The Rural Planning Journal (RPJ) is an international, double-blind peer-reviewed journal that publishes cutting-edge research of interest relating to rural development planning. Thematic areas of interest include Rural Development; Poverty Reduction; Development Planning and Management; Economic and Investment Planning; Agriculture, Food Security and Nutrition; Environment, Climate Change and Energy; Population and Development; and, Cross-Cutting Issues. Specific focus areas include public policies, social services, agriculture, regional planning, public health, development finance, environment, gender, governance, business and entrepreneurship, and natural resources management. RPJ publishes twice a year in June and December.
Socioeconomic and Environmental Factors Affecting Food Security among Smallholder rice farmers in Kahama District, Tanzania
This study explores the impact of socioeconomic and environmental factors on food security among smallholder rice farmers in Kahama District, Tanzania. A random sampling technique was employed to gather data from 460 smallholder rice farmers through structured questionnaires. Socio-demographic characteristics reveal that the majority of smallholder farmers were male (74.2%), had primary education (57.9%), were aged between 46-55 years (32.9%), earned a monthly income of less than TZS 200,000 (72.3%) and a majority of smallholder farmers used local seeds (86.7%). Interestingly, 62% sold their rice post-harvest, despite 60.87% acknowledging the importance of maintaining an adequate rice stock for food security. Regression analysis revealed farm credit (β=0.258, p<0.05) and farm size (β=0.151, p<0.001) as positively influencing rice stock. Age showed a marginally positive association (β=0.045, p<0.10), while non-farm income (β=−0.085, p<0.05) and household size (β=−0.075, p<0.05) had negative impacts. Stable temperatures (β=0.115, p<0.05) and high rainfall (β=0.257, p<0.001) also positively correlated with rice stock. The findings suggest that increasing farm size and access to credit can enhance rice production while also addressing climate change concerns. The study recommends smallholder farmers focus on expanding farm size and utilizing farm credit to enhance rice production while adapting to climate change effects. Policy implications stemming from our findings include promoting access to agricultural credit, implementing supportive land policies, and providing extension services to improve farming techniques and management of larger farms to bolster food security among smallholder rice farmers in Kahama and similar regions.
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Climate-Smart Aquaculture Adoption in Rural Areas around Lake Victoria, Tanzania: Gender, Socioeconomic, and Institutional Influences
Climate-Smart Aquaculture (CSAq) is increasingly recognized as a sustainable adaptation strategy to enhance aquaculture productivity, resource efficiency, and climate resilience. However, socioeconomic and institutional constraints continue to shape CSAq adoption patterns, particularly among smallholder farmers. This study examines the determinants of CSAq adoption in Tanzania’s Lake Zone, using a Multinomial Logit (MNL) model to analyze survey data from 384 fish farmers. The model assesses the likelihood of adopting Integrated Aquaculture-Agriculture (IAA), Polyculture, or Monoculture (baseline category) based on household characteristics, financial access, extension services, and education levels. The findings reveal that household size (p < 0.05), education level (p < 0.05), financial grants (p < 0.01), and extension services (p < 0.01) significantly influenced CSAq adoption. Larger households and better-educated farmers were more likely to adopt IAA, while financial support and extension services were associated with higher Monoculture adoption rather than CSAq. This suggests that current institutional support structures may be reinforcing conventional single-species fish farming rather than promoting climate-resilient aquaculture models. Gender was not statistically significant, indicating that CSAq adoption disparities are more closely linked to financial and institutional constraints rather than direct gender-based preferences. These findings highlight the urgent need to realign financial incentives, extension programs, and training initiatives to promote climate-smart aquaculture adoption. Policies should prioritize CSAq financing models, and integrate climate-smart training into extension services. Strengthening institutional support mechanisms and enhancing smallholder farmers' access to CSAq knowledge and resources will be critical for achieving climate resilience, food security, and rural economic development in Tanzania’s aquaculture sector.
Implications of Urban-to-Rural Migration and Dual Residency on Farmland Access: Insights from Njombe Town and Mufindi District Councils, Tanzania
This study explores the impact of urban-to-rural migration and dual residency on smallholder farmers’ farmland access in Tanzania’s Njombe Town and Mufindi District Councils. Despite growing urban-rural linkages, the effect of urban-to-rural migration on rural land dynamics remains understudied. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 494 smallholder farmers across six villages, supplemented by interviews with urban dwellers (n=30), dual residents (n=20), and key informants (n=15). Results show a significant influx of urban dwellers (99.2%) and dual residents engaging in commercial agriculture (e.g., timber, avocado), acquiring large land tracts (98%). This drives economic benefits like job creation and technology transfer (77.3% positive perceptions) but exacerbates land scarcity (93.7%) and conflicts (83.9%). Chi-square tests confirmed significant associations (χ²=50.639, df=8, p<0.05) between migration and reduced farmland access. Women and youth face disproportionate barriers due to customary tenure. While migration fosters agricultural transformation, it threatens smallholder livelihoods. Policymakers should implement land ceilings, cooperative ownership, and training programs. Future research should explore gendered impacts and alternative income sources (e.g., agro-tourism).
Determinants for Community Participation in Decision-making in Local Government Authorities (LGAs): Experience from Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania
Community participation in decision-making is among the universal human rights recognised from the global to the local level as stipulated in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UNDHR) of 1948, Articles 1 and 2; and in the United Republic of Tanzania's constitution of 1977, Article 18. Tanzania has been enhancing community participation in decision-making at the local level through the decentralisation process and local government reforms. The study, therefore, assessed the determinants for community participation in decision-making in LGAs. A sample of 105 participants was used. Data were collected using interviews, observations, focus group discussions and documentary review methods. Data were analysed through descriptive and Binary logistic regression models. The findings from the study found that more than 90% of community members are accessing invitations for decision-making meetings, whereby about 66% of all community members participate in the decision-making process. The variables included in the binary logistic regression model were predictors of participation in decision-making process by 62% in which education level, occupation, access to information on participation in the decision-making meeting, believing that feedback for public inputs is provided by LGAs and a sense of ownership of the plans were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The study recommends that policymakers and lower local government officials should come up with proper approaches to attract more community members in decision-making, especially women and youth. There should also be efforts among LGAs and other development partners in providing civic education for enhancing community understanding of the importance and the process of decision-making at LGAs.
Can Mobile Phones Bridge the Information Gap? An Assessment of Mobile Phone Usage and Agricultural Market Information Access for Smallholder Farmers in Kasulu District, Tanzania
Agriculture forms the economic foundation of rural Tanzania, yet smallholder farmers’ access to timely and accurate agricultural market information remains limited, undermining their bargaining power and income. While mobile phone technology is widely regarded as a tool to connect farmers with markets, empirical evidence of its impact in regions like Kasulu District is lacking. This study examined the effect of mobile phone usage on agricultural market information access among 315 smallholder farmers in Kasulu, Tanzania, addressing three objectives: assessing the level of information access; evaluating mobile phone usage’s influence and, exploring socio-demographic moderators (age, sex, marital status, education). A cross-sectional survey design utilised multi-stage clustered random sampling, with data collected via structured interviews (Kobo Collect) and analysed through descriptive statistics and ordered logistic regression. Findings indicated 86.67% of households had low to moderate market information access. Mobile phone usage significantly improved access (OR = 1.90, p< 0.01), with sex moderating this relationship: female-headed households exhibited stronger effects (p= 0.05), while other factors showed no significant impact. The study concludes that mobile phones are pivotal in bridging information gaps, particularly for women, and recommends promoting mobile technology adoption alongside gender-sensitive interventions to enhance equitable access. These insights inform policies aimed at reducing information asymmetry and fostering sustainable agricultural development in Tanzania.
The Role of Voluntary Financial Saving Groups in Promoting Rural Entrepreneurship: Evidence from Kilolo and Iringa Districts
The research investigates the role of Voluntary Financial Saving Groups (VFSGs) in promoting rural entrepreneurship with evidence from Kilolo and Iringa districts in the Iringa region. Specifically, it examines three objectives (i) to determine the effect of VFSG practices on rural enterprise growth, (ii) to establish the relationship between the entrepreneurial culture of members of VFSGs and rural enterprise growth, and (iii) to examine the influence of entrepreneurship education on rural enterprise growth. Adoption of a cross-sectional design was considered applicable whereas a mixed research approach comprising quantitative and qualitative data was adopted as well. Proportionately from strata of Kilolo and Iringa districts, a sample of 262 members of VFSGs was drawn. Quantitative data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, whereas qualitative data were collected using focus group discussions and in-depth interviews. Content analysis was considered useful for qualitative data, while descriptive statistics and logit model were performed in the quantitative data analysis. The research results discovered that VFSG practices were statistically significant but negative (p=0.000) in influencing enterprise growth. Similarly, entrepreneurship education was statistically significant but negative (p=0.002) in influencing enterprise growth. Further, entrepreneurial culture was significantly positive (p=0.0050 in influencing enterprise growth. Likewise, entrepreneurial behaviour was significantly positive (p=0.001) in influencing enterprise growth. The study recommends that Kilolo and Iringa District Councils, through trade and cooperative officers as well as other development stakeholders like the Institute of Rural Development (IRDP), collaboratively design relevant training programmes in numerous areas such as proper VFSG practices, entrepreneurship, business and investment skills as empowerment strategies for VFSG members.
Factors influencing parents and caregivers’ engagement in school feeding programmes in Nzega District, Tanzania
This study examined factors influencing parents’ and caregivers’ engagement in School Feeding Programmes (SFPs). The study was conducted in Uduka Ward, in Nzega District, Tanzania. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and collected data through interviews and documentary review methods. The study involved 227 respondents, 219 parents and caregivers, and 8 key informants who were systematically and purposively selected, respectively. Interviewers administered a questionnaire to collect primary data. The collected data were subjected to binary logistic regression and descriptive statistics analysis. The study observed that education level, income, number of income sources, attitude towards primary education, and awareness of SFPs significantly influenced the engagement of parents and caregivers in SFPs through contributions. The study concludes that several factors have a significant influence on parents’ and caregivers' engagement in SFPs. These factors include income, number of income sources, education level, attitude towards education and SFPs, all of which have a positive association with their engagement in SFP. The study recommends enhancing the efficacy of the programme and the engagement of parents and caregivers through workshops and information sharing sessions, the Ministry responsible for Education and Vocation Training can cultivate a better understanding on how SFPs positively affects pupils’ health and educational performance, thereby increasing participation and support for SFPs. To boost parents’ and caregivers’ engagement in school feeding initiatives, it is advisable to the responsible ministries to improve individuals’ education level, households’ income and launch targeted awareness raising and mindset change campaigns on provided education and the school feeding programmes.
Adoption and Economic Benefits of Harvest and Post-Harvest Loss Management Technologies in the Maize and Rice Value Chain in Tanzania
Reducing harvests and post-harvest losses is among the government's priority agenda to address the challenges of food security, poverty, and nutrition in Tanzania. Using survey data from different actors along the maize and rice value chain in Tanzania, this study (1) assessed the advanced technologies and traditional technology for managing crop harvest losses adopted by smallholder farmers and market actors, (2) determined the crop losses at different actors in the value chain, (3) evaluated the willingness of actors in adopting the technologies for crop harvest and post-harvest technology, and (4) assessed the economic benefits of advanced technologies and traditional technology for post-harvest losses in the study area. The study employed a cross-sectional research design whereby the interview method was used for data collection. Mult-stage random sampling techniques with three stages were employed to select a sample of 180 respondents. Data analysis employed in this paper included both descriptive and inferential analysis. The results indicate that the majority of respondents used traditional technology for crop harvest practices and advanced technology for post-harvest practices. The results also show that respondents who use advanced technology incur a lower loss than those who use traditional technology. The results also show that the majority of actors experience difficulties with the availability, accessibility, and affordability of the advanced technology, although they use it in post-harvest practice. The binary probit model result indicates that age, education, and value chain economic activities significantly influence an actor's decision to adopt technology for harvest and post-harvest losses. Therefore, the government should provide subsidies for crop harvesting technology, especially combined harvesters, to enhance availability, accessibility, and affordability for farmers. Moreover, the agricultural development programs should focus on creating education, awareness on crop harvest and post-harvest loss technologies for reducing loss.
Avocado Farming in Southern Highlands and its Inherent Threats on Staple Crops Access in Tanzania; A Case of Njombe Urban and Njombe District, Tanzania
There has been increased emphasis on avocado production in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania, accompanied by a noticeable shift in farmers' interests from the cultivation of major staple crops to avocado farming. This trend poses a threat to household food access in the Southern Highlands and in other regions of Tanzania that rely on staple crops sourced from these areas. This study was conducted in the Njombe Region with the objective of assessing the rapid expansion of avocado farming in the Southern Highlands and its inherent threats to food access in Tanzania. Primary data were collected through household surveys, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews, while secondary data were obtained through a review of official records. A sample of 385 respondents was used. The results indicated that avocado cultivation is increasingly focused on export-oriented varieties rather than those consumed domestically; the flourishing of avocado farming has led to the conversion of land previously used for staple crop production; the land allocated to avocado farming has been increasing while land for food crop production has been decreasing; and the production of major staple crops is declining amidst the expansion of avocado farming. Projections for 2030 reveal a potentially devastating impact on staple crop production, further threatening food access in other regions of the country. Based on these findings, the study recommends that policymakers and decision-makers take precautionary measures and design appropriate policies and interventions to ensure that the promotion of avocado farming goes hand in hand with the promotion of staple crop production, encourage intensive farming practices to achieve high yields on relatively small plots of land, and provide subsidies for inputs used in staple crop production to encourage continued farmer engagement in this essential sector.
Three Decades of Land Use and Land Cover Changes in Mjini Magharibi, Zanzibar, Tanzania: Implications on the Coastal Mangrove Forest Ecosystems and Urban Development
Mangroves are vital coastal ecosystems that serve as natural barriers against erosion, support diverse marine life, and play a crucial role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration. This study uses remote sensing techniques to examine land use and land cover (LULC) changes in Mjini Magharibi, Zanzibar, from 1994 to 2024. The classification of LULC changes using Landsat images achieved high accuracy in thematic mapping, with overall accuracy and kappa coefficients ranging from 79.7% to 92.5%. The results revealed significant landscape transformations with environmental sustainability and coastal management implications. Furthermore, the results depicted a consistent increase in areas covered with water bodies, from 20,736.27 ha in 1994 to 22,422.51 ha in 2024, suggesting potential sea level rise and coastal land erosion. Concurrently, bare soil and built-up areas expanded from 1,981.44 ha to 3,406.14 ha, indicating rapid urbanization. The study highlights a substantial decrease in mangrove and dense forest cover, with a loss of approximately 35.5% over 30 years, posing significant ecological and socioeconomic challenges. Sparse vegetation and farmland areas also decreased, while mixed land uses increased, reflecting the diversification of land use patterns. These changes underscore the adverse pressure of urban expansion on natural resources, including pristine beaches, mangrove areas, and marine ecosystems. The findings emphasise the urgent need for sustainable management practices and conservation initiatives to protect the remaining mangrove forests, mitigate land use change impacts, and ensure the long-term ecological balance of Mjini Magharibi's mangrove ecosystems.
Navigating the Nexus between Agricultural Transformation, Food Security, and Climate Change in Rural Development in Tanzania
The rural landscape is home to 65% of Tanzania’s population, who heavily rely on agriculture as their main source of food and income. Agriculture employs 65% of the workforce and contributes 128% of food security. However, as the Household Budget Survey 2017/18 shows, some parts of rural areas are faced with extreme poverty, with a 31.3% poverty incidence and 9.7% extreme food poverty, compared to 15.8% and 4.4% in urban areas, respectively. This editorial uses a desk review of the literature and secondary data to synthesize the findings from the special issue in exploring the nexus of agricultural transformation, food security, and climate change. Smallholder-dominated agriculture, characterized by low productivity and rain-fed systems, struggles with climate variability, land tenure issues, and limited mechanization. Transformation towards market-oriented and climate-smart farming is critical. However, it is hindered by resource constraints and post-harvest losses among other things. Food insecurity, exacerbated by climate shocks, manifests in many different ways, including malnutrition and low dietary diversity, with 35% of under-five children stunted. Climate change threatens yields and pastoral livelihoods, potentially reducing economic growth. This editorial paper advocates integrated strategies, such as promoting climate-smart agriculture (CSA), irrigation, commercialization, and youth engagement, to enhance resilience and sustainability. Private sector involvement and mind-set shifts among farmers are essential for inclusive rural development, ensuring food security and climate adaptation in the evolving agricultural landscape.
Factors Influencing Adolescent-Parent Communication on Sexual Reproductive Health: A Case of Chamwino District, Dodoma Region in Tanzania
Adolescent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is a critical public health challenge in Tanzania, where 27% of girls aged 15-19 have begun childbearing. Effective adolescent-parent communication can reduce SRH risks, yet cultural and relational barriers persist. This study explores factors influencing adolescent-parent communication in Chamwino District, Dodoma Region, using a cross-sectional survey of 250 adolescents aged 10-19 in Buigiri and Manchali wards, analyzed with IBM-SPSS v25. Findings show 66% engage in SRH discussions, with key drivers including prior SRH awareness (Odds Ratio=21.0, meaning adolescents unaware are 21 times more likely to discuss with parents compared to those aware), preference for mothers over fathers (Odds Ratio=0.09, indicating a lower likelihood of discussion), poor parent-adolescent relationships (lower likelihood), and limited communication skills (higher likelihood). Qualitative interviews with parents, health workers, and teachers highlight cultural norms and resource constraints as barriers. We recommend culturally sensitive SRH education, communication training, and father engagement initiatives through schools, health centers, and religious institutions to enhance dialogue and reduce SRH risks in rural Tanzania
Determinants of Inequality in Stunting among Children Aged Between 0-23 Months in Tanzania
Globally, approximately 149 million children suffer from stunting, a condition linked to long-term health, economic, and cognitive disadvantages. In Tanzania, despite a 4% reduction in stunting rates between 2015 and 2022, disparities persist, particularly among socioeconomically disadvantaged groups. This study explores the determinants of stunting inequality among aged 0-23 months using data from the 2022 Tanzania Demographic and Health Survey (TDHS). A secondary analysis of 2,158 children revealed a concentration index of -0.0348 (95% CI: -0.0573, -0.0123), indicating stunting disproportionately affects the poor. Decomposition analysis, using concentration curves, highlighted key factors: children aged 18-23 months were 2.40 times more likely to be stunted than those aged 0-5 months, while second-to-fourth-born children were 37% less likely than firstborns. Maternal primary education increased stunting odds by 39% compared to no education, and unimproved toilet facilities raised the risk by 51%. Protective factors included normal birth weight (25.76% contribution), breastfeeding (-7.78%), and vaccination (2.19%). These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions addressing sanitation, maternal education, and early nutrition to reduce stunting disparities.
Monitoring and Hotspots Identification of Invasive Salvinia molesta in Mwanza Gulf Using Remote Sensing Technique
Invasive plants, such as aquatic macrophytes, pose environmental challenges that require immediate attention, as they can cause considerable economic and social-ecological damage if left to spread. The invasion of Salvinia molesta (S.molesta) along the Gulf of Mwanza, Lake Victoria, was recently reported. Thus, this study focused on detecting and monitoring its presence in the Gulf of Mwanza waters, quantifying the extent of infestation, monitoring its spatiotemporal distribution from 2020 to 2025, and identifying the hotspots. The study applied a remote sensing technique using multispectral imagery from Sentinel-2, a Support Vector Machine, coupled with freely available high-resolution imagery delivered by Google Earth Pro. Three classes, namely water, S.molesta, and built-up areas, were employed in the analysis, which yielded satisfactory findings with overall accuracy metrics consistently exceeding 98.5% and Kappa coefficients greater than 0.985, confirming the reliability of the methodology for the operational detection of S.molesta invasion along Lake Victoria. The results revealed an alarming increase in S.molesta infestation along the Gulf of Mwanza, with approximately 7.72 km² coverage portraying a 60.3% increase over the past five years. Moreover, the edges of the Kigongo-Busisi Bridge were identified as highly significant hotspot locations for S.molesta infestation. These hotspots were aligned with field observations, suggesting an existing link to potential nutrient-rich runoff originating from adjacent agricultural and residential areas. This study has generated vital information for the responsible authorities to institute management strategies geared towards combating the escalation of S. S.molesta invasion in Lake Victoria.
Attitudes and Practices on the Adoption of Conservation Agriculture among Smallholder Farmers in Bahi District
Conservation Agriculture (CA) has gained prominence worldwide, with its principles including minimum soil disturbance, maintaining soil cover and crop rotation. However, in some areas, the adoption is still low. Therefore, this study explored smallholder farmers’ attitudes and practices on the adoption of CA at Msisi, Babayu, Zanka and Mundemu wards in Bahi district. The study sample size was 379 respondents, obtained using stratified and simple random sampling techniques. Also, the purposive sampling technique was used to select agricultural field officers, ward executive officers and village chairpersons as key informants. A structured survey through questionnaires was used to collect data from smallholder farmers, and in-depth interviews through checklist were used to collect data from key informants. A cross-tabulation with a Chi-square test (at the 5% level of significance) was used to test the relationship between sex and education level of respondents to the adoption of CA. Quantitative data were analysed using IBM-SPSS statistics version 25 computer programme in which descriptive statistics (mean, minimum, maximum, frequency and percentage) were analysed. Also, thematic analysis was used for qualitative data. The study found that respondents had neutral attitude, indicated by mean scores between 2.5 to 3.4. The study further revealed that only 17.4% of the respondents practice CA whereby minimum soil disturbance and maintaining soil cover are commonly used. Maize, millet and groundnut claimed to perform better under CA. Moreover, the study highlights pests, wild bird attacks, and erratic rainfall patterns as major challenges smallholder farmers encountered during CA implementation. The study recommends that local government through agricultural extension officers and agricultural field officers in collaboration with non-government organization should continue with the provision of knowledge about CA benefits to farmers to encourage its implementation.
Consumer Preferences for Rural Periodic Markets and Their Influence on Commodity Access: Insights from Selected Market Centers in Magu District, Tanzania.
Rural periodic markets play a vital role in shaping the social fabric, economy, and daily lives of rural communities, and they also act as fundamental building blocks within the complex marketplace exchange system in rural areas. However, despite their importance and the opportunities they present, consumers continue to face several critical challenges in utilizing these markets effectively. This study was conducted at Sola, Mahaha, Kabila, and Magu periodic markets in Magu District to assess consumers’ preferences for rural periodic markets, understand the factors influencing their buying behavior, and explore their perceived effects on access to commodities. A simple random sampling technique was used to select 236 consumers. Multiple responses, binary logistic regression, and the likert scale were used for analysis. The findings revealed that manufactured goods were more preferred by consumers in rural periodic markets compared to agricultural and livestock products. This preference was largely influenced by factors such as product availability, affordability, and the convenience of the market’s location. Most consumers acknowledged that rural periodic markets played a positive role in improving their access to essential commodities. Nevertheless, despite these benefits, the study identified several challenges faced by consumers, particularly price fluctuations, inadequate market facilities, and an unfavorable market environment, which collectively affected their overall purchasing experience. Thus, enhancing rural periodic markets in Magu District requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates infrastructure development, market organization, access to financial and information services, and inclusive policy support. By addressing these areas holistically, periodic markets can become vibrant economic hubs that contribute significantly to rural livelihoods, food security, and sustainable local development.
Agriculture and Manufactured commoditues
Disclosure of HIV Positive Test Results and Clients’ awareness of the Advantages of Sharing the Results. A Case of three selected Care and Treatment Clinics (CTC) in Zanzibar
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) status disclosure is an important approach pursued in the Voluntary Counselling and Testing (VCT) services, hospitals, and Care and Treatment Clinics (CTCs) to prevent the spread of HIV. This study aimed to examine drivers for HIV-positive results disclosure and clients' awareness on the benefits of disclosing the HIV positive test results. The study was conducted in Zanzibar, focusing on clients attending for care and treatment at Mwembeladu, Fuoni, and Makunduchi Care and Treatment Clinics (CTCs) and data were collected from 210 clients attending CTCs. Collected data were analysed using descriptive statistics and crosstabulation. The results showed that the majority (92.6%) of People Living with HIV (PLWHIV) prefer to disclose their HIV status to partners or people with a formal relationship, the majority (100%) who initially tested HIV in the hospital disclosed the results and 87.7% who tested at TVC also disclosed, and the disclosure rate had no significant variation by gender. This study observed a high HIV disclosure rate (88%) among PLWHIV in Fuomi ward, Zanzibar, driven by awareness of benefits like partner discussions and care access. However, 46.7% of respondents remain unaware of these benefits, indicating a need for enhanced education and support. The study recommends that stakeholders like ministries and departments responsible for public health, particularly on HIV related issues should launch community-based campaigns (e.g., radio programmes, peer-led workshops) to raise awareness of disclosure benefits. Healthcare providers should receive regular training on counselling techniques to support PLWHIV in overcoming stigma and fear of discrimination.
Economic Drivers Influencing Oil Palm Farmers’ Decision to Sell Fresh Fruit Bunches Instead of Processing in Kigoma District, Tanzania
Palm oil processing plays a crucial role in driving economic growth, especially in regions where oil palm farming dominates agriculture. By converting raw materials into valuable products, palm oil processing supports local economic development, generates employment, and boosts trade competitiveness. In this context, the study sought to examine the economic drivers that influence oil palm farmers' decisions to sell or process Fresh Fruit Bunches (FFBs) in Kigoma, Tanzania. A cross-sectional survey design was employed in this study, whereby data were collected from 199 farmers in Simbo and Bitale wards through questionnaires and interviews with a guide. A combination of purposive and simple random sampling techniques was used to select respondents. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) described the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents, while the binary probit model examined economic drivers influencing the choice to sell FFBS versus processing them. The findings revealed that factors such as high processing costs, limited credit access, household income, larger farm sizes, production volumes, and labour availability influence bulk sales. The study recommends enhancing access to processing technologies, financial literacy initiatives, and targeted subsidies to encourage value addition.
Effectiveness of the Ward Tribunal in Resolving Land Conflicts in Rapidly Urbanising Cities in Tanzania
Land conflicts are prevalent in many urban areas globally, often stemming from rapid urbanisation, competing land uses, and population growth. This study focused on examining the effectiveness of ward tribunals in resolving land conflicts in rapidly urbanising cities in Tanzania, drawing lessons from five selected wards: Nzuguni, Kizota, Nkuhungu, Kilimani, and Mkonze in Dodoma City. The research employed a cross-sectional design and collected data from landholders, ward tribunal members, Ward Executive Officers (WEOs), land officers, and town planners from Dodoma City Council, selected through systematic and purposive sampling. Data were collected from 156 respondents using surveys, interviews, and documentary reviews. The findings indicate that sources of land conflicts across the five wards included boundary disputes, inheritance issues, land ownership, and land use rights. The results revealed that approximately 34% of conflicts were successfully resolved by ward tribunals, while the remainder were referred to the District Land and Housing Tribunal and Dodoma City Council. The low percentage of resolved land conflicts was attributed to a lack of knowledge regarding legal issues and responsibilities, as well as limited resources, which hindered their ability to mediate effectively. The study concludes that ward tribunals in the area resolve land conflicts in the area at an average level; however, improvements are needed. This highlights the necessity for comprehensive training programmes to equip ward tribunal members with legal principles and guidelines, conflict resolution skills, and ethical responsibilities, thereby empowering them to manage disputes effectively and fairly. It is essential to allocate adequate resources to support their operations, including technology, office space, and administrative support. Furthermore, there is a need to educate community members about the roles and functions of ward tribunals to build trust and encourage the utilisation of community-based land conflict resolution.
Determinants of Smallholder Participation in Sesame Farming: Evidence from Chalinze District, Tanzania
Increasing smallholder farmers' market participation in Tanzania’s agricultural industry is necessary for the sector to become more commercialized and raise their earnings and standard of living. One way to do this is by encouraging smallholder commercialization through the cultivation of cash crops. The primary justification for smallholder commercialization through cash crop production is that it can immediately raise household incomes. One excellent example in this respect is sesame in Tanzania, as its production has grown to become very popular in the coastal regions due to agroecological conditions, marketing arrangements and a high-return cash crop among households. Thus, this study was undertaken to explore the determinants influencing smallholder farmers participation in sesame farming in Chalinze District in Tanzania. A cross-sectional research design was employed in this study. Data were collected from 134 heads of households and key informants. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were employed in data analysis due to their suitability in identifying significant associations and predictive factors. Findings indicate that socio-demographic factors, including age and marital status, significantly affect participation in sesame farming (p≤0.005). Economic factors, notably market access, input costs and availability of credit (p≤0.004) positively influence participation, while institutional support from extension services, favorable government policies and cooperative support (p≤0.008) are pivotal for increasing farmer participation. The study concludes that both socio-economic and institutional dimensions are responsible for enhancing sesame farming practices and productivity. These findings offer valuable insights for policymakers and development stakeholders aiming to boost rural incomes through targeted cash crop initiatives.
Online Media Effects and Coping Strategies Among Newspaper Peddlers in Sumbawanga Municipality- Rukwa Region
This study examined the effects of online media on the well-being of printed newspaper peddlers and the coping strategies they adopt to improve their livelihoods in Sumbawanga Municipality. The study addressed two specific objectives: (1) to determine the socio-economic effects of online media on the well-being of printed newspaper peddlers and (2) to identify the coping strategies adopted by peddlers in response to the rise of online media. Data were collected through interviews, observation and documentary reviews from 108 purposively selected newspaper peddlers at distribution offices. Descriptive statistical methods (thematic analysis, multiple response analysis) and inferential statistical analysis (multiple linear regression) were employed in the analysis. On effects of the online media to the wellbeing of peddlers, the results indicate that newspaper sales (p = 0.025), income status (p = 0.016), job security (p = 0.003), stress and anxiety (p = 0.003), and social isolation (p = 0.001) all yielded p-values less than the conventional threshold of 0.05. This indicates that there is a statistically significant relationship between each of these variables and the overall well-being of newspaper peddlers. To cope with these challenges, peddlers have adopted strategies such as home and office delivery of newspapers, community engagement, business partnerships, and diversification into other printed products like and pre-primary school books. The study concludes that the decline of printed media due to online alternatives has had a notable effect on the socio-economic well-being of newspaper peddlers. To sustain their relevance, newspaper companies are advised to focus on local stories that are less likely to be found online. Additionally, peddlers should strengthen their delivery systems and expand their product range to meet changing consumer needs and remain competitive in the digital age.
Drivers of Undesirable Land Use Practices in Nzovwe River Catchment, Mbeya-Tanzania
Despite the presence of laws, guidelines and policies regulating riparian land use, the Nzovwe River catchment is facing rampant undesirable land use within 60m of the buffer zone. This study was set to investigate the drivers of undesirable land use in the catchment. Questionnaires and key informant checklists were used to collect primary data from heads of households and key informants respectively. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to perform descriptive and inferential analyses of data. A content analysis was used to analyse key informants’ data. The Geographical Information System (GIS) was used to obtain and analyse land use images of the study area. Results as per key informants’ perspective revealed that lack of political will, administrative fragmentation, limited reallocation compensation funds, law ambiguities and poor land use planning are the drivers of undesirable land use in the catchment. The heads of households argued that undesirable land use in catchment is driven by poor governance (69.4%), negligence (52.4%), ignorance (35.3%), increased demand for land (52.9%), lack of LUP (15.1%), poverty (36.7%), law ambiguities (2.4%) and lack of political will (8.3%). We recommend that the government should emphasize the enhancement of social learning, participatory LUP and research-based policies
Pluralistic Extension Services for Smallholder Farmers in Developing Countries: A Bibliometric Review on Climate-Smart Agriculture Adoption
Climate-smart agriculture (CSA) adoption remains low in developing countries due to resource constraints and weak extension systems. This bibliometric review examines how pluralistic extension services (PES) support smallholder farmers in adopting CSA practices between 1995 and 2023. We synthesized 389 documents from Scopus using Biblioshiny in R to identify publication trends, regional collaborations, emerging research themes, and institutional contributions. Findings highlight that PES plays a significant role in scaling CSA in resource-constrained environments through participatory, digital, and inclusive models. Despite exponential publication growth, adoption challenges remain due to coordination gaps, weak ICT infrastructure, and limited integration of local knowledge systems. The study concludes with insights for policymakers and researchers on strengthening PES to improve CSA uptake among smallholders in the Global South.
Violence Against Women in Lake Victoria Zone; A case of Tarime District, Tanzania
Violence against Women is a global challenge affecting the survivors of violence, their families and the country at large. While the prevention of women violence is inevitable for the wellbeing of a nation, yet its preventive measures are vested in hands of entities with limited capacity to handle. This study was conducted in Tarime, a district located in Lake Victoria Zone with the aim of investigating violence against women. Specifically, the study examined: the women’s experience of violence; the determinants of violence against women and analysed the current preventive mechanism. A random sample of 97 households were used. From these households all women aged 15 years and above were interviewed making a total of 149 interviewees. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and binary regression techniques. Finding revealed that: nearly all women had experienced at least any form of violence in their life time and a substantial proportion of women experienced violence in the past 12 months before the period of this survey. The less targeted, less extreme and those violence acts which lacked substantial public discourse were mostly reported to have been experienced by most women. Violence were more severe among women aged between 20-34; Increase in age by one year as well as being a child to the household head decreased the likelihood of respondents reporting to have experienced violence acts. Protection committees were not created as proposed by NPA-VAWC.[1] Basing on the findings, this study recommends increasing programs of awareness creation for community transformation; establish protection entities as per NPA-VAWC guideline; design and use Strategies and action plan to guide implementation. Enhance the capacity local leaders to handle violence cases and establish a harmonized system for capturing currently unreported reported incidences of violence cases. Correspondence author [1] National Plan of Action to end violence against Women
Violence against Women is a global challenge affecting the survivors of violence, their families and the country at large. While the prevention of women violence is inevitable for the wellbeing of a nation, yet its preventive measures are vested in hands of entities with limited capacity to handle. This study was conducted in Tarime, a district located in Lake Victoria Zone with the aim of investigating violence against women. Specifically, the study examined: the women’s experience of violence; the determinants of violence against women and analysed the current preventive mechanism. A random sample of 97 households were used. From these households all women aged 15 years and above were interviewed making a total of 149 interviewees. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and binary regression techniques. Finding revealed that: nearly all women had experienced at least any form of violence in their life time and a substantial proportion of women experienced violence in the past 12 months before the period of this survey. The less targeted, less extreme and those violence acts which lacked substantial public discourse were mostly reported to have been experienced by most women. Violence were more severe among women aged between 20-34; Increase in age by one year as well as being a child to the household head decreased the likelihood of respondents reporting to have experienced violence acts. Protection committees were not created as proposed by NPA-VAWC.[1] Basing on the findings, this study recommends increasing programs of awareness creation for community transformation; establish protection entities as per NPA-VAWC guideline; design and use Strategies and action plan to guide implementation. Enhance the capacity local leaders to handle violence cases and establish a harmonized system for capturing currently unreported reported incidences of violence cases. [1] National Plan of Action to end violence against Women
Violence against Women; determinant of violence; Tarime; Sexual Violence; Lake Victoria Zone.
Violence against Women is a global challenge affecting the survivors of violence, their families and the country at large. While prevention is inevitable for the wellbeing of a nation, yet its preventive measures are vested in hands of entities with limited capacity to handle. This study was conducted in Tarime, a district located in Lake Victoria Zone with the aim of investigating violence against women. Specifically, the study examined the women’s experience of violence; explored the domains under which most form of violence occurs in the household, examined the determinants of violence against women and analysed the current preventive mechanism. A random sample of 97 households were used. From these households all women aged 15 years and above were interviewed making a total of 149 interviewees. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and binary regression techniques. Finding revealed that: nearly all women had experienced at least any form of violence in their life time and a substantial proportion of women experienced violence in the past 12 months before the period of this survey. The less targeted, less extreme and those violence acts which lacked substantial public discourse were mostly reported to have been experienced by most women. Violence were more severe among women aged between 20-34; Increase in age by one year as well as being a child to the household head decreased the likelihood of respondents reporting to have experienced violence acts. Protection committees were not created as proposed by NPA-VAWC.[1] Basing on the findings, this study recommends increasing programs of awareness creation for community transformation; establish protection entities as per NPA-VAWC guideline; design and use Strategies and action plan to guide implementation. Enhance the capacity local leaders to handle violence cases and establish a harmonized system for capturing currently unreported reported incidences of violence cases.
THE ROLE OF EXPORTS AND IMPORTS IN SHAPING GROSS DOMESTIC PRODUCT (GDP) DYNAMICS
The study shows how international trade contributes to the gross domestic product dynamic in Tanzania. It employs the Autoregressive Distributive Lag Error Correction model to capture the dynamic relationship between long-term and short-term cointegration. The study used annual data ranging from 1991 to 2022 for time series model analysis, the results of the analysis show that the variables used have cointegrating and long-term equilibrium associations with GDP. After differencing once and considering three periods back goods and services exported revealed a significant and positive sign connection with GDP in the short term. Furthermore, goods and services which are imported show a significant and positive relationship with GDP in the short term. The paper also, recommends more investment should be made in production areas to promote exports, this enables maintainable and inclusive growth.
Assessment of Patient Satisfaction with Access to Healthcare Services at Mbozi District Hospital, in Songwe Region, Tanzania
This study assessed patient’s satisfaction on access to health services in public health facilities particularly at Mbozi District Hospital, using a convenience sample of 112 patients. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentary reviews. The study had two specific objectives: the first was to determine the level of customer satisfaction in accessing health services, and the second was to examine factors for patient satisfaction. Descriptive statistics were used to show the demographic characteristics of respondents and frequencies and percentages were obtained. The Likert scale was used to measure the level of patient satisfaction based on their opinions while a Multiple Linear Regression model was used to examine the determinant factors for patient satisfaction. The results revealed that the level of satisfaction was inadequate where availability of experts in the hospital, such as medical doctors and specialized doctors; staff attitude (traits towards the patient); availability of medicine, and improved sanitation infrastructure (clean washrooms) were the significant determinant factors. Therefore, more efforts should be made to improve patient satisfaction by providing better health services. The local government authorities should continuously sensitize health workers to be available at their working stations. Furthermore, the hospital Management should ensure that sanitation infrastructures, especially washrooms, are constantly cleaned and should also make follow ups to ensure medicines are always available.
Violence Against Women in Lake Victoria Zone: A Case of Tarime District, Tanzania
Violence against women is a global challenge affecting the survivors of violence, their families, and the country at large. While the prevention of violence against women is inevitable for the wellbeing of a nation, yet its preventive measures are vested in the hands of entities with limited capacity to handle it. This study was conducted in Tarime, a district located in the Lake Victoria Zone, to investigate violence against women. Specifically, the study examined the women’s experience of violence, the determinants of violence against women, and analysed the current preventive mechanism. A random sample of 97 households was used. All women aged 15 years and above were interviewed from these households, making a total of 149 interviewees. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and binary regression techniques. Findings revealed that nearly all women had experienced at least some form of violence in their lifetime, and a substantial proportion of women experienced violence in the past 12 months before the period of this survey. The less targeted, less extreme, and violent acts which lacked substantial public discourse were mostly reported to have been experienced by most women. Violence was more severe among women aged between 20-34; an increase in age by one year, as well as being a child to the household head, decreased the likelihood of respondents reporting to have experienced violent acts. Protection committees were not created as proposed by NPA- VAWC. Based on the findings, this study recommends increasing programmes of awareness creation for community transformation, establishing protection entities as per NPA-VAWC guidelines, designing and using strategies and action plans to guide implementation, enhancing the capacity of local leaders to handle violence cases, and establishing a harmonised system for capturing currently unreported incidences of violence cases.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Child Basic Immunisation Coverage in Tanzania: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis
The COVID-19 pandemic posed significant challenges to healthcare systems globally, including Tanzania, disrupting essential health services, including child basic immunisation programmes. Using an interrupted time series (ITS) analysis, we analysed how the pandemic influenced child fundamental immunisation trends across three key tears: 2020 (partial lockdown), 2021 (introduction of COVID-19 vaccination programmes), and 2022 (post-pandemic recovery phase). The results reveal a slight decline in immunisation coverage in 2020, with no significant impacts when this year is used as an intervention point. However, a sharp decline in 2021 indicates a more substantial disruption in immunisation services, coinciding with the implementation of COVID-19 vaccination campaigns. When 2021 is considered the intervention year, the study finds significant immediate and prolonged impacts, suggesting that the combination of pandemic fatigue, the reallocation of health resources, and public fear may have exacerbated the decline in immunisation rates. By 2022, immunisation coverage showed signs of recovery. These findings highlight the complex and evolving nature of the pandemic’s impact on child immunisation services. This study highlights the need for targeted interventions to restore and maintain essential health services, particularly in global health emergencies. Recommendations include improving healthcare resource allocation during crises, strengthening public health messaging, and expanding community outreach to mitigate long-term service disruptions.