The distribution of maize and maize flour in Tanzania mainland

This paper is mainly concerned with the optimization problem for the distribution of maize and maize flour in relation to transport costs. The main objective is to minimize the total transport and storage costs while meeting people’s needs. The distribution of maize and maize flour together with other food crops like wheat and rice and their products is a task carried out by the National Milling Corporation (abbreviated to NMC). The background information on the NMC has been outlined in chapter 1 as an introductory part of the paper. We have discussed first the construction of a mathematical model to obtain an optimal distribution of maize and maize flour in mainland Tanzania. In chapter 2, we have briefly defined the type of problem that is dealt with. In chapter 3 a theoretical consideration has been given. In this chapter, we have discussed the classical transportation problem. We have also given a short review on linear programming problems and how the simplex Technique can be applied in solving our problem. The mathematical model has been formulated in chapter 4. The model is seen to be of the dynamic type. In chapter 5, the problem has been reduced to a linear programming problem which has then been solved by the use of the simplex Technique. All the data we have has been included in chapter 6. It has been pointed out in chapter 6 that the data we have on production and demand figures is based on estimates. In order to see how good our mathematical model formulated in chapter 5 is, we have tried to solve the problem using only four regions randomly selected. The trial solution has been discussed in chapter 7. Chapter 8 is mainly concerned with the solution to the whole problem formulated in chapter 5. Some comments are given at the end of chapter 8. A reference list of books has been given