Lindi Region Research Articles

Nfluence of Heads of School Instructional Supervision Practices on Teachers Work Performance in Public Secondary Schools in Lindi Region-Tanzania

The effectiveness of instructional supervision of heads of school to improve the teaching and learning performance has been questioned by various studies. This study investigated the instructional supervision role of heads of school and its influence on teachers’ work performance in public secondary schools in Lindi region, Tanzania. The study examined the extent to which heads of school discharged their instructional supervisory responsibilities and assessed the extent to which heads of school instructional supervisory activities influenced teachers work performance. The study was informed by mixed methods approach with a sample of 57 public secondary schools out of 124 public secondary schools found in the region. 171 respondents were included in the study including 103 teachers, 57 head masters and 11 class masters. The study used questionnaires; interviews and documents review as tools for data collection. Thematic analysis was used for the qualitative data, while for quantitative data, descriptive and inferential statistics were employed. The study revealed that despite the challenges that heads of school demonstrated a significant understanding of their supervisory instructional duties, but did not effectively engage teachers in improving professional skills. The analysis showed that teachers seemed to avoid conflicts with head teachers and hence limited mechanisms to improve performances. Keywords: Effective teaching, School leadership, Supervisory skills. DOI: 10.7176/JEP/13-14-01 Publication date: May 31 st 2022

Prevalence and risk factors of urogenital schistosomiasis among under-fives in Mtama District in the Lindi region of Tanzania.

IntroductionDespite the ongoing intervention for schistosomiasis control among school-age children in the Lindi region of Tanzania, urogenital schistosomiasis continues to be a public health problem, presumably because other at-risk populations are not covered in praziquantel deworming campaigns. Evidence shows that under-fives become infected in their early life hence the need to understand the disease profile and the risk factors for exposure to infection so as to plan effective control strategies in this group. This study examined the prevalence and risk factors of urogenital schistosomiasis among under-fives in the Mtama district, Lindi region of Tanzania.Methodology/Principal findingsA quantitative community-based cross-sectional study was carried out among 770 participants (385 under-fives and their 385 parents/guardians) in the Mtama district to investigate the burden and the risk factors associated with S. haematobium infection. A single urine specimen was collected from the under-fives and tested for macro and microhaematuria, presence of S. haematobium ova, and intensity of infection. A structured questionnaire gathered on risk factors for S. haematobium exposure in under-fives from their parents/guardians. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and logistic regression.Prevalence of S. haematobium ova was 16.9%, and that of macro and microhaematuria was 6% and 17.9%, respectively. Of the 65 positive under-fives, 49 (75.4%) 95% CI 65.4–86.3 had a light infection intensity, and 16 (24.6%) 95% CI 13.7–35.5 had a heavy infection intensity. Among the assessed risk factors, the parents/guardians habit of visiting water bodies for domestic routines (AOR: 1.44, 95% CI: 1.13–1.74), especially the river (AOR: 6.00, 95% CI: 1.20–35.12), was found to be a significant risk factor for infection of S. haematobium in under-fives.Conclusion/SignificanceA moderate prevalence of S. haematobium was found among the under-fives conceivably with adverse health events. The infected under-fives could be a source of continuity for transmission in the community. An intervention that covers this group is necessary and should be complemented with regular screening, health education campaigns, and an adequate supply of safe water.

Urogenital schistosomiasis knowledge, attitudes and practices among the community members in Lindi, Tanzania: A qualitative study

Background: Urogenital schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma haematobium (S. haematobium), remains a public health problem in Lindi region. Despite twelve rounds of praziquantel preventive chemotherapy. There is a scarcity of information on the factors perpetuating the transmission of S. haematobium in Lindi. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the urogenital schistosomiasis knowledge, attitudes, and practices among the community members in Mtama district in the Lindi region of Tanzania. Methodology: A cross-sectional study employing a qualitative approach was conducted in Mtama, Lindi in May 2021. The respondents were purposively sampled, and a total of 6 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs), 2 in each village were conducted. The FGDs were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed thematically to identify emerging themes. Results: Majority of respondents were aware of the endemicity of S. haematobium and the ongoing distribution of praziquantel preventive chemotherapy. Respondents had inadequate knowledge of the disease causation and the role of snails in disease transmission. Also, misconception on the modes of disease transmission was observed. Respondents had undesirable attitudes. They were against regular screening of urogenital schistosomiasis and were into the use of traditional ways of treatment to dodge screening and treatment costs. Respondents exhibited inappropriate water, sanitation, and hygienic practices (WaSH), thus perpetuating disease transmission. Conclusion: Despite the community being aware and knowledgeable of urogenital schistosomiasis, there is inadequate understanding of how the disease is transmitted, the roles of snails in S. haematobium transmission, coupled with undesirable attitudes and inappropriate practices. These potentially compromise the ongoing Government efforts to control the disease in Lindi region. Therefore, there is need to initiate a community-based health education programme targeting behaviour change.

Community perspectives on natural gas management in Tanzania

Several studies have discussed community participation in socio-economic projects. The studies have shown that many projects that have been initiated by either the government or private sectors have encountered resistance and reluctance from the local communities and other officials due to lack of prior and continuous involvements, poor dissemination of information on the significance of the projects, and differences in priority and interests. One of the key factors for the success and sustainability of any project is a clear understanding of the community's voluntary involvement, perspectives, and expectations of the given project. This study, therefore, aims to analyze the communities’ perspectives, expectations, and concerns related to the recent discovery and management of natural gas in Tanzania. The study adopted a questionnaire survey. Data was collected from the 115 respondents from local communities of Lindi and Mtwara regions in Tanzania. The study revealed that the communities are aware of the natural gas discoveries and policies and laws related to them. It shows that a small number of employment opportunities have been created and/or are expected to increase in the future. There should be transparency and accountability in the natural gas development, contracts, and agreements. The parliament should be the most trustworthy custodian of natural gas revenues. The study revealed that the natural gas sector would enhance the living conditions of Tanzanian households and support the attainment of the country's socio-economic development.

Accommodate or Reject: The Role of Local Communities in the Retention of Health Workers in Rural Tanzania.

Background: While over 70% of the population in Tanzania reside in rural areas, only 25% of physicians and 55% of nurses serve these areas. Tanzania operates a decentralised health system which aims to bring health services closer to its people through collaborative citizen efforts. While community engagement was intended as a mechanism to support the retention of the health workforce in rural areas, the reality on the ground does not always match this ideal. This study explored the role local communities in the retention of health workers in rural Tanzania. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was completed in two rural districts from the Kilimanjaro and Lindi regions in Tanzania between August 2015 and September 2016. Nineteen key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with district health managers, local government leaders, and health facility in-charges. In addition, three focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with 19 members of the governing committees of three health facilities from the two districts. Data were analysed using the thematic analysis technique. Results: Accommodation or rejection were the two major ways in which local communities influenced the quest for retaining health workers. Communities accommodated incoming health workers by providing them a good reception, assuming responsibility for resolving challenges facing health facilities and health workers, linking health workers to local communities and promoting practices that placed a high value on health workers. On the flip side, communities could also reject health workers by openly expressing lack of trust and labelling them as ‘foreigners,’ by practicing cultural rituals that health workers feared and discrimination based on cultural differences. Conclusion: Fostering good relationships between local communities and health workers may be as important as incentives and other health system strategies for the retention of health workers in rural areas. The role communities play in rural health worker retention is not sufficiently recognized and is worthy of further research.

Community Participation in Water Resources and Sanitation Management in Tanzania: A case Study of Lindi Region

Abstract

Acceptability of single screening and treatment policy for the control of malaria in pregnancy: perceptions of providers and pregnant women from selected health facilities in Lindi region, Tanzania

BackgroundTanzania started implementing single screening and treatment (SST) for all pregnant women attending their first antenatal care (ANC) visits in 2014, using malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) and treating those who test positive according to the national guidelines. However, there is a paucity of data to show the acceptability of SST to both pregnant women and health care workers (HCWs), taking into consideration the shortage of workers and the added burden of this policy to the health system. This study assessed the perceptions and opinions of health service users and providers to determine the acceptability of SST policy.MethodsPregnant women and HCWs in eight health facilities in two districts of Lindi region (Kilwa and Lindi) were interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires with open and close-ended questions. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected, including demographic characteristics, women’s experience, their perception on SST and challenges they face when receiving services for malaria offered at ANC. Experience of HCWs regarding the implementation of SST as part of routine services and the challenges encountered when providing ANC services for malaria in pregnancy (MIP) were also assessed.ResultsOf the 143 pregnant women interviewed, 97% viewed testing favourably and would wish to be tested for malaria again, while 95% were satisfied with services and reasons for testing during the first ANC visit. Nearly all (99%) would recommend their fellow pregnant women to be tested for malaria and all women recommended that the Ministry of Health should continue the SST strategy. This was despite the fact that 76% of the women experienced pain and 16% had anxiety as a result of finger prick. Sixteen HCWs (mostly nurses) were interviewed; they also viewed SST implementation favourably and reported feeling empowered to use RDTs for malaria screening. The main challenge identified by HCWs was that nurses are not allowed to prescribe anti-malarials to women who test positive and need to refer them to the outpatient department for treatment.ConclusionSST was considered an acceptable approach to control MIP by HCWs and pregnant women, and they recommended the continuation of the policy. In addition, consideration should be given to implementing a task-shifting policy to allow nurses to dispense anti-malarials to pregnant women.

Investigation on The Level of Insecticide Resistance to Malaria Vectors in Ruangwa District Lindi Region Tanzania

High malaria prevalence remains a major problem in Ruangwa District, despite the high coverage rates of malaria control interventions. The objective of this study was to assess the level of insecticide resistance in malaria vectors in southern, Tanzania. The study was conducted in three villages of Likangara, Nandagara and Chienjere. Resistance level to insecticides in An. gambiae s.l was evaluated using a standard WHO Susceptibility Test Kit. These mosquitoes were reared from larvae collected in varoius breeding sites in a major rice, vegetable and leguminous plant cultivation area in which pesticides use is intensive. Each test was run in four replicates of 25 adult non-blood fed female Anopheles gambiae s.l mosquitoes per tube. In total, 100 specimens were exposed for standard concentration of 1% fenitrothion, 0.1% bendiocarb, 0.75% permethrin and 0.05% deltamethrin using WHO susceptibility test kit. The number of knocked down mosquitoes were recorded at 10,15,20,30,50 and 60 min and mortality rates were determined after 24 hours and results were classified according to WHO guidelines, as susceptible (97-100%), possible resistance (90%-98%) and resistance (<90%). The results indicate suggestive levels of mosquitoes resistance to Bendiocarb at (75%), possible resitance levels of Deltamethrin at (95%), Permethrin at (97%) and Fenitrothion at (96%) (p < 0.05). This implies that there is reduced effectiveness of insecticides used in vector control interventions in the district. Superior insecticides should made available and introduced in order to promote the sustainable management of malaria vectors and elimination malaria transmission in the district.

English

Lindi region has high stunting prevalence of about 35%, and one of the factors that cause stunting is inadequate intake of micronutrients for children under 2 years old. This study aimed at assessing contribution of fish in improving micronutrients, specifically vitamin A, zinc and iron contents in complementary foods for children aged 6 to 23 months old children in Lindi Rural District. A cross-sectional study was done; interviews were conducted on 212 caregivers with children aged 6 to 23 months at Mchinga Ward. Information collected includes demographic information and commonly consumed complementary foods for targeted children through the use of 24 h dietary recall. Also, laboratory analysis for zinc, iron, vitamin A contents and proximate composition were done for commonly consumed foods. About 89.2% of children were given fish-based complementary foods. On average, fish-based complementary foods had higher vitamin A concentrations (279 µg RE/100 g serving) compared to non-fish-based complementary foods (4 µg RE/100 g serving), but low in iron and zinc concentrations (0.66 and 0.067 mg/100 g serving, respectively) than non-fish-based complementary foods (0.74 and 0.074 mg/100 g serving respectively). Furthermore, fish-based complementary foods had higher proximate composition (except for % moisture content) compared to non-fish-based complementary foods. Key words: Lindi, fish, complementary foods, children, micronutrients.

Perceptions of Factors Leading to Teenage Pregnancy in Lindi Region, Tanzania: A Grounded Theory Study

High prevalence of teenage pregnancy in low-income countries impacts health, social, economic, and educational situations of teenage girls. To acquire better understanding of factors leading to high prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural Lindi region, Tanzania, we explored perspectives of girls and key informants by conducting a facility-based explorative qualitative study according to the grounded theory approach. Participants were recruited from Mnero Diocesan Hospital using snowball sampling, between June and September 2018. Eleven pregnant teenagers, two girls without a teenage pregnancy, and eight other key informants were included. In-depth interviews (including photovoice) and field observations were conducted. Analysis of participant perspectives revealed five main themes: 1) lack of individual agency (peer pressure, limited decision-making power, and sexual coercion); 2) desire to earn money and get out of poverty; 3) dropping out of school contributing to becoming pregnant; 4) absence of financial, material, psychological, or emotional support from the environment; and 5) limited access to contraception. A majority of girls reported the pregnancy to be unplanned, whereas some girls purposely planned it. Our findings and the resulting conceptual framework contribute to a new social theory and may inform national and international policies to consider the needs and perspectives of teenagers in delaying pregnancy and promoting sexual and reproductive health in Tanzania and beyond.

<strong><em>Sansevieria pfennigii</em> (Ruscaceae, Asparagales): Confirmation of existence, emendation of description, and tentative threat assessment</strong>

Sansevieria pfennigii, which to date has been a doubtful species, is confirmed as extant by a recent collection from the Lindi Region in southern Tanzania. The original description of the species, which is based on herbarium material only, is here emended based on additional observations recorded from living plants, including fruits that were previously unknown. Sansevieria pfennigii distinguishes from S. canaliculata, to which it was repeatedly assigned, by its capitate instead of elongate inflorescence, rough rather than smooth leaves, non-pungent instead of pungent leaf tips, dull green leaf colour, more delicate overall appearance, alongside other traits. The difference in inflorescence architecture indicates that these species belong to different groups within Sansevieria and are not closely related; the closest relatives of S. pfennigii are probably S. fischeri and S. stuckyi. Sansevieria pfennigii occurs on well-drained soil in forests, close to S. canaliculata populations. According to the extent of the population seen and the species’ overall rarity, it is tentatively assessed as critically endangered.

Factors Associated with HIV Viral Load suppression AmongAdults at HIV Care and Treatment Centers in Dodoma, Mtwaraand Lindi Region, July 2018-June 2019

Despite the increase number of people living with HIV still there are limited information about the factors associated with viral load suppression among HIV+ individual enrolled into HIV care and treatment centers in Tanzania. Data reports that 87% of those who are living with HIV have attained viral suppression. However this is still low compare to the UNAIDS global targets that by 2020 of 90% on treatment must achieve viral suppression. Viral load remains a gold standard for assessing treatment outcome for those who are on treatment. In 2014 UNAIDS introduced 90- 90-90 goal so as to combat HIV epidemic by 2020. First 90% know there status, second 90 accessing treatment and Third 90% viral suppression. The aim of this study was therefore to identify factors affecting viral load suppression among HIV+ adults attending care and treatment services in the regions. Crossectional analytical study conducted at Dodoma, Mtwara and Lindi regions in randomly selected health facilities. 459 participants who are on ART for atleast 12 months and 18+ years were recruited for the study. Structured questionnaire was used. Data was entered, cleaned and analyzed using EPI info 7.2.2.16. Odds ratio was used to establish association, 95% CI, and P value of 0.05 were used for statistically significance. A total of 459 study participants were enrolled. The prevalence of viral load suppression was 79%. Viral load suppression was found to be association with Satisfaction to care OR, 11.6 (95% CI: 1.2, 113.6) and Stigma level OR, 2.5 (95% CI: 1.03, 6.1) and found to be statistically significant. Majority of participants were female 165 (68.6%), married 185 (40.3%), with primary education 309 (67.3%) and 280 (61%) had small business or self-employed. Those younger than 35 years had a 70% reduced chance of having viral load suppression OR 0.7 (95% CI: 0.41 OR 1.18), gender OR 0.85 (95% CI: 0.5,1.35), marital status OR, 0.93 ( 95% CI: 0.59, 1.47), those with primary education level OR, 0.47, (95% CI: 0.22 OR 0.99), duration on ART OR, 0.46 (95%:0.15,1.42) disclosure status OR, 0.39 (95% CI: 0.15, 1.01)there were found to be associated with viral suppression but not statistically significant. Satisfaction with care and low level of stigma were associated with viral load suppression.

The effects of seaward distance on above and below ground carbon stocks in estuarine mangrove ecosystems

BackgroundMangrove forests have gained recognition for their potential role in climate change mitigation due to carbon sequestration in live trees, and carbon storage in the sediments trapped by mangrove tree roots and pneumatophores. Africa hosts about 19% of the world’s mangroves, yet relatively few studies have examined the carbon stocks of African mangroves. The available studies report considerable differences among sites and amongst the different pools of carbon stocks. None considered the effects of seaward distance. We present details of AGC and SOC carbon stocks for Lindi in Tanzania, and focus on how these values differ with increasing seaward distance and, how our results compare to those reported elsewhere across Africa.ResultsAGC ranged between 11 and 55 Mg C ha−1, but was not significantly affected by seaward distance. SOC for 0–1 m depth ranged from 154 to 484, with a mean of 302 Mg C ha−1. SOC was significantly negatively correlated with seaward distance. Mangrove type (estuarine/oceanic), soil erosion, soil depth may explain these differences We note important methodological differences in previous studies on carbon stocks in mangroves in Africa.ConclusionThis study indicates that seaward distance has an important effect on SOC stocks in the Lindi region of Tanzania. SOC should be fully incorporated into national climate change mitigation policies. Studies should report seaward distance and to describe the type of mangrove stand to make results easily comparable across sites and to assess the true value of Blue Carbon in Africa. We recommend focusing on trees > 10 cm diameter for AGC, and sampling soils to at least 1 m depth for SOC, which would provide a more complete assessment of the potentially considerable mangrove carbon store.

Evaluation of a single screen and treat strategy to detect asymptomatic malaria among pregnant women from selected health facilities in Lindi region, Tanzania

BackgroundIn areas of high transmission, malaria in pregnancy (MiP) primarily causes asymptomatic infections; these infections nonetheless increase the risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. In 2014, Tanzania initiated a single screening and treatment (SST) strategy for all pregnant women at their first antenatal care (ANC) visit using malaria rapid diagnostic tests (RDT) for surveillance purposes. However, there is paucity of data on the effectiveness of SST in the prevention of MiP. The objective of this study was to estimate the number of asymptomatic infections among pregnant women detected by SST, which would have been missed in the absence of the policy.MethodsData from pregnant women attending their first ANC visits between October 2017 and June 2018, including gestational age, history of fever, and RDT results, were abstracted from ANC registers in eight health centres in two randomly selected districts, Kilwa and Lindi, in Lindi Region. The proportion of symptomatic (with history of fever in the past 48 h) and asymptomatic pregnant women with positive RDTs were calculated and stratified by trimester (first, second and third). The study areas were categorized as low transmission with prevalence < 10% or moderate/high with ≥ 10%.ResultsOver the study period, 1,845 women attended their first ANC visits; 22.1% were in the first trimester (< 12 weeks gestation age). Overall 15.0% of the women had positive RDTs, and there was a trend towards higher malaria prevalence in the first (15.9%) and second (15.2%) trimesters, compared to the third (7.1%), although the differences were not statistically significant (p = 0.07). In total, 6.9% of women reported fever within the past 48 h and, of these, 96.1% were RDT positive. For every 100 pregnant women in the moderate/high and low transmission areas, SST identified 60 and 26 pregnant women, respectively, with asymptomatic infections that would have otherwise been missed. Among the 15.9% of women detected in the first trimester, 50.7% were asymptomatic.ConclusionIn areas of moderate/high transmission, many infected women were asymptomatic, and would have been missed in the absence of SST. The benefits on maternal and fetal birth outcomes of identifying these infections depend heavily on the protection afforded by treatment, which is likely to be greatest for women presenting in the first trimester when intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is contraindicated, and in areas with high SP resistance, such as most parts of Tanzania. An evaluation of the impact and cost-effectiveness of SST across different transmission strata is warranted.

The Role of Women in Maji Maji War from 1905 to 1907 in Matumbiland, Ngindo and Ngoniland War Zones, Tanzania

This paper explored the role of women in Maji Maji war of 1905-1907, which was carried in Matumbi land/Ngindo areas, especially at Nandete village, Kibata village and Kilwa-Kipatimu in Lindi Region where the event started and in Ngoni land at Mahenge area, Old Igumbiro village, Kitanda village, Namabengo village, and Peramiho area in Ruvuma Region where the war ended. A qualitative research design was employed through an in-depth interview method to gather specific information on the role of women in the Maji Maji war. Secondary sources were obtained from libraries and memorial museums and YouTube historical clips transcription as well as short film historical analysis were also used. Content analysis was used to explore and analyze the role assumed by women in the Maji Maji war. The study revealed that women in the Maji Maji war of 1905-1907 played a pivotal and nationalistic role through planning, organizing and dividing strategic war zones. Some women carried and distributed the Maji-Medicines to the Maji Maji fighters in the fighting camps. Moreover, women prepared and supplied food to the Maji Maji fighters which enabled them to prolong fighting with their rivals – Germans despite the poor weapons the natives were using. The researcher recommends that for Tanzania to strive and ensure fair and progressive society, women should not be left behind and neglected in the reconstruction of its objective historical knowledge. They should be effectively used in building the economy of the nation by being given positions in both government and non-government organizations.

Characterization and chemical management of Cashew Fusarium Wilt Disease caused by Fusarium oxysporum in Tanzania

Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is the present leading currency earning crop in Tanzania, generating income to over 2.5 million farmers. Despite of its importance, cashew is threatened by a new serious destructive disease called Cashew Fusarium Wilt (CFWD), which is caused by Fusarium oxysporum. The impact of the disease has reduced income at both household and national levels. The current study was conducted to characterize CFWD and investigate chemical management options for the disease. The study was conducted during the rainy and off-rainy season(s) at Tuungane-Liwale and Kitangari-Newala in Lindi and Mtwara regions respectively. Disease characterization involved field observation of the infected cashew trees, laboratory isolation and characterization of the causative agent. Chemical management involved application of azoxystrobin, carbendazim and thiophanate methyl each at a concentration of 5, 10 and 15 g of formulated product/L. Laboratory findings revealed that the causative agent of the cashew wilting symptoms is Fusarium oxysporum characterized by whitish mycelia growth, chlamydospores, macroconidia and microconidia. The tested chemical fungicides revealed significant effects on the suppression of Fusarium wilt disease and thus enhancing cashew recovery after 120 days of application. Azoxystrobin and carbendazim reduced severity and enhanced recovery. Application of azoxystrobin (15 g/L) promoted 65.2 percent recovery of cashew from 50.0 percent of disease severity and 10 g/L of carbendazim enhanced 49.4 percent of cashew recovery from 50.0 percent severity. Thiophanate methyl exhibited significant effect (P ≤ 0.05) on reducing the severity of the disease and enhancing cashew recovery whereby 15 g/L of thiophanate methyl enhanced 21.6 percent recovery from 45.0 percent severity. These findings advocate the administration of these chemicals, especially carbendazim and azoxystrobin in proper concentration for timely disease management in the affected areas. Studies to establish the effect of the applied chemicals to other biota for betterment and continued applications to combat the disease are underway.

Preferences and Consumption of Pigeon Peas among Rural Households as Determinants for Developing Diversified Products for Sustainable Health

Pigeon peas are legumes with a high nutritional value. Existing studies of pigeon peas in Tanzania mainly examine production and marketing, but little has been documented with respect to consumer preferences and the consumption of pigeon peas. This study assesses the preferences surrounding pigeon peas and their consumption as bases for the development of diversified and shelf-stable products for nutrition and income improvement. This study comprised 303 randomly selected farming households. Furthermore, 60 farmers participated in six focus group discussions in the Lindi region. A structured questionnaire and a checklist with guided questions were provided for data collection. The analysis uses SPSS (V.21), with differences between groups established using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests. The associations were tested using Spearman’s ρ at p &lt; 0.05. The mean pigeon peas consumption during the harvesting and lean seasons was 80 g/person/day and 18 g/person/day, respectively. The frequency of consumption was higher during the harvesting season (92%) than the lean (29%) season. The majority of farmers (91%) preferred to consume the local variety, with 84% of them consuming pigeon peas as stew. Five pigeon pea recipes exist in the area. The farmers identified availability, taste, source of income, and familiarity as the factors determining pigeon pea consumption and preferences. With limited recipes and other barriers limiting consumption, the creation of innovative ideas for the development of diversified and shelf-stable products fitting their consumption preferences is needed.

Environmental Implication of Sesame Production in Tanzania: A Case Study of Kilwa District, Lindi Region

This paper analyses the possibilities for sustainable land use management at farm level to preserve the tropical rainforest in the Lindi region, Tanzania. It investigates the implication of agricultural production, in particular a high valued sesame production on household deforestation in Kilwa district, in Lindi region. The choice of the study area is because Lindi region is one of the leading sesame producers in the country. The analysis is based on data collected in Kilwa district, from a sample of 310 households in six village. The key question in the questionnaire administered to heads of households was, among others, factors that influenced their decision to clear new land for sesame farming in the previous crop season. Thus, the study set out to understand drivers of deforestation in Lindi region at the household level. Using bivariate Probit model it investigated whether sesame production influenced clearance of new area. The main findings of this study indicate that even though sesame production influence household welfare positively, it is also likely to affect the environment negatively. It recommends the need to put in place appropriate policies and infrastructure such that farmers can increase productivity without the need to expand farm land.&#x0D; JEL Classification: Q1, Q17

A New Coral Genus with Prominent, Ramified Main Septum (Aptian, Tanzania)

The new coral Heteroamphiastrea loeseri gen. et sp. nov., Family Carolastraeidae, Superfamily Heterocoenioidea, is described from the lower Aptian of the Lindi Region (Tendaguru area) in southeast Tanzania. The new genus is characterised by a cerioid colony type, an underdeveloped septal system with bilateral symmetry defined by a strong main septum with secondary outgrowths and the presence of a marginarium. Overall, this monospecific genus shows skeletal features of the family Carolastraeidae, but like other genera of the family, it shares some morphological features with the families Heterocoeniidae (Heterocoenioidea) and Amphiastreidae (Amphiastreoidea). Heteroamphiastrea gen. nov. exemplifies corals with relatively rare morphology. They are the most controversial Mesozoic corals without consensus on high-rank taxonomy. Heterocoenioidea and Amphiastreoidea have been recently classified into the suborder Heterocoeniina, Amphiastreina or Pachythecaliina, separately or together. Further, they were classified into the Order Scleractinia or into the extinct Order Hexanthiniaria.

Understanding the Rural–Rural Migration of Health Workers in Two Selected Districts of Tanzania

Globally, rural–urban migration has been the focus in addressing the question of availability of health workers in rural areas. Often, the rural–rural migration of health workers, another important dimension is neglected. This study aimed to analyze the magnitude and the underlying factors for rural–rural migration of health workers in two rural districts of Tanzania. An exploratory comparative cross-sectional study adopting both quantitative and qualitative approaches was carried out in two districts of Kilwa in Lindi region, southern Tanzania, and Rombo in Kilimanjaro region, northern Tanzania. In a quantitative approach, 174 health workers (both clinicians and nonclinicians) filled in a self-administered questionnaire between August 2015 and September 2016. For the qualitative sub-study, 14 key informants that included health facilities in-charges and district health managers from the two districts were interviewed. In addition, three focus group discussions were conducted with members of the health facilities committee, in the two districts. Over 40% of health workers migrated from one workstation to another between 2011 and 2015. Close to 70% of the migrated health workers, migrated within the same districts. The proportion of health workers migrated was higher in Kilwa compared to Rombo. However, the difference was not statistically significant. The major underlying factors for migration in both districts were: Caring for the family and Unfavorable working and living conditions. In Kilwa, unlike Rombo, rejection by the community, superstitious beliefs, and lack of social services, were the other major factors underlying migration of the health workers. While addressing rural–urban migration, attention should be paid also to the rural–rural migration of health workers. Lastly, addressing the migration of health workers is a multi-dimensional issue that needs the engagement of all stakeholders within and beyond the health sector.