The role of AfCFTA in enhancing capital accumulation through vegetables and fruits trade: a case of Tanzania

Journal articleTanzania's ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents an opportunity to enhance regional trade and stimulate capital accumulation in the fruits and vegetables sectors. This paper is based on a study that explored how trade liberalization driven by AfCFTA can promote capital accumulation through increased net exports, the reinvestment of trade surpluses, and improved financial linkages. Using the Dynamic Equilibrium Model for Economic Development, Resources, and Agriculture (DEMETRA)—a single-country computable general equilibrium (CGE) model—and the Modular Applied General Equilibrium Tool (MAGNET), a global multiregional CGE model, the study simulated two trade liberalization scenarios: (i) tariff-only reductions and (ii) reductions combining both tariff and non-tariff measures (NTMs). These scenarios were evaluated across four trade schedules: Revenue from Tariff (REV), which focused on optimizing government revenue; Agricultural Trade (AGR), which prioritized food security and market access; Intermediate Inputs Trade (INT), which supported industrialization through supply chain enhancements; and Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA), which targeted competitive export sectors. The study findings indicate that the Tariff + NTM scenario yielded be er trade outcomes, with net exports for fruits projected to reach 115.79 billion TZS and for vegetables 86.26 billion TZS by 2035, compared to 112.25 billion TZS and 83.48 billion TZS, respectively, under the Tariff-only scenario. The RCA and INT schedules generated the most significant trade surpluses, highlighting the importance of strategic tariff reductions and targeted trade facilitation. Key policy recommendations include reducing NTMs through streamlined customs procedures, investing in export-support infrastructure such as cold storage and transport networks, and enhancing competitiveness through value addition and regional market integration. These measures would maximize the benefits of AfCFTA in strengthening Tanzania's agricultural trade, fostering capital reinvestment, and ensuring long-term economic resilience

Contextual drivers of climate-smart agroforestry adoption in Bugesera and Rulindo agroecosystems of Rwanda

Journal ArticleThis study examined 381 farmers from two regions in Rwanda to investigate how contextual factors at the field level interact with climate-smart agroforestry (CSAF) practices. Farmers were categorized as low (LAD), medium (MAD), and high (HAD) adopters based on tree counts. Various contextual factors — notably location, demographics, assets, farm characteristics, and institutional variables — were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, logit regression, and propensity score matching. Farmers in Bugesera had larger farms and higher tree counts than those in Rulindo, resulting in greater farm income in Bugesera. Positive correlations were found among altitude, slope, erosion class, gender, household size, poverty level, income source, marital status, education, farm area, cropping practices, farm-river distance, changes in CSAF cover, population dynamics, and LAD. CSAF farms outperformed monoculture farms regarding cassava, maize, and bean yields, particularly in Bugesera and Rulindo among larger landholdings. Logit regression analysis showed that combinations of multipurpose trees and crop planting significantly improved farm yields, with household size and farm size being critical factors for CSAF adoption. Propensity score matching confirmed the positive effects of CSAF practices on farm yield and income, contributing to enhanced rural well-being. These findings underscore the crucial role of CSAF in promoting well-being. The results encourage stakeholders to develop strategies for CSAF. While these findings are specific to local contexts, they may hold potential relevance at regional and global levels. This of charcoal to the City of Kigali, rendering it treeless and semi- arid. Concerted efforts are needed to develop irrigation schemes and subsidize tree seedlings for farmers to contend with drought and increase and sustain production in this region, known as food insecure

Implications of climate-smart aquaculture practices on households’ income and food security in Mwanza and Mara, Tanzania’s Lake Zone

Journal ArticleBackground: Climate-Smart Aquaculture (CSAq) practices present significant opportunity for the mitigation of climate-related challenges within the aquaculture sub-sector, particularly in the Lake Zone of Tanzania, where aquaculture and fisheries are central to household well-being. Aims: This study aimed to evaluate the impact of three CSAq practices—integrated farming, polyculture, and monoculture—on household income and food security. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2023 and February 2024, involving 384 aquaculture households across the Mara and Mwanza regions. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods, including chi-square and t-tests, to determine the influence of CSAq practices on economic and food security outcomes. Results: The findings revealed that integrated farming significantly enhanced both household income and food security, with participating households achieving a "Very Satisfactory" Household Food Security Index (HFSI) score. In Mara, where integrated farming was more prevalent, households reported significantly higher yields (3303 ± 155 kg) compared to those in Mwanza (2454 ± 146 kg; t = 4.96, p < 0.001). However, Mwanza exhibited significantly higher prices per kilogram (6719 ± 103 TSH) than Mara (5799 ± 122 TSH; t = -5.29, p < 0.001) attributed to superior market access and infrastructure. Polyculture practices, more frequently adopted in Mwanza (35.7%) than in Mara (21.8%), yielded variable impacts on income and food security. Chi-square analysis (χ² = 9.269, p = 0.010) indicated significant regional disparities in CSAq adoption, with Mara exhibiting higher adoption rates of integrated farming (69.3%) compared to Mwanza (56.0%). Conclusions: This study confirmed that integrated aquaculture-agriculture systems significantly improve household income and food security, while monoculture increases vulnerability. Regional variations indicate higher yields in Mara, associated with the widespread adoption of integrated farming, whereas Mwanza benefited from enhanced market access and elevated fish prices. Strengthening financial access, training programs, and institutional support is crucial for enhancing CSAq adoption. Key recommendations include the expansion of extension services, the improvement of market infrastructure, and the fortification of cooperative support systems to ensure sustainable aquaculture

Ectoparasites and hemoparasites of the Emini Silvery Mole rats (Heliophobius Argentiocinereus Emini) in Morogoro region, Tanzania Essau Elly Mwalukasa

Journal ArticleBackground: The silvery mole rat (Heliophobius Argentiocinereus Emini) is a subterranean rodent widely distributed across Sub-Saharan Africa and exploited as a protein source in some communities. Despite this, limited data exist on ectoparasite and hemoparasite infections in this species in Tanzania. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hemoparasites in silvery mole rats and to identify their potential arthropod vectors in the Morogoro region of Tanzania. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Mvomero and Morogoro districts, Tanzania, between March and June 2023. A total of 137 silvery mole rats were captured through manual excavation. Ectoparasites were collected from animal fur and identified morphologically using taxonomic keys. Blood samples were obtained directly from the heart, and smears were prepared, stained with Giemsa, and microscopically examined for hemoparasites. Statistical analysis was performed to assess associations between host factors, ectoparasite infestation, and hemoparasite infection. Results: Of the 137 captured mole rats, 65% (n=89) were females and 86.7% (n=120) were adults. The overall prevalence of ectoparasitism was 71.5% (98/137). A total of 1,503 ectoparasites were recovered, dominated by Androlaelaps spp. (93.15%, n=1400), followed by Echinolaelaps echidinus (6.19%, n=93), and Haemaphysalis spp. ticks (0.67%, n=10). Hemoparasites were detected in 29.2% (40/137) of hosts, including Anaplasma spp. (25.5%) and Babesia spp. (16.8%). Coinfections with both parasites occurred in 13.1% of individuals. Adult mole rats had significantly higher odds of hemoparasite infection (OR = 3.23, 95% CI: 1.15–9.11, p = 0.04). Tick infestation was strongly associated with Babesia spp. (χ² = 11.91, OR = 15.56, p < 0.001) and Anaplasma spp. (χ² = 5.82, OR = 8.3, p = 0.01). Conclusion: This study demonstrates a high prevalence of ectoparasites and hemoparasites among silvery mole rats in the Morogoro region. The dominance of mite infestations and significant associations between ticks and blood parasites highlight the potential role of mole rats as reservoirs of zoonotic pathogens. Further molecular studies are warranted to characterize these parasites and evaluate their public health implications

Influence of familiarity on consumer acceptance of value-added products from Justicia heterocarpa leaves

Journal ArticleThis study investigated the sensory perception and consumer acceptability of value-added products derived from Justicia heterocarpa, an underutilized indigenous leafy vegetable with potential nutritional benefits. A total of 110 participants, comprising 80 semi-trained students unfamiliar with J. heterocarpa and 30 untrained university workers familiar with J. heterocarpa in term of consumption and utilization. Four samples (freshly harvested, blanched dried, unblanched dried, and fermented) were tested for consumer acceptability using a 9-point hedonic scale. The results revealed a significant influence of the panelists on flavor (p < 0.001) and overall acceptability (p = 0.003) among familiar and unfamiliar panelists. Unfamiliar panelists rated the flavor and general acceptability of the fermented vegetables higher. There were significant differences in color (p < 0.0001), flavor (p = 0.0002), and general acceptability (p = 0.0235) between the familiar and unfamiliar groups. Correlation analysis revealed a positive correlation between general acceptability of flavor (r = 0.81) and texture (r = 0.65). Principal component analysis identified flavor and texture as the primary drivers of overall acceptance. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of palatable processed J. heterocarpa. These findings underscore the importance of carefully considering the effects of different processing methods when formulating product development strategies to enhance consumer acceptance

Comparing ARFIMA and ARIMA models in forecasting under five mortality rate in Tanzania

Journal articleTanzania has been taking various measures to drop the Under-Five Mortality Rate (UFMR), but the pace to meet national and global UFMR targets has been slow. Nevertheless, the decline for the past years has continued to be low as compared to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) target which is set at 25 deaths/1000 live births by 2030. The lack of statistical modeling-based forecast values of UFMR results into setting targets that are not SMART towards the realization of national and international goals of the health sector. Thus, the current study uses both ARFIMA and ARIMA to make forecasts of UFMR in Tanzania from 2021 to 2030 by using data extracted from the World Databank - World Development Indicators (WDI). Also, an accuracy comparison between the ARFIMA and ARIMA best-fit models in forecasting UFMR was conducted. The forecasts from the best ARFIMA (1, 0.284243, 2) model indicate that by June 2026 the rate will on average be 41 deaths/1,000 live births as compared to the Tanzanian Five Year Development Plan Phase III (TFYDP-III) target of 40 deaths/1,000 live births; whereas the best fit ARIMA (1, 2, 0) model forecasts depict that the rate will be 40.1 deaths/1,000 live births as compared to the TFYDP-III target. In relation to the UN SDGs target of 25 deaths/1,000 live births by 2030, the ARFIMA (1, 0.284243, 2) model forecast values indicate that by 2030, Tanzania will experience a decrease in UFMR to 35.2 deaths/1,000 live births. The ARIMA (1, 2, 0) forecast values indicate that by 2030, Tanzania will experience a decrease in UFMR to 32.9 deaths/1,000 live births. The results of using RMSE and MAPE forecasting model accuracy measures reveal that the ARFIMA (1, 0.284243, 2) model performs better than ARIMA (1, 2, 0) in forecasting UFMR

Assessing the effectiveness of employable learning pathways in vocatinal education and training in VETA Lindi and Mtwara Centers

International Journal of Education and Social Science Research Vol. 7, Issue.5, Sep-Oct 2024, p no. 62-73This study assessed the effectiveness of employable learning pathways in Vocational Education and Training (VET) in two Vocational Education and Training Authority (VETA) centres; Lindi and Mtwara in Tanzania. VET plays a crucial role in youth employment, but there are challenges in ensuring that graduates' skills align with market demands. The study employed a survey research design and gathered data from 123 respondents, including 116 trainees and seven instructors, through closed questionnaires. The study was guided by human capital theory. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were employed to assess the effectiveness of the curriculum in teaching methods and learning resources at those centres, as well as to evaluate resource availability. Findings revealed that work-based learning particularly industrial attachments positively impacts skills development, but language barriers, outdated equipment and inadequate resources hinder effectiveness. The study concluded that there is a need for improved language support programs, and modern facilities to enhance VET outcomes. The study recommends that improving infrastructure in vocational institutes and resource compatibility with industry standards can better equip students for the job market, thus reducing youth unemployment in Tanzania

Internal control systems and the revenue collection performance among Local Government Authorities (LGA) in Tanzania

Journal articleThis study examines the influence of internal control systems on revenue collection performance in selected Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania. Weak internal controls contribute to inefficiencies, fraud, and inconsistent financial reporting, posing challenges to revenue collection. The study evaluates the influence of internal control mechanisms in three LGAs, Mbeya, Mwanza, and Manyara, categorised as high, medium, and low performers by the Controller and Auditor General (CAG). A cross-sectional survey design was employed, collecting data from 400 revenue officers across the three LGAs. The study applied Two-Stage Least Squares (2SLS) regression, using external audit frequency as an instrument to address endogeneity concerns. Structured questionnaires facilitated standardised data collection. Findings reveal that solid internal controls significantly improve revenue collection. Accurate financial records (β = 0.045, p < 0.01), timely reporting (β = 0.226, p < 0.01), and effective monitoring (β = 0.152, p < 0.01) enhance revenue efficiency. However, fraud incidents negatively impact revenue growth (β = -0.042, p < 0.1). Internal audits strongly influence revenue increments (β = 0.241, p < 0.01), highlighting their crucial role. To enhance revenue performance, LGAs should strengthen internal audits, improve the accuracy of financial records, implement fraud prevention measures, and optimise reporting timelines. Policymakers should establish standardised internal control frameworks, invest in technology, and engage Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), local communities, civil society organisations, and NGOs to enhance external oversight, promote citizen participation, and reinforce trust. Additionally, conducting regular policy reviews will improve accountability and efficiency in revenue collection processes

Management and governance of African rivers

Book chapter 21, pp. 561-584Over the years, there has been an outcry over the decline in ecosystem services (ES) that watersheds and rivers provide (Costanza et al., 1997; Kremen, 2005; De Groot et al., 2012; Ferreira et al., 2023; Masese and Dalu, 2024, Chapter 1). This situation has been witnessed in different parts of the world where dramatic declines in ES have posed serious challenges to watershed and river basin conservation (Kulindwa, 2005). While the capacity of watersheds and rivers to provide ES has become erratic, and sometimes increasing arithmetically, watershed and river basin degradation has been increasing exponentially (Brauman et al., 2014), necessitating the need for effective management and governance structures. Africa is endowed with extensive river basins that offer a wide variety of ES for inland and coastal communities (Dube et al., 2024, Chapter 2; O’Brien et al., 2024, Chapter 3; Mwaijengo et al., 2024, Chapter 4; Muvundja et al., 2024, Chapter 5; Dalu et al., 2024a,b, Chapters 6 and 7). The continent has many valuable large rivers, including the Congo, Limpopo, Niger, Nile, Okavango, Orange, Senegal, Volta, and Zambezi whose waters and catchments are habitats for endemic and threatened species of aquatic flora and fauna. Most of these river basins have socio-economic and cultural importance not only at the local, regional and national levels but also at the global scale. They support small-scale and large-scale agriculture, commercial and artisanal fisheries, livestock production and range management, industrial growth, hydro- power development and biodiversity. Unfortunately, the sustainability and well-being of these rivers and their basins face several challenges, including depletion of water resources through excessive abstractions, land use change, barriers to flow and connectivity caused by dams and weirs, failure to invest adequately in river protection, restoration and monitoring, and unsustainable financing of investments in water supply and sanitation (see Mpopetsi et al., 2024, Chapter 25; McClain and Masese, 2024, Chapter 28). The management and governance structures already in place also seem to be inadequate and ineffective. These threats and inadequacies impinge on the sustainable management of rivers, escalating competing demands for basic water supply and sanitation, food security, economic development and river-related ES. In this chapter, we provide an overview of the status of African river basins, existing policy and legal frameworks, and institutional structures established to facilitate their management and governance. The chapter also explores the challenges that have been experienced in the management and governance of river basins in Africa and we propose strategies for their effective management and governanc

The role of farmer field and business school (FFBS) in improving access to agricultural extension services to smallholder farmers in iringa rural district, Tanzania

Journal articleInnovative and holistic approaches, such as the Farmers Field and Business School (FFBS), are essential for advancing agricultural practices and improving smallholder farmer livelihoods. In Tanzania, while evidence suggests that FFBS enhances access to extension services, its specific role remains undocumented. This study used an exploratory sequential mixed method to explore FFBS's role in improving smallholder farmers' access to extension services. The study involved 43 FFBS beneficiaries from CARE International’s FFBS scale-up project, selected through snowball sampling until data were saturated. This approach was chosen due to the challenges of accessing a comprehensive list of active participants and of ensuring that diverse perspectives are included. Data were collected using in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), document review, and observation. Findings suggest that FFBS significantly enhances access to extension services through capacity-building in agronomy, climate resilience through sustainable agricultural practices, market linkages, gender empowerment, and information dissemination. The FFBS programme utilizes innovative experiential learning techniques, including hands-on training in sustainable agricultural practices, to equip farmers with practical knowledge and skills. Despite the positive outcomes, FFBS has not fully facilitated the transition of smallholder farming into large-scale commercial agriculture, highlighting challenges in scaling up production. The study suggests that all FFBS elements need to be fully applied to realize their innovative benefits. Policy implications include the need to improve resource access, particularly capital, technology, and markets for smallholder farmers, integrate FFBS into national extension programs, and promote gender-inclusive capacity-building to scale up agricultural productivity and sustainability