Conservation agriculture and its implications on livelihood security in Tanzania the case of Lindi region
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Date
2015
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study assessed the implications of conservation agriculture on livelihood security of smallholder farmers in the villages of MilolaA& B, MilolaMagharibi and Mkangaulani found in Milola ward in Lindi District. The study enormously employed primary and secondary data collection methods. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected to answer research questions and objectives. Primary data were collected through focus group discussion (n= 14), household survey (n=102), interview with key informants (n=12) and field observations (n=5). On the other hand, extensive literature review enriched the study objective on similar focus. Findings indicate that 91% of respondents were farmers and majority (56%) of respondents between 21 and 40 years. Moreover, about 88% had attained their primary education. It was revealed that, economically active population have pressure for agricultural land and forest resources. This study found that, 60% of farmers were aware of Conservation Agriculture practices, but only 35% practiced. Majority farmers (78% of respondents) revealed that low adoption of CA was mainly contributed by inadequate knowledge of CA and financial constraints. It was established that CA practiced among the villagers include direct planting/minimum tillage (45%), permanent soil cover (35%), crop rotation (12%) and intercropping (8%). It was then discovered that, livelihood outcome, human assets and financial capacities following the adoption of CA was increased. Challenges encountered by farmers include input scarcity and high costs, limited land size and resource endowment. Therefore, more capacity building on CA is required especially through training on CA practices, tools and equipment so as to increase the rate of adoption among farmers
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library (THS EAF S604.64.T34 S28)
Keywords
Agricultural conservation, Lindi region, Tanzania
Citation
Sawe, B. (2015) Conservation agriculture and its implications on livelihood security in Tanzania the case of Lindi region, Master Dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam, Dar es Salaam