Maize-haricot bean intercropping is one of the best agronomic practices in Ethiopia in general and at study area particularly. This trial in Sibu Sire district was aimed to verify maize-haricot bean intercropping pattern. The treatments were Control/without intercropping (C); Farmers practiced intercropping pattern (FPIP) and Research based intercropping pattern (RBIP). The trial was conducted in the year 2024 main cropping season on purposively selected farmers’ fields across the district. The treatments were replicated 3 times with RCBD design. Soil test based inorganic fertilizer rate was used. Soil and agronomic data were collected and analyzed. Yields and yields related parameters of maize and haricot bean were collected and analyzed. Except Plant heights, all other collected intercropped haricot bean parameters were significantly influenced by the treatments while the maize was not. Intercropping of Ibado bean variety planted during maize planting at two sides of maize rows could increases biomass and grain yields of haricot bean by about 40.59 and 48.56%, respectively compared to farmers practiced intercropping. It also resulted the highest net income (187081 birr /ha), LER (1.58) and LEC (0.63) from the former study during technology generation. Therefore, it should be recommended for farmers in the study area and similar agroecology.
The tomato is an important crop in Nakuru County, Kenya. However, its production has been declining, causing massive losses to the farmers. A survey was conducted in major tomato-growing regions to investigate the causes of losses. Tomato production was constrained by diseases such as late blight, early blight and bacterial wilt. Data was collected from one hundred and seventy-one farmers who were randomly selected within the regions and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data collected included production systems, varieties of tomatoes grown and diseases that hinder production, and control methods. Data was analyzed using R software version 4.4.1. Data was tabulated to calculate frequencies and their percentages from the counts of each response. One-way ANOVA was used to test for overall significance among the groupings. The result indicated that the majority of the farmers (96.4%) were using an open field production system compared to a greenhouse system (3.6%). The most grown varieties were Cal J (Kamongo) (20.6%), DRD F1 (20.0%), and Rio Grande (15.8%). The most important diseases affecting the tomato crops were late blight (Phytophthora infestans) (26.8%), early blight (Alternaria solani) (25.5%), and bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum) (25.0%). Farmers had access to information from sources, making them knowledgeable of farming, though there are still major gaps in knowledge of insect pests, diseases, and control methods.
Civil society organizations and community-based organizations play an increasingly important role globally in shaping natural resource governance and influencing biodiversity conservation policies. Through advocacy, policy dialogue, and partnerships with governments and development partners, these organizations help improve natural resources governance and ensure that community voices are represented in decision-making processes. Within this context, this study examines the strengths, weaknesses, and levels of engagement among organizations involved in biodiversity policy advocacy in Tanzania to identify areas for more effective future support and partnerships. The study employed 30 key informant interviews and three focus group discussions with stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation. Findings show that ten organizations have a defined policy advocacy agenda. Key strengths include strong advocacy capacity demonstrated by organizations such as Tanzania Forest Conservation Group, Tanzania Natural Resource Forum, the national network of community forest groups, and Marine Conservation and Development Initiative, which have successfully influenced policy and legal reforms. Additional strengths include strong national and international networks, credibility with government authorities and partners, effective use of media, and the ability to communicate policy recommendations to decision-makers. However, common weaknesses include limited funding for policy advocacy activities and a shortage of skilled policy advocates. Engagement in monitoring, evaluation, learning, and financial sustainability planning remains limited. Nonetheless, engagement in financial planning and sustainability remains weak, highlighting a key area for future capacity building and partnership strengthening. In conclusion, Tanzanian biodiversity advocacy organizations show strong policy influence but require greater financial and technical support to maximize their impact.
The objective of this study was to contribute to the valorization of B. aegyptiaca and local technologies. Local uses were studied in northern Cameroon (Adamawa, North and Far North). A questionnaire was administered in nine locations, three per region. The results showed that the largest number were found along the Far North stretch: Mayo-Kani and Mayo-Danay divisions, extending to the Chadian stretch. Its presence in Adamawa is mainly reported in the locality of Mbe. The name Tanné, in Fulfulde, was the most common name in all three regions. All parts of the tree were used by locals (100% of respondents). Native uses were numerous: food, medicinal, animal feed, domestic, cosmetic, industrial and handicraft. Preparations were based on the pulp. It also appeared that B. aegyptiaca was widely used in the treatment of numerous ailments and diseases. The kernel of B. aegyptiaca had technological potential. Kernel oil was seen to be primarily produced upon demand. A traditional oil extraction process has been described for the first time in Cameroon, to the best of our knowledge. The marketing of B. aegyptiaca fruits and their derivatives was socio-economically important for the population in général, and for women in particular. A detailed traditional oil extraction technique in Cameroon has been described for the first time. This survey provided information on B. aegyptiaca in Cameroon in terms of opportunities, raw material supply and technological possibilities.
Forest plantations in Tanzania play a critical role in supporting sustainable wood supply hence reducing pressure on natural forests. However, expansion of forest plantations in the coastal lowland areas remains constrained by the limited availability of appropriate tree species that combine varieties of traits such as acceptable wood quality, stem form, and resistance to biotic stresses in order to cope with the challenging site conditions. This study evaluated wood basic density (WBD), stem quality, and disease resistance of eight-year-old Corymbia and Eucalyptus pure species/provenances grown at North Ruvu Forest Plantation, Kibaha District, Tanzania. The trials were established using a randomized complete block design (RCBD), with five replications for Corymbia and six for Eucalyptus. WBD was determined from increment core samples, while stem quality and disease resistance were assessed in the field using standardized visual scoring systems. The results (presented as mean ± standard error (SE)) shows that (Corymbia species/provenances differed significantly in WBD, ranging from 385 ± 18 kg m-3 (C. henryi, CSIRO) to 475 ± 27 kg m-3 (C. citriodora, TTSA). In contrast, Eucalyptus species showed lower and more uniform WBD values (mean = 394 ± 0.9 kg m-3), with no significant differences detected among entries. C. variegata (CSIRO) and C. citriodora (TTSA) showed the highest stem quality, with 100% and 92% high-quality stems, respectively. Disease resistance was strongest in C. citriodora (TTSA and ZFC) and E. camaldulensis (TTSA), where no visible disease symptoms were observed. Overall performance ranking identified C. citriodora (TTSA), C. variegata (CSIRO), and E. camaldulensis (TTSA) as the most promising species/provenances for coastal lowland conditions. These findings demonstrate the strong potential of selected Corymbia species as viable alternatives or complements to Eucalyptus in Tanzanian plantation forestry and provide empirical guidance for site–species matching and diversification strategies in similar environments.
Endoparasites are a major threat to poultry health and productivity globally and in Tanzania including Zanzibar. A research gap exists on comparative analyses of distinct endoparasite profiles across the local and exotic chicken types. The main objective of this study was to conduct a comparative analysis of endoparasites in broiler, layer, and local chickens at Darajani chicken slaughter market in Zanzibar. The specific objectives were to assess the prevalence, intensity, and types of endoparasites in slaughtered chickens, assess species diversity and, explore links between chicken types and management practices, and provide baseline data to support targeted parasite control strategies for better poultry health, productivity, and food security in Zanzibar. Methods: The cross-sectional study involved a total of ninety fecal samples (using Cochran sample size formula) that were collected and analyzed using flotation and sedimentation methods. Sampling was conducted once a week for one month. Results: Out of ninety fecal samples, the flotation method identified 65 (72.2%) as negative, with Eimeria spp. being the most common parasite identified (12.2%). The sedimentation method proved to be a more efficient diagnostic tool with sensitivity of 83.3% compared to 43.3% for flotation method. Sedimentation method also detected a wider range of parasites. The most prevalent parasite detected by sedimentation was Ascaridia spp (17.8%). A statistical analysis confirmed that while the two methods are related (p-value <0.05), they provide distinct and complementary information. Also, the study revealed a high endoparasite prevalence, with 54 out of 90 fecal samples (60%) testing positive. The study also found significant differences in infection rates among the three types of chickens (p<0.05). Local chickens had the highest prevalence (24.4%), while layers had the lowest (12.2%). This highlights the vulnerability of local chickens, due to their free-range management system, and underscores the protective benefits of the more controlled environment used for layers. Conclusion and recommendation: The study concluded that local chickens were vulnerable because their free-range system exposes them to parasites in contaminated environments. Sedimentation method proved to be a superior diagnostic tool with higher sensitivity than flotation method and detected a wider range of parasites. It is recommended for public health officials in Zanzibar to create a targeted parasite control program to improve both animal health and food safety.
The objective of this study is to enhance the understanding of the diversity and structure of fishery resources. To achieve this, we conducted beach seine catches in two seasons from 2020 to 2022 at six sites within the Gandoule Marine Protected Area. All individuals captured were identified and counted, and their weight and size were measured. In total, 58 species from 46 genera and 31 families were recorded. Diversity, weight, and growth parameters of fishery resources showed variation across time and locations. Species richness and abundance varied significantly (p<0.05) between sites. Baradia (13.33±6.02) had significantly higher richness than Pass Fambine (5.66±4.27). The highest abundances were at Donakal (136.67±148.73), with the lowest at Pass Diamniadio (24.67±13.61). Over the study period, average richness declined from 10.83±6.63 to 7.33±2.87 species, and abundance decreased from 82.58±72.98 to 23.67±12.52 individuals from 2020 to 2022. There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in overall diversity among sites and years. Analysis of structural characteristics revealed significant spatio-temporal variation in biomass (P<0.05). Donakal (20.14±6.43kg) showed higher biomass than Pass Fambine (5.11±1.55kg). Biomass declined from 11.81±11.54kg in 2020 to 3.97±2.36kg in 2022, while the proportion of small fish rose from 69.47% to 72.73%. Fish length decreased significantly (p<0.05) over the study period, from 257.12±40.69cm to 157.48±16.71cm. Despite some contradictory data on the proportion of small fish (which rose then fell), the trends indicate a decline in fishery resources in the Saloum Delta, attributed to overexploitation, habitat degradation, and climate change.
This study investigates the predation dynamics of the African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) within the Mbam et Djerem National Park, Cameroon, focusing on the interplay between predation pressures and climatic influences. The African buffalo, a keystone species in the park's ecosystem, faces various predators, including lions, crocodiles, and hyenas, who’s hunting patterns may be influenced by climatic factors such as temperature, rainfall, and seasonal changes. Utilizing a combination of field observations, and climatic data analysis, this research aims to elucidate the relationships between buffalo population dynamics, predation rates, and environmental variables. Preliminary findings suggest that periods of extreme weather events significantly affect predator behavior and buffalo vulnerability, potentially leading to shifts in population stability. Understanding these interactions is crucial for effective wildlife management and conservation strategies in the face of climate change. Buffalo populations, together with their predators were monitored and observed from 8:00 am - 5:00 pm for four days each week. Additionally, data was collected on rainfall, sunshine, temperature and humidity simultaneously. The predation of African buffalo showed a significant association on habitat r = 0.303 P<0.05, water sources r = 0.405 P = 0.019, climatic conditions X2 = 11.827 df=6 P<0.05, humidity X2 = 4.813 df=4 P<0.05, and human encroachment X2 = 11.741 df=4 P=0.019 respectively. More so, habitat has shown a significance on food resources X2 = 2.972 df=2 P<0.05 and environmental temperature rating r=0.571 P=0.001 respectively. There was a significant association between atmospheric temperature rating and buffalo food X2 = 14.707 df=4 P=0.005. A significant correlation was equally recorded between humidity rating and predatory habitat r=0.211 P<0.05. Results indicated that climatic variations significantly affect prey availability and predator behavior, leading to fluctuating predators pressure on buffalo populations. Increased rainfall correlates with higher grass biomass, enhancing buffalo habitat quality but also attracting predators. This research highlights the complex interplay between climatic factors and predator-prey dynamics, providing insights for conservation strategies aimed at maintaining the ecological balance within the park. This study contributes to the broader discourse on ecosystem resilience and the impacts of environmental variability on wildlife interactions in African savannas.
Forests are central to rural incomes, energy security, water regulation, and climate goals. Yet the promise of carbon finance remains uneven due to contested land and resource rights, weak community participation, inconsistent monitoring and reporting, market volatility, and opaque benefit-sharing that can erode local trust. To determine how carbon markets can be integrated with rural livelihoods, a rapid evidence synthesis of Kenyan national laws, policies, and program documents was combined with structured case studies of representative forest and rangeland carbon projects. Data were analyzed thematically across five domains: governance and authorizations, measurement/reporting, benefit-sharing, livelihood co-investment, and risk management to identify enabling conditions and failure points. The results show that Kenya’s evolving framework now clarifies roles for authorizing projects, establishes national tracking systems, and requires community benefit-sharing through locally negotiated agreements. Projects demonstrate the capacity to generate verified emission reductions and fund local priorities (e.g., water, education, health, and micro-enterprise). However, results also reveal persistent risks: unclear tenure and inadequate free, prior and informed consent (FPIC); gaps in transparent revenue reporting; variable monitoring quality; and exposure to price and demand swings. Kenya has assembled the core policy and institutional scaffolding to link carbon markets with rural prosperity. Realizing this potential depends on centering community rights, credible monitoring, and transparent, rules-based sharing of benefits. It is recommended that (1) fully operationalizing national carbon registries and clear authorization procedures; (2) standardizing Community Development Agreements (CDA) with public reporting of revenues and disbursements; (3) aligning project monitoring with national forest and restoration systems; (4) ring-fencing carbon revenues for local enterprises—beekeeping, nurseries, efficient cooking, sustainable wood products, and eco-tourism with gender and youth quotas; (5) requiring independent audits and accessible grievance redress mechanisms; and (6) benchmarking projects against internationally recognized integrity standards to stabilize demand and pricing.
A study conducted in the Mayo-Lemié region of southwestern Chad aimed to determine the physicochemical characteristics and suitability of a soil for maize cultivation. A soil profile was established and described in the field, and soil samples were then collected from the different horizons. These samples were oven-dried for two weeks, crushed, labeled, and sent to the laboratory for routine analysis. The results of the analyses showed that all the samples analyzed ranged from slightly acidic to acidic with pH between 5.1 and 6.5; similarly, all exchangeable cations were poorly represented. The sum of exchangeable cation decreases with depth, as do the values of other nutrients. The results of the laboratory analyses were compared white the climatic data of the study area for evaluation according to the FAO. The climate assessment shows that the climate is very suitable for maize cultivation with an adjusted climate index of 88.03. It also appears from this study that the land unit concerned is marginally suitable for maize production with a parametric value of 31.82. The sandy texture remains the main limitation. To improve the situation, crop rotation is necessary, stubble should be returned to the fields after harvest, and mineral and organic fertilizers should be applied to improve the physical and chemical characteristics of the soil in order to increase yields.
Background: Fish are a vital source of high-energy nutrition, especially for economically disadvantaged populations. Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella), prized for their quality meat, are widely consumed worldwide including in Pakistan. However, environmental ammonia pollution from aquaculture poses significant risks to their health, impacting physiological functions, growth, and survival. Understanding ammonia toxicity is crucial for sustainable aquaculture and environmental protection. Objectives: This research aimed to investigate the toxicity of ammonium hydroxide on the growth, hematological parameters, and histopathological changes in gills of grass carp. Methods: Grass carp were exposed to various concentrations of ammonium hydroxide (0, 1, 1.5, and 2 mg/L) for a duration of 14 days in glass aquaria. Growth performance, hematological parameters (including Hb, RBC, MCHC, WBC, MCV, MCH, and cholesterol levels), and serological parameters (such as bilirubin, creatinine, uric acid, SGPT, and alkaline phosphate) were assessed. Histopathological analysis of the gills was conducted to observe any abnormalities. Results: The results revealed that increased concentrations of ammonium hydroxide led to retarded growth in grass carp, with the lowest growth rate observed in the experimental group exposed to 2 mg/L of ammonium hydroxide and the highest growth rate in the control group (0 mg/L). Hematological parameters indicated a significant decrease in Hb, RBC, MCHC, and WBC counts with increasing levels of ammonium hydroxide, while MCV, MCH, and cholesterol levels increased. Serological parameters showed elevated levels of bilirubin, creatinine, uric acid, SGPT (ALT), and alkaline phosphate with increasing ammonium hydroxide concentrations. Histopathological analysis of the gills revealed significant effects, including chloride cell hyperplasia, sideway swimming, hyperemia, epithelial lifting, curling of secondary lamellae, lamellar fusion, and shortening of secondary lamellae.
For centuries, human communities have relied on natural resources to satisfy their various needs (food, health, housing, etc.). Among these resources, Terminalia superba, a wood of high technological quality, is highly sought-after, which has led to strong pressure on its natural populations throughout its range, including Guinea. The present study assessed the factors determining the use and conservation of the species in Forest Guinea. Specifically, it aimed to i) assess the factors affecting the use values of T. superba, and ii) analyze the socio-economic factors controlling the conservation of Terminalia superba by rural communities. Data were collected on a random sample of 354 people in three prefectures (Lola, Macenta and N'Zérékoré) of Guinée Forestière. The relative frequency of users of the species (all forms of use combined) was calculated, and through a generalized linear model based on the Poisson distribution, the relationship between use values and respondents' socio-economic factors was analyzed. Logistic regression in a step-by-step selection approach was used to identify the factors controlling the retention of Terminalia superba plants in the fields. The relative frequency of use of Terminalia superba was 99.15%. The average number of uses reported per respondent was 1.92, with a coefficient of variation of 49.72%. Of all the factors involved, only gender had a significant effect on the number of uses reported, with men reporting more uses (mean = 1.97 and CV = 48.72%) than women (mean = 1.06 and CV = 22.91%). The final logistic regression model identified variables such as prefecture of residence, time spent in the village over 20 years, monthly income, main source of income, age category, marital status and level of education as factors controlling the retention of Terminalia superba plants by respondents in their fields. This study demonstrates the importance of the species and identifies the socio-economic factors of interest to be considered in programs for its valorization and conservation.
Summary: Potato cultivation is a crucial area in crop production, especially in the Southern Steppe of Ukraine, where agroecological conditions require effective plant protection strategies. Yield is influenced by numerous factors, one of which is infestation by phytonematodes. This is particularly relevant under irrigated farming conditions, which promote the development of harmful nematode species. The article presents the results of testing a nematicidal preparation based on the predatory fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora against a complex of potato nematodes under model vegetative experiment conditions. This approach makes it possible to evaluate the potential efficacy of the product before large-scale field application. A reduction was observed in the total number of phytophagous nematodes (Paratylenchus nanus, Pratylenchus pratensis), mycetophagous nematodes (Aphelenchoides asterocaudatus, A. limberi, Aphelenchus avenae), and saprophagous nematodes (Aporcelaimellus obtusicaudatus, Chiloplacus symmetricus, Eucephalobus oxiuroides, Panagrolaimus rigidus), as well as in the invasion intensity of dominant endophytic species. Double treatment (tuber soaking and vegetative spraying) resulted in the complete absence of Pratylenchus pratensis in tubers. The preparation did not significantly affect tuber yield structure, although a trend toward increased tuber weight was noted compared to the infected control. These findings are promising for the development of biological nematicidal control methods. The article presents the results of examining a nematicidal preparation based on the predatory fungus Arthrobotrys oligospora against a complex of potato nematodes under vegetation experiment conditions. The preparation reduced the overall nematode population and partially limited the activity of dominant endophytic species Pratylenchus pratensis and Paratylenchus nanus.
Vicia sativa L. (common vetch) is an annual legume species of high ecological importance which is characterized by high nutritive value and has ability to adapt to various edaphic-climatic conditions. The study was conducted to evaluate the performance of Vetch genotypes across various locations of Guji high land areas. Twelve genotypes of common vetch including standard check using randomized complete block designs (RCBD) with three replications were used. A 3x2 plot size were used in 2021-2022 cropping season across three locations (Anno, Sorra and Songo). The genotypes revealed highly significant (P < 0.05) difference for all parameters except non-significant (P > 0.05) for leaf to steam ratio. The highest and lowest dry mater yield recorded were 6.83 t/ha from standard check Gabisa and 3.99 t/ha from G-5207 respectively. There was no yield advantage obtained from the tested genotypes tested across all environments. Genotypes and genotypes environmental biplot analysis explained that Gabisa variety used as standard check was the most high-yielding and stable. Therefore, Gabisa variety was selected until another variety was released for the study area.
Lake Sélingué is one of the main fish production areas in Mali. The fish are concentrated at the Carrière landing stage, in the Prefecture of, before being transported to urban centers. The purpose of this contribution is to establish the list of fresh fish landed at this landing stage, coming from the waters of Lake Sélingué. The study was spread over a period of 10 months with one outing per month. Landed fish were identified on site and then counted by species to determine specific diversity, frequency and groups based on occurrence. The results showed the presence of 56 species of fish distributed in 17 families and 35 genera. The Mormyridae family with 10 species is the best represented in the landing stage, followed by the Alestidae, Cichlidae, Cyprinidae and Mochokidae with 6 species each. Eight (8) species represented 71.92% of the catches, the most frequent of which were Chrysichthys auratus, Sarotherodon galilaeus and Coptodon zillii. Mochokus niloticus and Marcusenius cyprinoïdes are added to the list of fish recorded in the area of Lake Sélingué. The fish consisted of 50% constant species, 17.86% incidental species and 32.14% accidental species. The specific diversity index is 4.19 with a maximum diversity of 5.80. Given the great diversity of species, the Carrière landing stage could serve as a reference site for research and conservation of ichthyological diversity.
Boswellia papyrifera “(Del.) Hochst” is an important multipurpose tree in the Savanna zone of Sudan. The tree produces frankincense which is considered as an important commodity in many African countries. There is lack of information about frankincense production, processing and marketing in Sudan. Therefore, this study aims to provide information about production, tapping, collection and processing and to disseminate this information to the producers, stakeholders such as companies, forest administrations and producers’ association. The methodology includes critical review to current literature on frankincense production and export from Sudan. Key informant interview with FNC staff and analyses of production data in the study area. The results showed that the average frankincense yield in the study area ranged between 1.7 to 2.6kg/tree. The average producer production is ranged between 60-85 quintal/ year. The analysis of the production data for the period 2017 to 2025 showed that the highest frankincense production (432.85 tonne/year) was recorded for Rashad locality followed by (343.32 tonne/year) for Talodi locality, while the lowest frankincense production of (12.3 tonne/year and 13.48 tonne/year) was recorded for Dalanj and Abu Gebiha localities, respectively. The frankincense price in the study area is started from 2700 US$ in the beginning of the season to 4450 US$/ tonne by the end of the season. For the value chain about eight actors in frankincense production were identified and their role in production, marketing and export was examined. Those actors include government bodies (Forest National Corporation (FNC), State Ministry of Finance, State Ministry of Agriculture, Zekat, Taxation office, and locality), local leader (Ommads and Sheikhs), Producers, village trader, traders in domestic markets, trader in urban markets and exporters. The study showed that the net revenue at village level is about 230000 SDG/quintal about 92 USD$, the revenue from domestic market is about 16 USD$/quintal, while the revenue from the auction market is about 116 USD$/quintal. The main production constrains in the study area include excessive tapping, lack of fund for tapping and collection, low frankincense price, expansion of cultivation, war, illicit cutting and animal grazing. The study concluded that frankincense production from Boswellia is profitable for all actors in the frankincense value chain. The study recommended providing financial support to frankincense producers during tapping and collection and offering credit facilities to local community to get production permit, reduction of taxes and fees. More research is need in production, marketing and supply chain of frankincense in Sudan as general and in South Kordofan in particular.
Adaptive mechanisms of communities to cope with climate changes was studied in Zallingei, Central Darfur State. Samples of population in three selected areas (Teraj, Orukom and Abatta) were estimated according to villages family size. The study utilized primary data (questionnaire, field visits, open key informants discussion). SPSS was used for categorical analysis and multivariate correlation was carried out using R software. Chi- square was used for the correlations among natural resources and community perceptions. The results showed that respondents’ perception (pastoralists and agropastoralists) of climate change impacts were conceived by most (77%) of the respondents for the last 40 years as increase in temperature and fluctuation in rainfall. Media was shown to be the source of information for 66%. For the historical situation of rangeland, most (69.3%) rated as dense, while some (24.3%) as medium. For the current changes were related to climate variability as confirmed by 73% but 40% related changes to degradation, whereas 16% related it to land degradation. The majority (85%) believed that palatable species had disappeared. Correlation analysis between the main sources of grazing and disappearance of pasture plants was significantly (P ≤ 0.001). Availability of the pasture was not enough as expressed by most (88.3%) of the respondents. Impacts on animal production were related mostly to rainfall (92%) and temperature (60%), wind seemed to have no effect. Incidents of fire were highly (66%) recognized. Various mechanisms were adopted by pastoralists to adapt to climate variability. Migration to neighboring countries in search of pasture and forage (53%). 82.3% used trees as animal feed, 52% would sell their animals or change herd structure and composition (32%). Income generating activities was presented in charcoal making (42%), trading (31%), and as labor in cities (10%). Some of the herders would convert to agriculture activities (11%) or mining (3%), others who converted to agricultural activities included free lancers (26%), gold miners (4%) and animal breeders (2%). Women participation in dairy processing as income generating activities was cited by many participants (69%). It could be concluded that adaptive strategies adopted by farmers might not be enough to best cope with climate variability, some recommendations are provided to improve rangeland condition and animal performance.
Yams (Dioscorea spp.) are monocotyledonous plant that belongs to the family Dioscoreaceae, originated from Southeast Asia. In this study, five popular Yam varieties namely Kwasi, Yangbede, Shakata, Army and Pamio were evaluated for their reactions to Plant Parasitic Nematodes (PPNs) infestation in two locations Kwali and Kuje of FCT, Nigeria where yam is cultivated. Percentage frequency of PPNs, Mean population densities of PPNs and Occurrence of yam varieties were analyzed using Analysis of Variance where means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test at 5% level of probability. The percentage frequency Pratylenchus spp of Kwasi yam variety at Kwali was 51.3% higher than at Kuje 47.5%. Three nematodes; Pratylenchus spp, Meloidogyne spp, and Scutellonema spp were isolated from rhizosphere soils across the locations. Pratylenchus spp mean population was 121.08% and 97.24% higher than Meloidogyne spp was 113.01% and 91.23% and Scutellonema spp was 82.21% & 36.13% at Kwali respectively. However, the mean population at Kuje shows that Pratylenchus spp has 77.08% which is higher than, Scutellonema spp and Meloidogyne spp (28.23% and 23.37%) Similarly, 77.08% and 55.11% of Pamio yam variety were found more than Army at Kwali and Kuje respectively. This research has highlighted the presence of Shakata, Yangbede, Kwasi, Army and Pamio and yangbede yam varieties infestation of PPNs in all locations. Thus, there is a need to factor in nematode suppressive strategies into the cultural practices utilized in the entire yam producing endemic area if optimum yield is to be realized.
Butterflies are widely recognized as biological indicators of habitat quality due to sensitivity to environmental changes and habitat disturbances. This study aimed to assess butterflies’ species diversity in Magombera Nature Forest Reserve (MNFR), Tanzania as indication of forest recovery from the previous disturbances. Specifically, the study aimed to assess i) current status of butterfly species richness and diversity in MNFR, and (ii) butterfly species abundance, dominance and distribution in MNFR. Data collected through line transects using sweep nets and visual observations across the forest area of 2,623 ha. Species richness computed as a total number of species in a given area, species diversity computed using Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index (H') and abundance computed as a total count of all individuals. The results indicated that a total of 155 butterfly species belonging to six families and 64 genera recorded in MNFR. Closed forest had high species richness (105) and diversity values (H' = 4.06) and Grassland has least species (46) and diversity values (H' = 3.27). Variation in vegetation composition in MNFR influence higher butterfly species richness, diversity and abundance in closed forest and open woodland than in grassland and riparian vegetation indicating the improvement of forest recovery from prior disturbances after being upgraded to nature reserve in 2018. Therefore, intensive management approaches that currently implemented by the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) at MNFR should be maintained to overcome other ecological changes. This will assure proper ecological flow within the forest and between Udzungwa Mountain National Park and Selous Game Reserve.
The study assessed the factors influencing the adoption of micro-scale irrigation systems among tea farmers in Burere Sub-County, Buhweju District. It was guided by three objectives which were to; analyze the factors affecting the adoption of micro-scale irrigation programs among tea farmers, establish the effect of micro-scale irrigation programs on tea production among farmers and establish strategies for increasing the adoption of micro-scale irrigation systems to improve tea production and farmer livelihoods. The study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design and primary data was collected from 300 respondents. The researcher used questionnaire and focus group discussion guide to collect primary data. The data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0. The study concludes that multiple interlinked strategies significantly influence the adoption of micro-scale irrigation systems among tea farmers. Access to extension services, financial support, and training programs were the most influential strategies to adoption. The study recommends that; there is a need to deploy more extension workers and ensure frequent farmer contact to improve awareness and skills, there is a need to partner with microfinance institutions to provide low-interest loans for irrigation equipment, implement public-private partnerships to lower costs through subsidies or bulk purchases, invest in community dams, tanks, or boreholes near tea-growing zones and support the formation and training of farmer cooperatives/farmer groups to promote peer-based irrigation adoption.
