Babati District Research Articles

Contribution of wildlife tourism in improving local communities’ livelihood in Burunge Wildlife Management Area in Tarangire Manyara Ecosystem, Tanzania

The overall objective of this study was to assess the role of wildlife tourism in improving the livelihood of communities in Burunge Wildlife Management Area (BWMA) by focusing on the economic and the socio-cultural roles. Data were obtained through household questionnaire, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews in three study villages. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26 and Microsoft Excel. The findings revealed that wildlife tourism operations in the three villages associated with BWMA have generated significant benefits. Several economic and socio-cultural livelihood indicators in the study villages were significantly impacted by wildlife tourism activities. Wildlife tourism appears to have a considerable impact on increasing household incomes, but a relatively lesser impact on reducing agricultural production, which is the economic mainstay for many households in the Babati district. In terms of socio-cultural livelihood indicator, wildlife tourism operation seem to have a significant (x2 = 191.613, df = 8, N = 117 and p < 0.0001) impact in raising the profile and fame of the villages, while having a lesser impact on the erosion of local customs and culture, as most of the villagers continue to uphold their cultural practices. These findings suggest that wildlife tourism in the WMAs can improve people's standard of living and strengthen cultural values. The study recommends full consideration of socio-economic and cultural values of the communities at individual level by the potential stakeholders including policy makers. This will enhance the achievement of sustainable conservation in WMAs and community development through wildlife tourism activities.

The Impact of Financing on Water Supply Efficiency in Tanzania: A Case of Babati District.

The Impact of Financing on Water Supply Efficiency in Tanzania: A Case of Babati District.

Quantitative risk assessment for aflatoxins in beans from northern Tanzania

Abstract The study focussed on quantitative risk assessment for population exposure to aflatoxins by consuming beans from bean farmers in three villages; Long, Sabilo and Seloto in Babati District, Northern Tanzania. Aflatoxin levels were determined in a total of 144 bean samples; a total of 38 samples were collected from harvesting beans, while 106 samples were collected from stored beans. This kind of assessment allows modelling bean consumption data (kg/kg body weight (bw)/day) using an estimated average weight of an adult of 60 kg with previously collected data for total aflatoxin (AF) contamination (μg/kg) beans samples from the 2013/14 survey. Consumption was estimated by using the minimum annual per capita consumption of beans in Tanzania of 13.02 kg (which is equivalent to 35.67 g/day) and the exposure assessment was performed with the @RISK analysis software. Results from the assessment showed exposure for lower bound (LB) having a mean value of 1.06, 0.79 and 0.95 ng/kg bw/day in Long, Sabilo and Seloto villages, respectively, while for the medium bound (MB) the mean values were 1.33, 1.07 and 1.26 ng/kg bw/day, respectively, and for the upper bound (UB) the values were 1.65, 1.38 and 1.58 ng/kg bw/day, respectively. The margins of exposure (MoE) from this study were below 10,000 for all scenarios and this is of public health concern. Even though all samples had aflatoxin contamination below the maximum tolerable limit (MTL) of 4, 10 and 20 μg/kg for aflatoxins in cereals and pulses in the EU, the East African Community (EAC) and the USA, there is still a serious long-term health implication. Meeting MTL will not by itself guarantee food safety, but using the data collected and available on various health effects from aflatoxin and other mycotoxins, it is important to incorporate them into a risk assessment and show how excessive consumption of foods meets MTLs can still carry significant public health risks.

Household Economic Losses and Community Knowledge Determine Control Strategies: A Case of Cerebral Coenurosis in Small Ruminants in Northern Tanzania

Cerebral coenurosis affects sheep and goats worldwide and has zoonotic implications. Information on the financial burden and understanding of the disease and control practices may inform control strategies. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Babati and Ngorongoro Districts, Tanzania, to determine economic losses, farmers’ knowledge, and attitudes and practices on the control of coenurosis in small ruminants. A structured questionnaire was administered to 558 households for data collection. The total annual loss was TZS 122.8 M (USD 52.9 K) for Babati and TZS 656.5 M (USD 282.9 K) for Ngorongoro District. The average annual household financial loss was TZS 356.8 K (USD 153.83) for Babati and TZS 3.1 M (USD 1.3 K) for Ngorongoro District. Almost 90% of respondents were aware of coenurosis while less than 1% of the respondents had no knowledge of it at all. The average knowledge score was 5.85 out of 16 (36.6%), which implies a low level of knowledge on coenurosis. About 94% of respondents showed a willingness to participate and pay the control costs. Given the economic loss and favorable attitudes toward control participation, delivery of an educational package on epidemiology and control of coenurosis to livestock keepers may trigger collaborative and sustainable intervention.

Willingness to Pay for Watershed Services by Downstream Water Users in Babati District, Tanzania

Payment for Ecosystem Services promotes watershed management through Payment for Watershed Services. It encourages improved land management practices in upstream areas to enhance the quantity and quality of water downstream. The Nou Forest Reserve in Babati district covers Lake Manyara's headwaters. Its rivers are the primary water source for the area's inhabitants. However, there have been reports of declining water quality and quantity, presenting an opportunity to introduce payment for watershed services for Nou Forest Reserve conservation and management. The present study was conducted to assess the level of awareness among downstream water users about the importance of watersheds in providing sustainable water supply. Using the Contingent Valuation Method, the study estimated the communities’ willingness to pay for improved watershed services, analysed factors influencing capacity to pay, and examined possible operational modes for implementing payment mechanisms. A total of 155 domestic water users and 50 non-domestic water users were interviewed. It was found that 71% of domestic water users and 82% of non-domestic water users were willing to pay for improved watershed services, with a mean willingness to pay estimated at TAS 1261 per user/year for domestic water users and TAS 112322 per user/year for non-domestic water users. Factors such as gender, occupation, education, and farm size significantly (P&lt;0.05) influenced water users' willingness to pay. Income was a significant factor in the willingness to pay for non-domestic water users, but it was not significant for domestic water users. The current study suggests that downstream water users in Babati district, who act as watershed service buyers, could collect a water user fee based on estimated amounts. This approach would help address declining water quality and quantity through improved watershed management and thus enhance watershed conservation and management.

Plant spatial configurations and their influences on phenological traits of cereal and legume crops under maize‐based intercropping systems

AbstractIntroductionIntercropping systems have a great potential for crop diversification thus increasing smallholder systems' resilience to climate change while improving soil health. However, optimal benefits associated with intercropping systems are rarely realised because of the interspecific competition for growth resources among the intercropped species.MethodologySix trials were established in the high and low rainfall agroecological zones of Babati district in Tanzania to assess how promising cropping systems with different plant spatial configurations would influence the phenological development of intercropped maize, bean and pigeonpea. Cropping systems under study included a sole maize system rotated with a pigeonpea‐bean intercrop dubbed Doubled‐up legume (DUL), maize‐pigeonpea system both with and without de‐topping, an innovation comprising double maize rows alternated with pigeonpea and beans (Mbili‐Mbili), maize‐pigeonpea system with two maize seeds sown within a 50 cm intra‐row space, a vertical‐architecture Meru H513‐pigeonpea system and a farmer practice.ResultsBranch formation was significantly higher in DUL than in maize‐based systems (p ≤ 0.05). Seasonal weather had upto 30% influence on pigeonpea flowering, with DUL having highest (p ≤ 0.05) flower production. The rate of pigeonpea branch and flower production in Mbili‐Mbili was stable across seasons relative to other maize‐pigeonpea systems. Doubled‐up legume and farmer practice had pigeonpea litter yield of between 1 and 2 t ha−1 which was at least 0.5 t ha−1 higher than in maize‐based systems (p ≤ 0.05). During the period preceding early maize reproductive stages, Mbili‐Mbili increased light interception by 30% and 63% compared to maize‐based systems and DUL, respectively. Maize toppings had higher (94%) P content than stover biomass that remained until harvest.ConclusionOverall, maize‐legume systems had higher intercropping efficacy than sole maize system, both in interception use efficiency, soil mulch cover, among other soil health benefits. Mbili‐Mbili and DUL also had increased phenological benefits on intercropped legumes however, the latter was prone to seasonal weather variability.

Enhancing Women’s Livelihoods through Development Funds: Evidence from Babati District Council, Tanzania

Enhancing Women’s Livelihoods through Development Funds: Evidence from Babati District Council, Tanzania

The Effectiveness of Mentoring Programs on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Tanzania: A Case of Babati District Council

Purpose: Women entrepreneurs in Tanzania are making significant contributions to their local economies, driving innovation, and creating employment opportunities. However, they still face numerous challenges, including limited access to financing, inadequate business skills, and gender-based discrimination.To address these challenges and unlock the full potential of women entrepreneurs, mentorship programs have emerged as a powerful mechanism.&#x0D; Methodology: The study examined the effect of empowering women entrepreneurs through mentoring programs, a case study of Babati District Council. The study used mixed research approach and employed sequential explanatory research design. Descriptive and regression analysis were used to analyze the data and presented by tables and figures.&#x0D; Findings: The findings revealed the strong relationship between mentorship programs and women entrepreneurs' empowerment, as evidenced by a high R-squared value of 0.76. This means that approximately 76% of the variation in women entrepreneurs' empowerment can be explained by mentorship programs. The significant relationship between mentorship programs and women entrepreneurs' empowerment is further supported by a low p-value of 0.001, indicating that the observed relationship is unlikely to be due to chance.The study concluded mentorship programs have a significant impact on women entrepreneurs' empowerment.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: From the findings, it recommended fostering mentorship opportunities to support and uplift women in their entrepreneurial journeys. This study has contributed to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field of mentoring programs for women entrepreneurs in Tanzania. The research has provided valuable insights and recommendations that can guide policymakers, practitioners, and researchers in their efforts to support women entrepreneurs. The study proposed a theoretical framework that elucidates the means by which mentoring programs can empower women entrepreneurs. It also identified crucial elements of effective mentoring programs, including regular meetings, clearly defined goals and expectations, active listening, and constructive feedback. Additionally, the study pushed for policies that foster an enabling environment for women entrepreneurs, including access to financing, education, and networking opportunities. Such policies can facilitate the growth and development of women-led enterprises.

Taenia solium Cysticercosis and Taeniosis Reporting in the Current Medical and Veterinary Diseases Reporting Systems in Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Taenia solium cysticercosis and taeniosis (TSCT) are two forms of a zoonotic disease caused by T. solium tapeworm. Towards promotion of a One Health approach to the control of TSCT, we assessed TSCT reporting in the medical and veterinay sectors in Tanzania. We conducted a cross-sectional study between January and April 2020 in Babati and Mbulu districts (northern Tanzania), Kongwa district (central Tanzania), Mbinga and Nyasa districts (southern Tanzania), and the Zonal Veterinary Centres in Iringa (southern Tanzania) and Arusha (northern Tanzania) regions. A questionnaire was administered to 154 officers in charge (OsIC) of primary healthcare facilities (PHFs) and 110 meat inspectors (MIs) to collect quantitative data. Key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted to 16 medical and 17 veterinary officers from level one healthcare facilities and district livestock offices, respectively, to their respective ministries. OsIC admitted absence of specific reporting (100%, n = 154) of T. solium taeniosis and neurocysticercosis (NCC) in the medical diseases reporting system (MDRS) despite the presence of optimum facilitation in terms of report preparation and submission (92.2%, n = 154) with 83.8% (n = 154) timely report submission rate. The veterinary diseases reporting system (VDRS) accommodated porcine cysticercosis (PCC) reporting. Nevertheless, approximately 77.3% (n = 110) of the MIs admitted inadequate facilitation in VDRS that hindered efficient reporting of PCC among other diseases. In addition, all MIs admitted that disease reports submitted were incomplete, submitted late (73.3%, n = 110), or not submitted at all (88.8%, n = 110). Similarly, KIIs results revealed suboptimal facilitation and reporting efficiency in VDRS than it was with the MDRS. It is concluded that the MDRS did not provide for specific reporting of taeniosis and NCC. Inadequate facilitation of the general VDRS hindered efficient PCC reporting despite its provision for PCC reporting. A One Health approach in strengthening the medical and veterinary diseases reporting systems for efficient TSCT reporting is recommended.

Zoonotic Parasites and Their Association With Human Activities in Northern Tanzania: An Integrated Ecosystem Approach for One Health.

The community's awareness of the prevalence and impact of zoonotic diseases has been significantly underestimated, leading to insufficient implementation of control measures. This study was carried out in Northern Tanzania between 2019 and 2023 to investigate zoonotic parasites and the risks associated with human activities that contribute to zoonotic diseases. Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 12 villages, including nine in Loliondo Division and three in Babati District. Focus Group Discussions and Key Informant Interviews were conducted to assess the community's knowledge and practices regarding the risks associated with zoonotic diseases in the surveyed areas. A total of 255 samples were collected from various sources, including latrines, households, livestock enclosures, domestic dogs, and chickens. Out of these samples, 152 tested positive for identifiable parasite eggs and oocysts. These parasites included hookworms (21.7%), Trichuris sp. (14.5%), Strongyloides sp. (13.8%), Eimeria sp. (19.7%), Taeniids (5.9%), Hymenolepis sp. (3.3%), Spirometra sp. (2.6%), and Dipylidium sp. (0.7%). Taeniids and Spirometra species were predominantly found in villages near protected areas such as Arash Sokoni, Oloipiri, Sukenya, Wasso, Orkuyiene, Haytemba, and Loliondo. Hookworms were most commonly detected in Arash Sokoni, Loliondo, Isuguro, and Hyatemba, while Strongyloides sp. was prevalent in Wasso, Sukenya, and Olobo villages. The quantitative analysis reveals significant associations between hygiene practices, proximity to livestock enclosures, ecological factors, and human-animal interaction, highlighting their pivotal roles in determining soil-transmitted helminth (STH) prevalence across different villages. This study reveals that there was a generally low level of awareness regarding zoonotic diseases and STHs. The detection of STH samples, combined with the limited understanding of zoonotic diseases, emphasizes the importance of taking proactive measures to reduce transmission risks. Prioritizing education and promoting awareness along with implementing comprehensive strategies are essential steps to effectively tackle the problems linked to STH infections and substantially lessen the public health burden caused by zoonotic diseases.

Assessment of Effectiveness of Procurement Planning on Procurement Performance of Public Organizations in Tanzania: A Study of Babati District Council

Assessment of Effectiveness of Procurement Planning on Procurement Performance of Public Organizations in Tanzania: A Study of Babati District Council

Extrapolation suitability index for sustainable vegetable cultivation in Babati district, Tanzania

Land suitability assessment matches crop requirements with available resources to promote sustainable production. Scaling out of sustainable agricultural intensification practices to suitable biophysical and socio-economic conditions reduces the risk of failure and increases their adoption rate. This study applies a geospatial framework to identify potentially suitable sites for extrapolating two improved vegetable cultivars grown under integrated management practices (IMP's) in Babati District of Tanzania. On-farm trial data on the yield and income of two cultivars were used as a reference. Extrapolation was based on the gridded biophysical and socio-economic layers that limit the production of the two improved vegetable cultivars'. The extrapolation suitability index (ESI) showed the areas where cultivation of the two improved vegetable cultivars under IMP's can be scaled-out with a potentially low risk of failure. We generate maps of the most important limiting factor for each cultivar in every pixel to guide the spatial targeting of appropriate remedial measures. Application of these maps will promote evidence-based scaling out of improved vegetable technologies by the extension and development agencies.

Adoption of Quality Protein Maize Technology in Hai and Babati Districts, Tanzania

Technology adoption is a crucial driver of economic growth. The paper assesses the acceptance of quality protein maize (QPM) among farmers in the Hai and Babati districts Tanzania. The study used a random sample of 120 smallholder maize farmers in four villages to collect information regarding the adoption of QPM in the study area. The study employed descriptive statistics to analyse the data collected. The results show that only 25% of the sampled farmers have adopted and are still using the technology. This outcome has a low adoption rate. The study recommends that the government ensure farmers use their inputs and outputs efficiently to achieve QPM. In addition, the government should promote and support QPM's promotion and dissemination activities in the country. Moreover, seed agents should ensure a sustainable supply and timely availability of seeds to farmers.

Assessment of Effectiveness of Procurement Planning on Procurement Performance of Public Organizations in Tanzania: A Study of Babati District Council

Assessment of Effectiveness of Procurement Planning on Procurement Performance of Public Organizations in Tanzania: A Study of Babati District Council

Morphometry and Molecular Identification of Haemonchus Cobb, 1898 (Trichostrongylidae: Nematoda) Isolates from Small Ruminants in Tanzania Based on Mitochondrial cox 1 and rRNA-ITS genes.

The genus Haemonchus is the major abomasal parasite of ruminants responsible for substantial economic losses in tropical and temperate regions. This study was conducted to clarify the morphometry and molecular characterisation of Haemonchus species isolated from sheep in Babati district, Tanzania. A total of 486 trichostrongylid nematodes were recovered from five sheep. Of the total worms, 106 nematodes were distinguished by 37 males and 69 females. The asymmetrical length of dorsal ray and the distance of bulb at the apex of spicules were used for identification of males. In females, the linguiform vulvar flap was the most predominant with 33 out of 69 (48%) compared with knobbed morph type which was 25/69 (36%) and smooth morph type with 11/69 (16%). Partial cox1 sequence fragments of Haemonchus contortus isolates showed 98.8%, 99.3%, 99.7%, 99.5%, 99.3%, and 98.4% in male, smooth, knobbed, linguiform A, linguiform B, and linguiform C, respectively; with the average nucleotide divergence ranged from 1.03 to 2.35%. The amplified fragments of ITS-2 genes in knobbed, linguiform A, and smooth morphotypes revealed 99.4%, 98.5%, and 98.3%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis was evaluated by employing Bayesian inference and maximum-likelihood, and the tree was distinctly separated into three clusters focusing on H. contortus in cluster I within the family Haemonchidae. Genetic drifting, mutation, and modification of the morphological features of the Haemonchus species described to have an impact on the development of drug resistance. Species identification is necessary to understand which species infect animal host. We recommend more studies on the parasites intensity and the strategies for controlling Haemonchus species in Tanzania.

Agronomic and economic performance of legume-legume and cereal-legume intercropping systems in Northern Tanzania

CONTEXTCereal-legume intercropping, a common practice among farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), is important for crop diversification, soil fertility improvement, household nutrition and climate adaptation. However, cereals often outcompete the intercropped legumes for growth resources resulting in low legume yields. OBJECTIVEThe objectives of this study were: i) assessing the effects of different intercropping options (crop spatial configurations) and maize crop (Zea mays L.) management innovations on productivity and economic benefits to farmers and ii) examining how farmers adapt new intercropping technologies to meet their household food security needs. METHODSThe study was undertaken in six on-farm researcher-designed and managed trials in high and low rainfall agro-ecological zones of Babati District in Tanzania, during four cropping seasons (2018–2021). The cropping systems tested included a sole maize system rotated with a legume-legume intercrop (Doubled-up legume), an innovation involving two maize rows intercropped with two legume species (Mbili-Mbili), maize-legume intercrop both with and without de-topping, maize-legume intercrop (2 maize plants at 50 cm intra-space, de-topped), maize-legume system (maize with vertical leaf architecture) and a farmer practice. The Mbili-Mbili technology adaptation assessment was conducted on 225 farmers during the 2021 cropping season. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONSOverall, maize grain yields increased by up to 56% in improved compared to farmer intercropping practices (P ≤ 0.05). There were no significant differences in maize grain yield among the improved practices. Significantly higher pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) yields of between 71% and 113% in 2020 and between 65% and 140% in 2021 were observed under Doubled-up legume and between 63% and 124% under local farmer practices in 2020 than in the improved cereal-legume practices. Across the study period, net revenues of sole maize and Doubled-up legume rotations were both the highest and lowest relative to other intercropping options, depending on the starting phase (US$ 653 sole maize and US$ 326 legume phase starting). These were also associated with the highest variances indicating instability. Mbili-Mbili intercropping system had not only high net revenue i.e., a mean of US$623 per hectare, but also more stable. Farmers perceived that Mbili-Mbili increased food security and 96% were willing to implement the system without project support. SIGNIFICANCEMbili-Mbili is recommended for adoption by farmers because of its potential economic benefits, food security and resilience in the current unpredictable weather and climate patterns.

Challenges in the Diagnosis of Taenia solium Cysticercosis and Taeniosis in Medical and Veterinary Settings in Selected Regions of Tanzania: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background Taenia solium (neuro) cysticercosis/taeniosis (TSCT) is a zoonotic disease complex. There is a perceived inefficient diagnosis of infections by either form, the adult pork tapeworm (taeniosis) and the larval stage of it (cysticercosis), in low-income settings, including Tanzania. This study aimed at identifying potential gaps around TSCT diagnosis and knowledge of primary healthcare providers (officers in charge (OICs) of primary healthcare facilities (PHFs)) and veterinarians (meat inspectors (MIs)) on various aspects of TSCT disease complex and addressing effective disease control in Tanzania. Methodology. A cross-sectional study was conducted between January and April 2020 in Manyara, Dodoma, Ruvuma, Iringa, and Arusha regions in Babati, Mbulu, Kongwa, Mbinga, and Nyasa districts. We interviewed 152 OICs of PHFs and 108 MIs using a structured questionnaire and 33 medical and veterinary officers from level I healthcare facilities and district livestock offices, respectively, from selected study districts to the respective ministerial level using key informant interviews. Results Quantitative data revealed inadequate microscopic diagnostic facilities (54.6%) and personnel (100%) for taeniosis diagnosis in PHFs (n = 152). Approximately 81.2% of MIs compared with only 42.1% of OICs of PHFs scored above average regarding T. solium cysticerci knowledge. Nevertheless, 61.2% of OICs of PHFs compared with only 42.6% of MIs scored above average regarding the adult T. solium tapeworm knowledge. Qualitative data revealed inadequate availability of advanced diagnostic facilities (neuroimaging) and trained personnel for specific diagnosis of TSCT with a focus on neurocysticercosis (NCC) in secondary and tertiary healthcare facilities. Inadequately number of qualified MIs, slaughter slabs, and resource facilitation challenged porcine cysticercosis diagnosis. Conclusion It is concluded that diagnostic capacity and knowledge of OICs of PHFs and MIs regarding TSCT are insufficient in both medical and veterinary sectors. A One Health approach should be adopted to improve TSCT diagnostic capacity and practitioners' knowledge in both medical and veterinary sectors.

Farmers' Participatory Plant Selection of Lablab (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) in Tanzania.

Farmer-participatory breeding approach is an important component in the crop improvement of lablab (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet). The study was carried out to obtain the knowledge, practices and preferences of lablab through 31 lablab growing-farmers from Arusha, Kondoa, Karatu, Same and Babati districts of Tanzania toward initiating a lablab breeding program. Semi-structured questionnaires were administered and focused group discussions were held to collect data on the socio-demographic factors, production practices, constraints and farmer’s preferred traits of lablab. Selection of preferred traits and accessions was also done by the farmers in the field. Results showed that the chief constraints of lablab production are pests and diseases, poor marketability, low seed quality, inadequate rainfall, expensive agrochemicals, low yield, and poor storage facilities. The major pests are pod borer (field) and bruchids (storage). Preferred traits for lablab improvement include the development of insect pests and disease-resistant varieties, early maturing, high yield, black colored seed for market, short cooking time, and dense foliage. Genotypes EK2, D360, HA4, and D96 with preferred traits were identified by farmers, which forms critical decisions in crop improvement. This study describes the current view of lablab production and generates the understanding of farmers’ perceptions and preferences vital for breeding priorities and programs to increase its production, utilization and consumption.

Preliminary investigation and intervention of the suspected plague outbreak in Madunga, Babati District-Tanzania

BackgroundRodents are known to be reservoirs of plague bacteria, Yesinia pestis in the sylvatic cycle. A preliminary investigation of the suspected plague outbreak was conducted in Madunga Ward, Babati District Council in Manyara Region December-2019-January 2020 Following reported two cases which were clinically suspected as showing plague disease symptoms. MethodThe commensal and field rodents were live trapped using Sherman traps in Madunga Ward, where plague suspect cases were reported and, in the Nou-forest reserve areas at Madunga Ward, Babati District Council, to assess plague risk in the area. Fleas were collected inside the houses using light traps and on the rodents ‘body after anaesthetizing the captured rodent to determine flea indices which are used to estimate the risk of plague transmission. Lung impression smears were made from sacrificed rodents to examine for possible bipolar stained Yersinia spp bacilli. ResultsA total of 86 rodents consisting of ten rodent species were captured and identified from the study sites. Nine forest rodent species were collected. Field/fallow rodent species were dominated by Mastomys natalensis. whereas domestic rodent species captured was Rattus rattus. Overall lung impression smear showed bipolar stain were 14 (16.28%) while House Flea Index (HFI) was 3.1 and Rodent Flea Index (RFI) was 1.8. ConclusionThe findings of this study have shown that, the presence of bipolar stained bacilli in lung impression smears of captured species of rodents indicates (not confirmed) possible circulation of Yesrsinia pests in rodents and the high flea indices in the area which included the most common flea species known to be plague vectors in Tanzania could have played transmission role in this suspected outbreak. The study recommends surveillance follow-up in the area and subject collected samples to the standard plague confirmatory diagnosis.

Using Intersectionality to Identify Gendered Barriers to Health-Seeking for Febrile Illness in Agro-Pastoralist Settings in Tanzania.

BackgroundResearch has shown that gender is a significant determinant of health-seeking behavior around the world. Gender power relations and lay etiologies of illness can influence the distribution of household resources, including for healthcare. In some rural settings in Africa, gender intersects with multiple forms of health inequities, from proximal socio-cultural factors to more “upstream” or distal health system determinants which can amplify barriers to health-seeking for specific groups in specific contexts.AimWe used an intersectionality approach to determine how women in particular, experience gendered barriers to accessing healthcare among Maa and non-Maa speaking agro-pastoralists in northern Tanzania. We also explored lay etiologies of febrile illness, perceptions of health providers and rural health-seeking behavior in order to identify the most common barriers to accessing healthcare in these settings.MethodsMixed method ethnographic approaches were used to collect data between 2016 and 2018 from four Maa-speaking and two Swahili-speaking agro-pastoralist villages in northern Tanzania. Maa-speaking villages were based in Naiti, Monduli district while non-Maa speaking villages were selected from Msitu in Babati district. Data on health seeking behaviors was collected through semi-structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and home and facility-based participant observation.FindingsThe results primarily focus on the qualitative outcomes of both studies. We found that febrile illness was locally categorized across a spectrum of severity ranging from normal and expected illness to serious illness that required hospital treatment. Remedial actions taken to treat febrile illness included attending local health facilities, obtaining medicines from drug sellers and use of herbal remedies. We found barriers to health-seeking played out at different scales, from the health system, community (inter-household decision making) and household (intra-household decision making). Gender-based barriers at the household had a profound effect on health-seeking. Younger married women delayed seeking healthcare the most, as they often had to negotiate health-seeking with husbands and extended family members, including co-wives and mothers-in-law who make the majority of health-related decisions.ConclusionAn intersectional approach enabled us to gain a nuanced understanding of determinants of health-seeking behavior beyond the commonly assumed barriers such lack of public health infrastructure. We propose tapping into the potential of senior older women involved in local therapy-management groups, to explore gender-transformative approaches to health-seeking, including tackling gender-based barriers at the community level. While these social factors are important, ultimately, improving the public health infrastructure in these settings is a first step toward addressing structural determinants of treatment-seeking.