossbreeding. Under the conditions of the experiment, the three-breed crosses had higher survival rate and better growth performance than the purebreds and leaner carcasses than the two-breed crosses. The study has shown that the use of crossbred gilts has an advantage over the purebred gilts in the production of the three breed crosscossbred pigs.
Cupressus lucitanica miller, growth and yield studies in Kenya
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1977) Mathu, Winston
This is a growth and yield study of Cupressus lusitanica Miller under the present sawtimber management schedules in Kenya. It is based on 133 permanent sample plots maintained by the Kenya Forest Department. Site, size quality and site indexing systems are discussed and site index curves for C. lusitanica in Kenya constructed, using the periodic dominant height increment method and a reference age of 20 years. The mean diameter of thinning, basal area and basal area development are discussed and the relevant equations derived. Basal area increment for understocked, normal and overstocked stands are also studied. Understocking was found to result in lower basal area increment at early age (up to age 20 years on average site). This indicates that the three first thinnings are probably too heavy. Finally a volume yield table is constructed for the average site index class in Kenya (S.1. 24.1). The volume is calculated using the tree volume equation by H. L. Wright (1999) which has dominant height and diameter at breast height as independent variables. The current and mean annual volume increments are discussed and the biological rotation for the average site in Kenya determined.
Diffusion of an agricultural innovation - hybrid maize in Njombe district
(University of Dar es Salaam, 1978) Mgeni, Bernard Christopher
The problem of this study was the identification of the reasons of acceptance and rejection of the hybrid maize innovation in Njombe and also to test the universality of the diffusion’s model as applied to the area of study. The methodology applied included questionnaire interviews, informal discussions with the officials and peasants, the results being analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively with the Chi-square test and TAU (Kendall's correlation coefficient). A number of socio - economic is and political variables have been considered as to how they influence the innovativeness of farmers. The outcomes show that the diffusion’s model should not be adapted as a piece meal to different social environments and that economic reasons are the principal deterrents to early adoption i.e. innovativeness.

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