The dynamics underpinning accessibility of paraffin for domestic needs by rural communities: a case study of Kyela District, Tanzania
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Date
2010
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study investigated the dynamics underpinning accessibility of paraffin for domestic needs by rural communities of Kyela District. Specifically, the research aimed at assessing conditions which influence accessibility of paraffin as a source of energy (lighting and cooking) to the rural communities of Kyela and examining strategies for making paraffin accessible to the rural communities of Kyela. The study was undertaken using survey research methods and collected data from a sample of 117 respondents. These included heads of households as key informants, business- persons, local government leaders, and community development officers. The study’s findings show that, conditions influencing accessibility of paraffin comprised of availability status, prices of paraffin and its appliances, education of respondents, distance to the paraffin sources, energy substitutes, and willingness of people to buy and use it. Generally, although paraffin is widely available and highly used by the people of Kyela for lighting, its accessibility for cooking has uncertainties in terms of people’s willingness and ability to purchase and use it, compared to firewood and charcoal which assume dominance in the field. Recommendations include giving education/awareness to people on the proper use of paraffin, and the supply of appliances, particularly for cooking. Also, there should be enforcement of by- laws, control prices of paraffin, and lastly, frequent supply of electricity which will facilitate supply of paraffin at the petrol stations.
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Keywords
Paraffin (Atkanes), Rural communities, Domestic needs, Kyela, Tanzania
Citation
Nsajigwa, R (2010) The dynamics underpinning accessibility of paraffin for domestic needs by rural communities: a case study of Kyela District, Tanzania. Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam. Available at http://41.86.178.3/internetserver3.1.2/search.aspx?