Effect of processing methods on the micronutrient profile, colour, and anti- nutritive components of justicia heterocarpa (mwidu)

Journal ArticleJusticia heterocarpa (mwidu) is a popular indigenous leafy vegetable picked wild in rural regions of Morogoro, Tanzania, during the wet seasons. This research examined the impact of processing on micronutrients, total phenols, and anti-nutrient content. The fresh leaves (FL) underwent direct shade drying (UBLDDR), blanched shade drying (BLDR), blanched oven drying (BLDO), fermentation (FFL), and gas and microwave cooking (FLCO5, FLCO10, and FLMCO2). Vitamins, chlorophyll, minerals, phenolic compounds, and anti-nutrients were analyzed. All laboratory experiments adhered to procedures and guidelines. The pH dropped more significantly to <3.5 in a 3% salt-3% sugar brine solution with 1.328 ± 0.006 mg/100 g of lactic acid compared to its counterpart. Blanched leaves dried in 5 days, but unblanched leaves took 15 days. Fermented samples demonstrated a notable reduction in total chlorophyll concentration (0.0964 ± 0.075 mg/g) compared to other processing techniques. The nutritional and anti-nutritional composition of Justicia heterocarpa showed significant change (P < 0.05) depending on processing methods. The results indicated a significant loss of vitamin C in the fermented and ten-minute cooked samples, at 74.57% and 61.64%, respectively.Cooked FLMCO2 (107.4%, 11.29 ± 0.03 mg/100g) and FLCO5 (86.26%, 10.51 ± 0.02 mg/100g) exhibited more than a two-fold increase in beta-carotene compared to fresh leaves (3.67 mg/100g). In comparison to alternative processing procedures, samples cooked for 10 minutes exhibited significant mineral leaching, whereas unblanched direct shade drying preserved the highest mineral concentration. Fermented samples (532.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g) exhibited a 64.19% increase in total Phenolic compounds compared to fresh leaves (190.83 ± 14.91 GAE/100 g). Nonetheless, tannins increased by 68.1% (254.44 ± 7.45 GAE/100g) in the fermented samples. Samples exposed to extended cooking (17.8 ± 3.17 mg/100 g) and fermentation (40.28 ± 3.34 mg/100 g) exhibited the lowest levels of phytates. The oxalate concentration was significantly decreased in the cooked samples. Justicia heterocarpa may serve as a sustainable food supply in areas of Tanzania experiencing nutritional deficits

Assessment of nodulation potential in Mung bean (V. radiata) genotypes

Mungbean, also known as Green gram (Vigna radiata L) is an important legume and annual crop with a sweet flavor and a soft texture when cooked . Mungbeans are a rich source of protein, fiber, vitamin B and C, and minerals making them a popular ingredient in many vegetarian and versatility in various culinary applications like soups, stews, curries, and desserts. Mungbean growth and productivity is influenced by its ability to form symbiotic relationships with nitrogen-fixing bacteria known as rhizobia, which convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be readily used by plants, through the formation of nodules on the roots of the Mungbean plant, where the rhizobia reside. The experiment aimed to assess the nodulation potential in different Mungbean varieties for better management of soil fertility. The experimental design used during research experiment was Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications and four treatments (four Mungbean varieties). Results showed that, there was significant difference on number of nodules both at flowering and pod filling stage at P-value <0.001. TARI GRAM 1 variety exhibited highest number of nodules at flowering and pod filling stage, 20 and 41 nodules, TARI GRAM 2 variety had 15 and 33.3. nodules, Nuru variety had 10.3 and 20 nodules while Imara variety had 11.67 and 26 nodules respectively. This indicated TARI GRAM 1 variety had superior nodulation potential and nitrogen fixation potential to improve soil fertility and crop yield in mungbean cultivation followed by TARI GRAM 2 variety. Therefore, TARI GRAM 1 and TARI GRAM 2 varieties are recommended for farmers looking to enhance soil fertility in Mungbean cultivation. The increased number of nodules on Mungbean plants leads to higher rates of nitrogen fixation efficiency resulting in greater nutrient availability in the soil as well as the overall soil fertility and sustainability.Higher Education Students' Loan Boar

Evaluation of food safety knowledge among food service workers and microbial contamination of food contact surfaces in University Restaurants in Morogoro Tanzania

Journal ArticleFoodborne illnesses, a significant global health concern, are primarily attributable to microbial contamination. Inadequate food handling, substandard safety measures, and a lack of awareness exacerbate this issue. This study aimed to evaluate the food safety knowledge of food service workers and the microbial status of food contact surfaces in university restaurants in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania. A cross-sectional study was conducted, employing a structured questionnaire and observational checklist. A total of 40 food service workers from four University restaurants participated. Standard methodologies for microbial analysis were employed to determine the Total Viable Count and Total Coliform Count, which indicated the degree of microbiological contamination on food-contact surfaces. SPSS version 27 was used to compute the frequency and percentages. Results demonstrate that the majority of respondents exhibited exemplary hygienic practices, with 50% regularly washing hands during meal preparations and 92.5% recognizing the importance of a clean workspace. All participants (100%) utilized protective gloves and were more cognizant of the hazards of handling food without them. In terms of food safety awareness, Mzumbe University led with a mean score of 92.80±7.495, reflecting strong food safety knowledge, while Jordan University had the lowest mean of 68.40±5.15, indicating notable gaps in training and practices. Surprisingly, Mzumbe University restaurants exhibited the highest level of microbiological contamination, with spoons and plates demonstrating Total Viable Count values of 4.75 and 4.61 log10CFU/ml, respectively, despite a superior score in food safety knowledge that was obtained. Total coliform contamination on food surfaces was detected in various campus restaurants, with levels ranging from 2.81 to 3.79 log10CFU/ml, highlighting the necessity for enhanced sanitation measures. To enhance food safety in university restaurants, comprehensive training for food service staff on hygiene and food safety is essential. Implementing routine microbial monitoring, strict cleaning protocols, and regular safety audits can significantly reduce foodborne illness risks and ensure a safe dining environment for patrons

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

The nexus between school environment and pupils’ learning outcomes within the framework of the unlock literacy program in Handeni district, Tanzania

Journal articleThis study employs a quasi-experimental design to examine the influence of the school environment on pupils' learning outcomes within the Unlock Literacy Program in Handeni District. Data from 200 pupil respondents were collected through surveys and key informant interviews with teachers. The analysis utilized STATA 17 software for descriptive statistics to assess educational infrastructure and resources and ordinal regression to evaluate the school environment's impact on pupil learning outcomes. The findings indicate significant disparities in access to infrastructure and resources between treatment and control groups. Treatment schools had superior access to toilet facilities, classroom conditions, books, and libraries, with 37.5% having good classroom environments and similar percentages reflecting adequate book and library access. In contrast, control schools exhibited deficiencies, with 50% reporting inadequate books and 37.5% lacking library facilities. Ordinal regression revealed that factors like teacher encouragement, peer interaction, homework management, borrowing books, and engaging in fun activities significantly improved learning outcomes when integrated into a structured program. Conversely, the absence of such support led to less effective or negative impacts on pupils’ learning. Based on these findings, the study recommends adopting structured educational programs integrating supportive activities like teacher encouragement and peer interactions to enhance learning. Emphasizing positive teacher-pupil relationships through targeted training, improving access to essential resources, and regularly evaluating educational programs are crucial for fostering effective educational environments and improving pupil success

Integrated agricultural development strategies: assessing forage and seed supply chain dynamics at vikuge pasture seed farm, Kibaha, Tanzania

Proceedings of the 6th Scientific Conference of Rangeland Society of Tanzania (RST) held at EDEMA Hotel, Morogoro Tanzania 15th and 16th April, 2024, pp. 7-40This study investigated the integrated agricultural development practices at Vikuge Pasture Seed Farm in Kibaha, Tanzania, focusing on the supply and commercialization of forage and seeds. It identified critical challenges that hampered effective FRPPHUFLDOL]DWLRQ DQG VRXJKW WR HOXFLGDWH KRZ WKH IDUP¶V practices influenced local agricultural dynamics. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 96 respondents through key informant interviews and focus group discussions, supplemented by a thorough literature review. A market system and value chain approach were adopted to analyze the flow of inputs from production to consumption, aiming to uncover the interconnected activities that enhance economic viability. Statistical findings revealed a remarkable 25% increase in annual revenue attributed to innovative agronomic practices and market-oriented strategies, underscoring the strong economic feasibility of the farm's operations. Qualitative insights from the focus group discussions highlighted the socio-economic implications of integrated practices, indicating improved access to high-quality forage seeds, enhanced livestock productivity, and positive ripple effects on local economies. Participants reported increased income and job creation, validating the transformative potential of integrated agricultural development initiatives. This study not only contributes to the understanding of commercialization strategies in Tanzanian agriculture but also provides empirical support for policy frameworks aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural practices that can elevate local livelihoods and economic resilience

Effect of solvent extraction on phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave (wild)

J. Current Opinion Crop Sci. PP: 27-41Seasonal aromatic Lamiaceae shrub Ocimum suave has insecticidal and therapeutic bioactive compounds. The plant's phytochemical profile and effective solvents for extraction have limited information, despite its potential as a sustainable pest management alternative. The phytochemical composition and quantification of solvent-extracted Ocimum suave leaves, stems, roots, and combined samples were examined. The plant samples were obtained at Dakawa-Mvomero. A laboratory-based experimental design was employed to assess the effect of different extraction solvents on the phytochemical profile and quantification of bioactive compounds in Ocimum suave. A completely randomized design (CRD) was used with three replications to minimize experimental error and increase the reliability of the results. Alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, terpenoids, and essential oils were detected in plant samples using methanol, dichloromethane (DCM), n-hexane, and distilled water-extraction solvents. Samples underwent standard quantification chemical tests. Saponins (p=0.027), essential oils (p=0.018), and alkaloids (0.018) showed significant differences. These findings demonstrate that solvent type significantly impacts compound extraction efficiency. Root tannins were concentrated at 3.51mg/l and stem at 3.36mg/l with methanol. Leaf, stem, and root terpenoids were highly concentrated in dichloromethane 7.20% and n-hexane 5.80% extracts. Dichloromethane 6.50%, methanol 6.20%, and nhexane 6.10% concentrated essential oils from all plant parts. Saponins in roots, stems, and leaves were 5.60% concentrated with distilled water. N-hexane solvent concentrated leaf flavonoids (4.55%) and stem alkaloids (3.25%). The findings emphasise solvent choice in phytochemical yields and suggest Ocimum suave may be an eco-friendly pesticid

Women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management interventions in Chemba district, Tanzania

Journal articleThis study examined the nature of women groundnut farmers’ participation in aflatoxin management interventions in Chemba District in Tanzania. The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods research design involving quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Data were collected using a survey of 137 women groundnut farmers. Also, qualitative data were collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and content analysis. Specifically, 66.5% of women respondents were involved in the aflatoxin management interventions currently being implemented in the study area, while 33.5% reported no participation in such interventions. Also, the findings show that the recent TANIPAC project interventions were perceived positively to bring anticipated positive economic changes and lessen aflatoxin contamination in the food system. Overall, women's participation in interventions is crucial for effectively managing aflatoxin and reducing contamination within the food system

Farmers’ attitudes and challenges in organic spice farming: a case study of the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania

The sub Saharan Journal of Social Sciences and Humanities (SJSSH), pp. 41-50Despite Tanzania's economic reforms and rising global demand for organic spices, smallholder farmers in the Uluguru Mountains face significant barriers to sustainable organic spice production, including fungal diseases, market exploitation, and post-harvest losses. This cross-sectional mixed-methods study (n=120 farmers, 11 key informants) in Morogoro District employed descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, and logistic regression to examine farmers’ attitudes and challenges. Results revealed that 47.5% of farmers held favourable attitudes toward organic farming (95% citing environmental benefits, 84.2% premium prices), while 45% expressed unfavourable views due to economic constraints. Logistic regression showed that male farmers (OR=6.63, 95% CI: 2.43–18.09, p<0.001) and those with secondary education (OR=19.85, 95% CI: 2.20–179.23, p=0.008) were significantly more likely to have favourable attitudes, while market inefficiencies (OR=0.29, 95% CI: 0.12–0.73, p=0.008) and inadequate storage (OR=0.33, 95% CI: 0.11–0.99, p=0.047) reduced this likelihood. Key challenges included fungal diseases (84.5% prevalence; χ²=25.909, p<0.001), middlemen-driven market inefficiencies (64.9%), and poor storage facilities (24.1%). Grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior, these findings highlight how socio-demographic disparities and structural barriers shape farmers’ engagement with organic practices. The study recommends disease-resistant crop varieties, improved storage infrastructure, farmer cooperatives, and gender-inclusive training to enhance the viability and equity of organic spice farming, aligning with Tanzania’s sustainable development goals

Influence of relative user satisfaction on sustainability of climate change adaptation practices: insights from Chamwino and Igunga agro-ecological zones, Tanzania

Journal ArticleThe aim of this study was to examine the influence of Relative User Satisfaction (RUS) on the sustainability of Climate Change Adaptation (CCA) practices in egro-ecological zones of Tanzania. Supported by the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), this study focus on determining the influence of self-efficacy, subjective norms, usage experience, perceived risks, output quality, results demonstrability, perceived image, compatibility, usability and relevance, on sustainability of CCA practices. The study employed a cross sectional research design , involving 295 respondents who are households heads adopted CCA practices in Chamwino and Igunga districts, with data collected through household questionnaires, Focus group discussions (FGDs), and key informant interviews (KIIs). Statistical analyses, including Descriptive statistics, Multiple Correspondence Analysis (MCA) and Multivariate Ordered Probit model (MOVP) were performed. Results from the descriptive analysis indicated high preference of practices including Trees Planting and use of Farmyard manure after funding, reasons being their simplicity, immediate benefits and alignment with local knowledge. The findings from inferential analysis revealed that self-efficacy, perceived image, subjective norms, usability and usage experience were positively and statistically influencing the sustainability of CCA practices after funding period. Results from Multivariate Ordered Probit revealed Self-efficacy to have significant influence on soil water conservation practices (β = 1.07, p < 0.001), Trees planting (β = 1.02, p < 0.001) and the use of farmyard manure (β = 0.99, p < 0.001). Perceived image was also found statistical significant in influencing practices, with statistical significance p-value of 0.001. Subjective norms was found crucial in influencing Ox-drain tillage practices (β = 0.99, p < 0.001), while usage experience and usability showed moderate effects with statistical significance p-value of 0.01 and 0.05 respectively. The study finds that Self-efficacy, Perceived image, Subjective norms and Usage experience serves as essential RUS factors in influencing the sustainability of CCA practices after funding period. The study concludes that, ensuring sustainability of the practices require enhancing community participation, simplicity of the practices and consideration of socio-economic factors. The study proposes establishment of targeted training, role models system, incentive systems, monitoring frameworks and user-friendly guidelines to enhance self-efficacy, social influence, and Usability for long-term implementatio