Master Dissertations

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A queuing system model in the outpatient department of jinja regional referral hospital, Uganda
(The University of Dodoma, 2023) Kisakye, A.
This study investigated a queuing system model in the outpatient department of Jinja Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda. Primary data was obtained from JRRH for a period of one week. Observation method was used to record patient arrival times, service start times and service end times. The aim of the study was to identify a suitable distribution for arrival and service time of patients at the hospital, to identify the suitable distribution for waiting time of patients at the hospital and to compare the performance of a queueing model for arrival and service time of patients at the hospital with other existing models. The study findings showed that the Weibull and Gen. Extreme Value distribution acted as good fit for patient arrival and service time based on the AIC and BIC values. Also the findings based on waiting time showed that the Weibull distribution acted as a good fit for patient waiting time at the hospital according to the AIC and BIC values. The findings about the model showed that the G/G/3 model was the best as evidenced by the few expected number of patients in the queue which was 1 and 1, expected number of patients in the system which was 2 and 1, expected waiting time of patients in the queue 0.07minutes and 0.027 minutes and the expected waiting time of patients in the system which was 0.09 minutes and 0.005 minutes at both the registration counter and doctor’s rooms respectively. Therefore, Jinja Regional Referral Hospital might become a role model for other healthcare facilities by putting the recommendations into practice and looking into new research areas. This would improve the patient experience and the way healthcare is delivered there.
Abundance and distribution of fiddler crabs of genus Uca along the environmental gradient at Pangani estuary
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) Hassan, Hassan Hamad
Abundance and distribution of Fiddler crabs of genus Uca, were examined along the environmental gradient at Pangani estuary. Physio chemical parameters, abundance and distribution of Uca crabs were measured and observed respectively. Data were collected during a low spring tide through field observation and comparisons, were made along estuary river mouth (close to the sea), intermediate (at the middle between the sea and river) and upstream (close to the river). The results of physio chemical parameters showed that the organic matter and pH increased from the river mouth toward the upstream (p = 0.001, p = 0.0001 respectively) while salinity decreased from the river mouth toward the upstream (p = 0.0001), temperature did not show clear trend along the zonation with the lowest value at the intermediate and highest between two extremes (river mouth and the upstream). A total of 435 Uca crabs were counted and observed, out of which 91 (20.9‰) were from river mouth, 130 (29.8‰) at the intermediate and 214 (49.19‰) from the upstream. The results revealed that, the Uca crab abundance increased from river mouth towards the upstream as an organic matter and pH, however the intermediate site was the most diverse (H’= 1.76). Furthermore, results have shown that, there was unequal distributions of the species in the area, with only two species (U. vocans and U. lactea annulipes) were found on river mouth, four species in the intermediate site (U. tetragonon, U. urvillei, U. lactea annulipes and U. chlorophthalmus) and three species in the upstream (U. inversa, U. lactea annulipes and U. chlorophthalmus). In addition, the analyses showed that organic matter was the most important physio chemical parameter governing the abundance and distribution of Uca crabs (R² = 0.9211). These data suggest that there was a clear relationship in Uca crab abundance and distribution with the availability of organic matter, temperature, pH and salinity contents.
Adaptation strategies to climate change amongst smallholder farmers: a case of humid area of Ngara district Tanzania
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) Mrianga, Joseph John
This work is about the Adaptation Strategies to Climate change Amongst the Smallholder Farmers in of Humid Area of Ngara District. The area was selected due to the fact that it is among the most affected areas by the impact of climate change in Tanzania. A sample size of 106 respondents was employed in this study. The primary data were collected through interviews with key informants, questionnaires and field observation. Secondary data were collected through documentary review. The qualitative data were computed to produce frequencies, multiple responses and cross tabulations. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis. In this study, the theories pertaining to adaptation theory was established to familiarize the reader on the paradigms, frameworks and approaches in the field of climate change. The study found that there were changes in rainfall and temperature patterns which affected the livelihood of smallholder farmers through increase of pest and crop diseases, rainfall variations, increase of wind, increase of drought, and increase of flood and increase of soil infertility. The local farmers had applied measures such as mixed cropping, crops timing calendar, cultivation along the wetlands, planting of resistant crops to drought and use of local manure and mulching. The study found some of the strengths of adaptations in the application such as soil conservation, food security and diseases control. Also, the study found the weakness such as inadequate capital and low education level. The study recommends that smallholder farmers depart from relying on rain-fed agriculture instead of irrigated agriculture. This can be achieved through government support by the construction of infrastructure which can crucial for climate change adaptation.
Amendment of soil water retention and nutrients holding capacity by using sugar cane bagasse in Dodoma municipal
(The University of Dodoma, 2018) Chacha, Mwita S.
Sugarcane bagasse which is waste byproduct of sugarcane industry can be used as soil amendments to improve crop yield, soil hydro physical-chemical characteristics and provide reasonable economic means to recycle these wastes in an environmentally friendly manner. Application of sugarcane bagasse to the soil of Dodoma located in central Tanzania used to grow Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa pekinensis) improve this crop productivity of an average number leaves to 6,7.8 and 8.7 when in pots having 3.5 kilograms soil at 2 %, 5 %, and 10 %, respectively, compared to 3.6 of the control (0 %). The soil of Dodoma under the investigation have low organic matter (438.6 - 1126.6 mg/kg), and deficient in K (0.5 cmol/kg), Ca (2.8 cmol/kg), Mg (1.3 mg /kg), Na (1.03 cmol/kg) and CEC (5 cmol/kg). Consequently, water holding capacity of soil, available K, Ca and Mg content in soil, increased 13.87, 22.79, 33.13% and 43.61% with the levels of 2, 5, 10 and 20 % application of SCB respectively. On the other hand, humic acid of extracted from studied soil was very low (0.0053 g/kg) but minutely increased to 0.2779 g/kg with the level of oxidation of SCB. The growth components of Chines cabbage crop in pots, also increased due to level of SBC application. It is recommended that application of SCB 10 % will result in enhanced yield of Chines cabbage. Keywords: sugarcane bagasse, soil water holding capacity, soil nutrients, humic acid Chines cabbage (Brassica rapa pekinensis)
Analysis of mosquito bites of certain dangerous species of mosquitoes based on geographic factors of lupiro village in Morogoro, Tanzania
(The University of Dodoma, 2023) Komba E. B.
This study aimed at analysing the bites of certain dangerous species of mosquitoes based on geographic conditions, time, temperature and humidity of Lupiro village in Morogoro, Tanzania. Secondary data were obtained from Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) for 16 nights of 4 working days per week. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) was used for identification and amplification of species of Mosquitoes. The aim of the study was to identify frequency and probability distributions of different species of mosquitoes, to develop 3D nomogram contour of various dangerous mosquito species’ bites based on geographic conditions and establishing a regression model on mosquito bites with respect to time, temperature and humidity. The study findings in frequency distribution shows that various species of mosquito bites were high at night time from 06 pm to 10 pm and moderate bites were realised from 10pm to 2am. Also, mosquito bites increased from 02 am to 06 am. The findings obtained with respect to temperature indicated that the increase of mosquito bites is associated with the increase of temperature. The findings basing on humidity showed that high humidity increases the breeding conditions of mosquito and consequently the bites also increase. Based on the 3D nomogram contour it was found that where the contour is very close to each other the mosquito bites increases while where the contours are far apart then mosquito bites become low. The Generalized models with family Gaussian with link identity were used and the interpretation was based on p-values of each species of mosquito based on time of bite, temperature and humidity which was statistically significant.
Antenatal care utilisation and associated factors among women of reproductive age in Tanzania
(The University of Dodoma, 2023) Mrema, M.
Antenatal care (ANC) services for pregnant women are an essential service for identification and prevention of possible maternal health risks so as to ensure better birth outcomes. This study was conducted to examine ANC utilisation and associated factors among reproductive age women in Tanzania with consideration of multiple ANC service utilisation. This study used quantitative approach using secondary data from Demographic Health Survey (DHS) database for years 2015/2016. Data analysis was done by descriptive statistics, Chi-square and log-binomial model. The results indicated an ANC prevalence of 87.7% with high government hospital(s) accessibility in which nurses were the main ANC attendants. Interestingly, in each of ANC services recommended by World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 50% women confirmed to receive each service (except family planning education/method). Likewise, the Chi-square test indicated a significant association between ANC visitation and ANC service utilisation (p<0.05). Model results show that, age group of 45-49 (aPR=0.95, 95% CI 0.88-1.09, p=0.048) is likely to significantly decrease ANC utilisation while primary level of education (aPR=1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.18, p=0.008), secondary level of education (aPR=1.14, 95% CI 1.05-1.23, p=0.001), rich category of wealth index (aPR=1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.15, p=0.003), urban residential place (aPR=1.09, 95% CI 1.04-1.14, p=0.001) are significantly increase ANC utilisation. On the other hand, secondary level of education (aPR=1.15, 95% CI 1.05-1.26, p=0.002), higher level of education (aPR=1.51, 95% CI 1.32-1.71, p=0.001), rich category of wealth index (aPR=1.17, 95% CI 1.09-1.24, p=0.001), private ANC centre (aPR=1.28, 95% CI 1.06-1.54, p=0.009) and religious ANC centre (aPR=1.21, 95% CI 1.04-1.40, p=0.015) were positive and significantly associated with ANC visitation. It can be argued that, education level and income status of a woman play a significant influence on both ANC service utilisation and health centre visitation. Health stakeholders in Tanzania should focus on community sensitization and economic empowerment of women so as they can access quality ANC services. The target should be to not only to make women knowledgeable on maternal health issues but also financially able to pay for ANC services as they make visitation at ANC centre(s).
Assessment of anthropogenic activities and their potential impacts on flora and fauna in Bahi wetlands, Dodoma
(The University of Dodoma, 2017) Philemon, Wodrick
A study was carried out in Bahi wetlands covering Bahi and part of Manyoni Districts to assess the anthropogenic activities that have potential impacts on flora and fauna. The study was carried out in selected four villages of Bahi District, namely, (1) Nagulo Bahi, (2) Bahi sokoni, (3) Uhelela, and (4) Mkakatika, and Igose for Manyoni District. The study was carried out based on the specific objectives: (1) to identify anthropogenic activities and their potential impacts on flora and fauna in Bahi wetlands, (2) to assess the ecosystem goods and services of Bahi wetlands, and (3) to identify and analyze institutional framework governing the management of Bahi wetlands. Data were analyzed for simple descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Science Studies [SPSS] version 20 and Microsoft excel 2010 software. Findings revealed that main anthropogenic activities that have impacts on biological diversity in Bahi wetlands including flora and fauna species to include improper agricultural practices (23.5%; N = 268), overgrazing (20.5%; N = 268) and overfishing (18.7%; N = 268). Other anthropogenic activities that threaten flora and fauna diversity include deforestation (12.3%: N = 268), and unsustainable charcoal production (11.2%; N = 268). Important ecosystem goods and services provided by Bahi wetlands include provisioning services (food, water, grazing pasture, fish and thatch grasses); supporting services including habitat for fauna; and regulating services such as flood control. These imply that the Bahi wetland resource has potential benefits to residents of Bahi District.
Assessment of climate change adaptation strategies for crops production in semi arid areas: case of Hombolo region
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) Charles, Amani
This study aimed at assessing Climate Change Adaptation Strategies (CCAS) in crops production in semi-arid areas. The study focused on assessing the effectiveness of climate change adaptation on maize and grapes production in Hombolo. Specifically, the study assessed how climate change variability affected crops; assessing different strategies used to address the impacts of CC on crops production and investigating challenges to implement CCAS in production of crops. Oral interviews, questionnaires and field observation were used to collect primary data from key informants and farmers. Secondary data were collected through documentary review. SPSS version 16.0 and Microsoft Excel was used to encode and analyse data. The study found out that, the average maximum temperature is increasing while the annual rainfall is decreasing with time. Drying of crops particularly maize, crops to become stagnant, a decrease of maize yields, and increase of crop pests and diseases in both crops were the main CC effects to maize and grapes production. Maize was the most affected crop in the study area. In response to that, the local community had applied measures such as shifting cultivation, intercropping, application of crop pesticides, irrigation, planting drought-tolerant crops, plantation of short term grains and changing of crops (crop rotation). The government interventions in the study area included; establishment of seed development researches, construction of irrigation schemes, the introduction of short term seeds, recruitment of Agriculture Extension Officers (AEOs). The study found that there were only small achievements in adaptation and mitigation due to several challenges like; poor capital, lack of subsidised agriculture inputs as well as lack of agricultural education; and there was a poor implementation of government policies in the study area. Therefore, there is a need of providing education about CCAS, subsidising agricultural inputs, subsidizing agricultural equipment, providing soft loans and credits, providing pesticides, planting early maturity plants, planting drought-tolerant crops, improving irrigation farming, improving Farmer Field Schools, improving cooperation, employing more AEOs and applying fertilizer. Finally, the study recommends measures such as; the government to provide farmers with timely forecasting information on weather and climatic conditions, drought resistant and short duration high yielding crops. Also, the government should make easy access to farmers of scientific information about CCAS.
Assessment of community-owned water supply organizations strategy for sustainability of rural water supply in Dodoma region
(The University of Dodoma, 2016) Mwendamseke, Ephraim
This study was conducted in Dodoma region covering seven districts. The study area is among the central regions which are dry without alternative source of clean water from the surface. Rural communities in study area are less capable of achieving economies of scale to raise income needed for drilling independent boreholes. The situation creates the urgency of finding the effective management system for ensuring sustainability of rural water projects. The aim of the study was to assess rural water supply management system in Dodoma region; the main focus was to assess the efficacy of the newly promoted strategy of Community – Owned Water Supply Organizations (COWSOs). Specifically, the objectives of the study were to achieve a deep understanding about districts implementation of the strategy after being delegated authorities from the Ministry of Water, examining on how the new management system may complement with existing systems of private operators (POs) and Village water committees (VWC). The study found that the registration process of COWSOs at the districts is undesirably low. Many rural water projects were still under Village water committees by 56% and private operators (28%) while the COWSOs were managing only 15% of water projects. Many districts highlighted that the major challenge was lack of fund to support the program implementation. To improve the strategy performance is recommended that the Government should intensify the investment by disbursing enough funds and resources for the programme execution.
Assessment of diversity of parasites of common cultured finfish species milkfish (chanos chanos) along Zanzibar coasts
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) Msiu, Nadhra Said
This study assessed the diversity of parasites of milkfish Chanos chanos cultured along Zanzibar coasts. The study analyzed the prevalence, mean intensity, diversity and richness of parasites species and to relate the occurrence of this parasites in relation to physico- chemical parameters of the ponds water and feeding modes of the fish. Three different localities were selected for this investigation. A total of 110 milkfish were dissected, the body cavity of each fish removed out ventrally and each organ were cut and opened separately and kept in physiological saline, hand lenses and dissecting microscope were used for parasites examination. Out of 110 milkfish examined 59 were infected with endoparasitic worms, the overall prevalence of infection was 53.64% and mean intensity of 3.98. The study found that 33 fish were infected with nematodes Camallanus sp. with prevalence of 30%, 13 fish were infected with Capillaria sp. with prevalence of 11.82%, 23 fish were infected with cestoda Scolex pleuronectis with prevalence of 20.9% while 5 fish were infected with acanthocephalan Cavisoma magnum with prevalence 4.5%. All parasites were observed in body cavity, 92.34% of these parasites were found in intestines and 7.66% found in stomach. Results of Shannon and Wiener Index H' of diversity showed that Donge ponds had high diversity of parasite species compared to Bumbwini pond 0.89 and 0.75 respectively. While Shakani pond recorded the lowest species diversity of 0.68. Bumbwini showed high prevalence of 76.67% and parasites mean intensity of 4.96. Donge had prevalence of 66.67% and mean intensity of 3.6 while Shakani pond show the lowest prevalence of 32% and mean intensity of 3.1. Also the observation of this study revealed that parasitic infection was high with increase fish size. The incidence of parasites did not show relationship with physico - chemical parameters of the ponds water: temperature, pH, Dissolved oxygen, (DO) and salinity of the water since p value is greater than significant value, p > 0.05. However parasite communities varied with different modes of feeding between sites under study. From this finding it is recommended that farmers should be given adequate technical knowledge on suitable fish culture methods and proper husbandry in order to prevent parasitic infection and disease so as to raise healthy fish and to achieve high production of fish stock
Assessment of environmental management systems for enhanced industrial waste management in Mwanza city
(The University of Dodoma, 2012) Madoshi, Safari
The ever increasing industrial wastes in many developing countries pose threat on environmental sustainability due to the associated healthy risks. A socio-economic survey was carried out among nine wards of Nyamagana and Ilemela municipalities of Mwanza city to assess environmental management systems based on specific objectives: (1) to identify types of industrial wastes being generated in Mwanza city, (2) to evaluate current environmental management systems (EMS), and (3) to identify environmental impacts related to the generated industrial wastes. A total of 203 respondents including 115 local communities neighboring industrial areas; 20 industrial managers; 60 industrial workers; and 8 respondents from governmental and Non Governmental officials were both randomly and purposively selected for the study. Both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection, namely, interviews; both structured and non-structured questionnaires; focused group discussion (FGD) sessions; and observations were employed. Data were coded, entered and analyzed into simple descriptive statistics using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16.0. Also, tables, percent, figures and narrative notes were used to support the analysis. Results revealed that the main types of industrial wastes being generated in Mwanza city include solid wastes (48.6%) such as, fish skeleton remains, seed cakes, cereal cakes, metal remains and wood papers. About 35.8% of respondents mentioned liquid waste such as oil leakages, grease, petroleum and petroleum by-products compared to 15.6% of respondents whom mentioned smoke wastes from industries. Majority of respondents (70%) reported the general lack of proper environmental management system (EMS) as associated to the lack of clear policy of government, corporate organizations, industries, planning, monitoring, auditing and management review on waste management as an obstacle in sustainable waste management in Mwanza city. Impacts of industrial wastes reported in the study area include land pollution (20.6%), water pollution (19.5%); health impact among industrial workers, waste collectors, and local community proximal to the industrial areas. From the current study it could be concluded that, participated industries in the current study had not implemented environmental management systems (EMS) due to lack of proper waste management which result to negative impact. It is recommended that, the Government and other stakeholders such the National Environmental Management Council should insist each corporate, companies and industries in particular, to abide to environmental management system for enhanced industrial wastes management and the general wastes through improved waste collection, treatment, separation, transportation, recycling, and appropriate waste disposal so as to overcome impacts associated with improper waste management.
Assessment of flood disasters preparedness due to climate change and variability: the case of Bujonde and Kajunjumele wards in Kyela district
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) George, Lwambo
This study focused on the preparedness from flood disasters due to climate change and variability in Kyela district. Basically this study sought to; i) examine the link between climate change and variability and the occurrence of floods, ii) assess the impact of floods on socio-economic activities, iii) asses the level of preparedness in addressing flood disasters due to climate change and variability, iv) examine the challenges faced by the local community to engage in flood disaster preparedness due to climate change and variability. This study employed a cross sectional design that allowed the researcher to collect data at a single point in time. The study used a sample size of 97 respondents. Findings revealed that there is a link between climate change and variability and the occurrence of floods. Flood disasters led to the destruction of settlements, crops, roads and loss of human lives. Effective preparedness reduces flood disasters to the local community. Frequency of flood disaster and their magnitude are a biggest challenge to the local community. The findings also show that timely dissemination of climate information regarding the impending flood disaster was among the main issues in addressing flood disaster due to climate change and variability. This study recommends that decision makers should focus on flood disaster preparedness rather than reactive efforts. Local governments should set aside funds for flood disaster preparedness. Finally, government and non-governmental organizations should train government officials at different management levels and the communities on potential risks from floods and disasters but also how to prepare for them.
Assessment of floods in Mvomero district
(The University of Dodoma, 2016) Msoka, Leudega Pauli
In recent years, the flood has brought severe problems in Mvomero District. This phenomenon has led to uncertain conditions to the people‟s lives and property, as well as destructions of infrastructures. This study made an assessment of the effects of floods and flood management practices in Dakawa Ward which found in Morogoro Region. The study used household survey and interviews to collect data from 100 households and 8 key informants. Also, the study employed observation method to assess the quality of the drainage systems developed to control floods during the rain seasons. The magnitude of flood was determined by the calculation of the recurrent intervals. Flood with 1% probability have the highest water stage (7.5m), they happen once in 100 years and they are more destructive. The recurrent interval of other flood shows the frequency of H50% and H90% and water stage (6.8m and 5.0m) respectively. The study results show that the villages in Dakawa Ward are affected by floods of different frequencies. Proper information about floods is not delivered, something which leads to severe problems since the residents are not prepared to rescue their lives and property. Frequently, residents‟ houses were demolished, electrical poles fell and caused power cut and roads were over-flooded and remained impassable for a long time. Water sources, dump sites, latrines and barnyards were flooded and, thus, damaged. Further, there was an outbreak of water-borne diseases, such as Diarrhea, Typhoid and Cholera and the majority of the affected people were the children. Livestock keeping and crop production were also severely impacted; consequently, animals were injured and died.
Assessment of gender roles on land pollution in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) in Buhemba gold mine, Tanzania
(The University of Dodoma, 2020) Gabriel, Happiness Wazamwe
This study assessed the impact of gender roles on land pollution in Artisanal and Small Scale Mining at Buhemba in Butiama district, Mara region. Specifically, the study assessed the miner’s knowledge, attitude and practices on land pollution, explored gender roles basing on female and male roles in ASM. Also, the study assessed the contribution of gender roles on land pollution as a result of ASM activities in Buhemba small scale gold mine area. Different data collection methods were employed including observation, household survey, interview, focus group discussion and the review literature. Data were processed using Microsoft Excel 2013 and Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20, whereas data analysis was done using Pearson correlation, Chi-square and content analysis. At 95% CI, it was found that, there was significant ( 2 (120) = 6.678, p = 0.035) variation of knowledge towards ASM between men and women while attitude and practices (x2 (120) =1.11426, p= 0.799, 2 (120) = 0.65, p = 0.573) respectively showed no significant variation between men and women. Male were more likely to participate in digging activities compared to female (β = 2.416, SE = 1.177, df = 119, P = 0.004) while females were more likely to participate in the food vending business (β = - 3.056, SE = 0.953, df = 119, P = 0.001) compared male. It was revealed that female through food vending business (26.7%) were perceived to contribute more to land pollution compared to other female ASM activities while male through digging (16.7%) were perceived to contribute more to land pollution compared to other male ASM activities. The study is viable in addressing equity issues basing on gender in managing and conserving the land in mining areas.
Assessment of land use changes adjacent to lake Babati using GIS and remote sensing
(The University of Dodoma, 2013) Katonge, Jackson H.
The study assessed the Land use changes adjacent to Lake Babati using Geographic information system and remote sensing. Specifically, the study assessed the negative impacts associated with anthropogenic activities to the lake, land use changes adjacent to the lake between years 2000 and 2011 and examined the strengths and weaknesses of the ongoing management of the Lake. Villages studied were Babati Majengo, Singe and Bagara Ziwani. Data were collected using Geographic information system and remote sensing techniques, questionnaire survey, Key informant information and physical field visit. Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 20 was used to analyze data. Results indicate that, negative impacts to the Lake due to anthropogenic activities prevailing in the study area were mainly encroachment, over-fishing, soil erosion and siltation. Land use changes have occurred in all study villages for all zones such as cultivation, grazing and residence. On average, cultivation and residence zones increased by 3.1% and 4.9% respectively in the study area between 2000 and 2011 while grazing zone decreased by 5.3% in the study area during those years. The major strengths of lake Babati management include forest conservation along the riparian zone, law enforcement and provision of environmental education. The main weaknesses undermining the ongoing conservation strategies of lake Babati were poor community participation and lack of proper land use plan that should allocate appropriate area for each land use category. The study concludes that, the noted land use changes between 2000 and 2011are mainly due to unsustainable human practices and has induced much pressure on the lake and its resources. Therefore, appropriate measures including involvement of relevant stakeholders’ particularly local communities in lake management should betaken.
Assessment of livestock depredation by spotted Hyena (crocuta crocuta) in villages surrounding Ruaha national park
(The University of Dodoma, 2015) Kutika, Eddah Cosmas
The study to assess livestock depredation by spotted hyena was conducted in six villages surrounding Ruaha National Park which were systematically selected along the gradient of distance from the park. The closest village was Tungamalenga that is 37 km from the park while other villages were: Makifu village (39km), Mapogolo village (42km), Mahuninga village (49km), kitisi village (50km) and Idodi village 52km. Data collection involved 121 households that were selected through snowballing techniques using standardized questionnaires. Data analysis was done by using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 16 for windows. Descriptive statistics was used to calculate, percentage, means and standard error of means. Since data was not normally distributed the non parametric test, such as Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney were used to compare medians of loss of different livestock due to depredation and diseases of each selected village and among villages. Livestock depredation by spotted hyena did not correlate with distance from Ruaha National Park as spotted hyena caused livestock loss to both closest and distant villages. Disease caused higher livestock loss than depredation. Majority of the respondents had no pits for waste disposal, this might be the reason for spotted hyena to visit villages and attack livestock. Also poor night holding boma to the most visited households was another reason for livestock depredation. Most livestock attacks occurred during the rainy season and at night. In order to reduce the level of depredation farmers have to build predator proof night holding bomas using affordable materials
An assessment of municipal solid waste collection services at community level, in Mbeya city
(The University of Dodoma, 2018) Mbwilo, Emmanuel C.
This study aimed at assessing the efficiency of Municipal Solid Waste collection services (MSWCS) at community level in Mbeya City. Efficiency was specifically assessed by establishing the coverage of Municipal Solid Waste collection services, existing methods of collection and finally determine challenges associated with MSWCS. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, documentary reviews and field observations. Questionnaire survey was undertaken from 100 households in six selected wards namely Ilomba, Nzovwe, Iyela, Ilemi, Mwakibete and Luanda. All of these data were coded and analyzed through statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) as well as excel software. Findings have revealed that, MSWCS in Mbeya City is inefficient due to a number of challenges including low community environmental education and awareness, shortage of skip buckets and bays, insufficient Electrical Fiscal Devices (EFDs) for refuse collection, inadequate enforcement of laws, increasing population and socio economic activities, human and financial constraints, shortage of vehicles, and increasing waste production against collection capability. The study concludes that, despite of the highlighted challenges, still communities are in favor of the existing solid waste collection services, particularly point collection in their localities. Hence the study therefore, recommends to the Mbeya city council to enhance environmental education and awareness campaigns, provide more skip buckets, increase Electrical Fiscal Devices (EFDs) for collection of monthly refuse fees, increase bays, and undertake fair enforcement of environmental sanitation laws. Key words Municipal solid waste, efficiency, solid waste collection, services.
Assessment of natural resources conflicts in some selected villages surrounding Mikumi national park
(The University of Dodoma, 2013) Mayengo, Gabriel
This study investigated the Natural Resources conflicts in Doma, Maharaka and Mkata villages surrounding Mikumi National Park. The study assessed human-elephant, human-carnivore and farmers and livestock keeper’s conflicts. Field observation, household survey, field interviews and in-depth interviews were used to find the required information. The collected information were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Losses due to elephant consumption increased year after year in all three villages. Human-carnivore, farmers and pastoralist conflicts were serious in Mkata village only where farmers and pastoralist co-exist. Carnivores are blamed for attack, wound and kill livestock whereby, pastoralists are blamed for taking their livestock in peasants’ farms. Bottom-up approach, alternative sources of income, and discouraging nomadism were proposed as mitigation measures to reduce those conflicts. It was concluded that quantification of losses and diversification of economic activities on villages around the National Park, can be a way towards reduced Natural Resource use conflict. Studies on quantification of losses, phylogenetic study to identify the origin of conflicting carnivores, and the use of strong perfumes to prevent elephants to enter in farms can provide insight for future peaceful existence of the National Park and the surrounding communities.
Assessment of relative abundance, distribution and illegal killing of water birds in Usangu wetland
(The University of Dodoma, 2023) Chaula, A.
Wetlands hold about one-third of the world bird populations. However, they are threatened by socio-economic activities and hence potentially affecting a large assemblage of bird life. Usangu wetland, one of Tanzania's Important Bird Areas (IBAs), is experiencing an increase in farming and illegal killing of waterbirds activities. This study was conducted to determine the factors influencing relative abundance and distribution of water birds, drivers for illegal killing, and mapping the hotspots of water birds killing in Usangu Wetland. Transect sampling was used to determine abundance and distribution of water birds. Household survey, Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and key informants’ interviews were used to assess illegal killing drivers, where 12 species are illegal killed for household consumption and pest bird control. While participatory mapping was employed in mapping hotspots for illegal killing. Data on abundance and distribution were analyzed by t-test in STATA version 16 while illegal killing among species across study sites were analyzed by Kruskal walis and t-test using SPSS and R-Studio 4.0.3. Hotspots for illegal hunting were mapped using Q-GIS 3.2.14. A total of 34 waterbird species were recorded. The three most common abundant species were Gallinula angulata (47.56%), Dendrocygna bicolor (12.01%) and Plegadis falcinellus (10.15%) and the least common were Amaurornis flavirostra 0.01%, Scopus umbreta 0.01%. Water birds are most abundant and distributed in rice fields habitats compared to open grassland and maize farms especially during their reproductive stage of rice. A total of 12 bird species are illegally killed, and the most killed are: Gallinula angulata (66.1%), Gallinula chloropus (10.6%), Dendrocygna bicolor (6.8%), Aldea spp. (5%) and the Palearctic migrant Ciconia ciconia (3.8%). Most of illegal killing are conducted within rice fields. Rice fields was found to play a crucial function of habitat for diverse waterbirds, but has been a suicide bag from illegal killing as most cases are found in rice fields.
Assessment of selected water quality parameters and the levels of heavy metals in soil around the schools in central Tanzania
(The University of Dodoma, 2021) Chondo, Jonas
Fresh water is one of the most important for the survival of all living things. Geological or anthropogenic activities can influence water and soil pollution. Water quality and soil were assessed in central Tanzania, where a large population uses mainly ground water and playground soil with an unknown level of contamination. Therefore, drinking water (66 samples) and playground soil (33 samples) were collected from selected primary schools in central Tanzania. Selected physical and chemical parameters of water and heavy metals in playground soil such as turbidity, total dissolved solids, electric conductivity, pH, nitrate ion, fluoride ion, total hardness, alkalinity, and heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cu, Cr, and Ni) were assessed. A flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer was used to analyze heavy metals in water and soil. A Colorimeter and UV-VIS spectrophotometer was used to determine fluoride and nitrate in water samples, respectively. Findings were shown to show a variety of physical and chemical parameters of water and heavy metals in soil at different sampling points. In some areas, physical parameters such as turbidity (39.4%), total dissolved solids (7.5%), and electric conductivity (6%) exceed the standards required by WHO and TBS, while other areas are within safe limits. Chemical parameters such as pH, nitrate ion (69.5%), fluoride ion (21.2%), total hardness (3%), alkalinity (7.5%), in water exceed the safe limit, except heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cu, Cr, and Ni) was not detected in all water samples. Same of the parameters (EC and TDS, turbidity and fluoride, Nitrate and pH) shown a clear positive corilation in water samples. In soil samples, Ni (12.1%) and Cr (21.2%) were found in high than safe limit, while Pb, Cu, and Cd were found to be within the safe limits set by WHO and TBS. East to west route found to has higher level of Cr (25%) and Ni (18.75%) in playground soil but north to south was less, Cr (17.6%) and Ni (5.9%). All parameters shows the slightly increase from east to west but no clear variation has shown from north to south route. Overall, the results indicate a critical need for regular testing and monitoring of water and playground soil around primary schools before they are taken into use, and awareness should be created among the communities on soil and water contamination