Masters Theses and Dissertations [LiSBE]

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Epidemiology of brucellosis in smallholder dairy cattle in Hai and Meru Districts, Northern Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2024-06) Elisha, Peter
Brucellosis is an endemic zoonotic disease in most developing countries caused by a facultative intracellular gram-negative bacterium of the genus Brucella. Brucellosis is one of the six priority zoonotic diseases in Tanzania with high social economic effects. A recently upsurge of brucellosis cases under the smallholder dairy cattle farming in many urban areas in Tanzania is a public health concern. A cross sectional study was conducted between January and June 2022 to establish the seroprevalence of brucellosis and possible risk factors in smallholder dairy cattle farming in the Hai and Meru Districts. To determine the seroprevalence, blood samples were analyzed for Brucella circulating antibodies using the Rose Bengal Plate Test and Competitive Enzyme Linked Immuno-Sorbent Assay. A structured questionnaire was presented to 200 smallholder dairy cattle farmers to explore the potential risk factors associated with brucellosis among dairy cattle in the study area. A total of 400 cattle were blood sampled from 10 villages in each district. The overall seroprevalence of bovine brucellosis was 0.50% and 0% for the Hai and Meru districts, respectively. Analysis of knowledge and management practices of brucellosis in the study areas showed that the majority of farmers (74.5%) knew the disease name; though, majority of them (87.9%) were not aware of the disease clinical signs. The indoor farming system mostly practiced in Hai and Meru District could have contributed to the observed low seroprevalence; thus, brucellosis free certification scheme can be implemented for continuous management of brucellosis in animals and humans as recommended by FAO.
Epidemiologic study of q fever in smallholder dairy cattle in selected regions of Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08-20) Bwatota, Shedrack
A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine prevalence and the risk factors associated with Coxiella burnetii seropositivity in smallholder dairy cattle in six regions from the southern highland and northern zones of Tanzania between July 2019 and October 2020. A total of 2049 blood samples and 1920 vaginal swabs were collected from dairy cattle. Serum was tested for antibodies against C. burnetii using an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). C. burnetii DNA was identified from vaginal swabs using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analyses. A questionnaire survey was designed and uploaded to the Open Data Kit (ODK) cloud platformsoftware version 1.22.4. At each household, the cattle owner aging equal or over 18 years was interviewed to understand the risk factors related to animal health, husbandry, and farmer socioeconomics, as well as environmental variables. C. burnetii prevalence was calculated at different epidemiological levels and maps were created to visualize Q fever spatial distribution. Logistic generalized linear mixed effects models were built to explorethe association between ELISA binomial results, and a set of risk factors and environmental variables important for C. burnetii occurrence. An overall animal seroprevalence of 3.86% (79, 2049) 95% CI 3.06 - 4.78 was estimated across the study regions. Among these regions, Tanga (northern zone) and Iringa (southern zone) showed the highest prevalence with 8.21% (95% CI 6.0 - 10.89%) and 4.63% (95% CI: 2.49 - 7.78%) respectively. On the other hand, molecular identification of C. burnetii from vaginal swabs of selected cows revealed an overall prevalence of 0.94% (18,1920) (95% CI 0.5-1.4%). Among the northern zone regions, Arusha had the highest of 2.3%(95%CI 0.9-4.7%) and on the southern highlands zone, Iringa emanated to have the highest prevalence of 0.73% (95%CI 0.08-2.5%). Animal age, extensive feeding system, and temperature were univariably significant risk factors to C. burnetii seropositivity. The final multivariable logistic regression model showed that old animal age, extensive feeding system, and low precipitation were strongly associated with Q fever seropositivity. These findings indicate that C. burnetii circulates among smallholder dairy cattle across regions in Tanzania. However, Tanga, Arusha and Iringa are the three regions with the highest seroprevalence and should be considered for systematic and active surveillance. Furthermore, “One Health” approaches are necessary to fully understand disease transmission and control of this zoonotic disease.
Seasonal variation in forage availability and nutritional composition of the black rhino (diceros bicornis michaeli) diet in Mkomazi National Park, Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Sisya, Emanuel
A study was conducted on rhino forage availability and diet to gather vital information for the sustainable conservation of critically endangered black rhino populations. Specifically, the study was set to establish the quantity and quality of natural forages browsed by rhinos in Mkomazi National Park (MKONAPA) as affected by seasonality. This study was prompted by the observed decline in body condition during dry periods, highlighting the need for a better understanding of forage quantity and quality in the area. The current study aimed to investigate seasonal variations in the black rhino diet at MKONAPA by comparing foraging, browsing intensity, forage preference and nutritional composition of the most preferred forage between wet and dry seasons. A simple-random sampling technique was deployed to select 58 square grids in the wet and dry seasons (replication), and plots were laid for vegetation assessment and plant sample collection in the Mkomazi rhino sanctuary (MRS). Browses foraged by rhinos were compared with rhino feeding data from fourteen rhino-range areas within Africa savannah. Results showed that more than 85% of species edible in MKONAPA were similar to those in rhino range areas. The diversity of consumed browses was higher (t = 4.58, p<0.001) in wet season than in dry season. Forage browsing intensity by rhinos correlated positively with forage preference and was significantly high (w= 482, p<0.001) in dry season when browse availability was low. Forage nutrient composition was within the average level reported in browses consumed by free-ranging rhinos within Africa savannah, but the crude fat (3.07 ± 1.04%) and crude protein (9.33 ± 1.45%) were marginally low in dry season, while zinc was low in both seasons. This study established seasonal variation in dietary composition, browsing intensity and nutritional composition. This study suggests establishing a monitoring program of preferred and highly nutritional forages for rhino diet during the dry season, assessing the density of competitor browsers, supplementing rhinos with lucerne diet during prolonged dry seasons and mineral (zinc) licks to improve rhino body condition status and health in the sanctuary.
Rabbit urine and sunflower oil reinforced tephrosia-based formulation for cowpea insectpests management in Singida, Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-07) Matle, Agricola
Insect pests are a major problem in cowpea production. Synthetic pesticides are used to control; however, are non-friendly to human and diversity of organisms. These negative effects raise farmers' interest in botanical pesticides due to less harmful effects on the ecosystem. Tephrosia vogelii extracts, rabbit urine, and sunflower oil were assessed for synergistic effects against cowpea field’s insectpest’s including aphids, pod borer, leaf miner, and beneficial insects. The ingredients were combined in ratio of 10% (w/v) Tephrosia Vogelii (T), 50% (v/v) rabbit urine (U), and 10% (v/v) of sunflower oil (O), while unsprayed plots and synthetic pesticide (Lambda- cyhalothrin 2.5 EC) were control negative and positive, respectively. The experiment was laid down in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Spraying was done weekly where abundances for insects were recorded a day before next schedule. Results showed significant difference P≤0.001 in insect pest counts between treatments. The positive control exhibited smaller mean number (4.3 ± 0.3 d, 4.7±0.3 a and 5.0±0.6 a), followed by combined formulation OUT at a mean (11.0 ± 0.6 c, 8.0±0.6 b, and 4.3±0.3 a) for aphid, leaf miner, and pod borer respectively compared to negative control and individual ingredients (O, U and T) evidencing synergy. The results also indicated the combined formulation (Oil, rabbit urine and Tephrosia) OUT showed comparable yield of (846.1 kg/ha) with control positive (794.6 kg/ha) while uncombine formulation and negative control showed lower yield of 520.6 kg/ha, 611.1 (kg/ha), 662.2 kg/ha, and 483.3 kg/ha respectively. Based on the results, OUT-formulation exhibits synergy for managing cowpea’s insectpest’s, however study on cost-benefit is recommended.
Predation efficacy of anopheles funfests larvae by Aquatic predators in rural South Eastern –Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Mahenge, Herieth
The study aimed to examine the impact of 3 common predator on Anopheles funestus larvae. Specifically, (a) The impact of predator on larval and adult density (b) The impact of aquatic predation on fitness traits of Anopheles funestus mosquitoes (wing size, larval and adult survivals) in the semi-field system. Three selected predator families (Aeshnidae, Coenagriondae and Notonectidae) and Anopheles funestus group larvae were collected from the natural aquatic habitats in rural south eastern Tanzania and transferred to the semi-field system (Mosquito city) at Ifakara Health Institute. Anopheles funestus larvae were exposed to artificial habitats with predators. The number of surviving Anopheles funestus larvae were counted after 24 hours. Remaining larvae were monitored until all they are consumed or developed into pupae stage. An emerged trap was placed at the top of artificial habitats to capture an emerging mosquito. Emerged mosquitoes were provided 10% glucose solution- soakes cotton wool and their 24 hours mortality were recorded. Wings of died female mosquitoes were measured and used as a proxy for their body sizes. All predators were significantly reduced the Anopheles funestus density, affect the survival and wing sizes of emerged mosquitoes. Coenagrionidae were most efficient predators followed by Notonectidae while Aeshinidae were least efficient predators on Anopheles funestus larvae. The current study suggest that these aquatic predators may play an important role as complementary tool in reducing Anopheles funestus larval population and hence contribute to the reduction of the malaria vectors in Southern eastern Tanzania. Further investigations should be done in a real natural aquatic habitat
Assessment of needs and contents of a customized digital tool for retention to care and Medication adherence among pregnant and Breastfeeding women living with HIV/AIDS in Kilimanjaro
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Maro, Rehema
Retention in care and adherence to medication among pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV (PBWLH) are crucial for prevention of mother to child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. Wide coverage of mobile phones, digital tools, including the use of internet enabled medication dispensers and short message service (SMS), have been recommended as potential interventions to improve adherence to medication by PBWLH. The main objective of the study was to understand the needs and contents for a customized digital tool for retention in care and medication adherence among PBWLH. A mixed-methods study was conducted from September 2021 to March 2022 at five health facilities in Kilimanjaro region. Pregnant and breastfeeding women receiving PMTCT services were included in a survey using a semi-structured questionnaire. Among the interviewed, twenty breastfeeding women were purposively selected and enrolled to use an internet enabled Wisepill medication dispenser for one month. They received different types of SMS reminders for a period of one month and feedback on their adherence patterns was received after one month using adherence graph from the Wisepill digital tool. Later, exit interviews, in- depth interviews were conducted to explore needs and contents for a future customized digital adherence tool. Descriptive analyses for quantitative data and thematic content analyses for qualitative data were also done. Among 142 women interviewed, 42(30%) were pregnant and 100 (70%) were breastfeeding. A majority of 136 (95%) had access to mobile phones and used SMS daily, while 90% were interested in receiving reminder messages. Qualitative findings revealed more insights on reminders’ content and educational SMS. Most people preferred neutral SMS which does not contain the word “medication”. Health educational SMS content was preferred to be on breastfeeding, opportunistic diseases, nutrition and entrepreneurship education. Overall, SMSs were regarded helpful to remind clients on medication time and the medication dispenser provided them with privacy and safe storage for their medication. Findings from this study will help to construct useful content for future digital adherence tools to support the health of pregnant and breastfeeding women living with HIV.
Seroprevalence, knowledge, and practices of Dengue and Chikungunya in Dar es salaam and Zanzibar: selected hospital-based cross-sectional study
(NM-AIST, 2022-02) Shauri, Suleiman
The potential shift of significant causes of febrile illnesses from malaria to non-malarial febrile illnesses, including arboviral diseases such as Chikungunya and Dengue, is of great concern. Two cross sectional studies were conducted at Mnazi mmoja in Zanzibar and Temeke hospital in Dar es Salaam Tanzania. The first study assessed the prevalence, knowledge, and practices regarding Chikungunya and Dengue, among individuals attending outpatient departments at Mnazi mmoja in Zanzibar and Temeke hospital in Dar es Salaam Tanzania. The second study involved serological testing of blood samples from the blood bank at Temeke Referral Hospital in Dar es Salaam and the National Blood Bank Unit in Zanzibar was conducted. Seropositive IgM samples from Temeke hospital in Dar es Salaam were 3/101 (2.97%) for Chikungunya and 1/101 (0.9%) for Dengue, while samples from Zanzibar were all IgM negative for both viruses. Chikungunya IgG seropositivity was significantly higher (p≤0.05) in Temeke hospital in Dar es Salaam 21/101 (21.2%) than Zanzibar 22/180 (12.2%). There was no significant difference in Dengue IgG seropositivity between Temeke hospital in Dar es Salaam 44/101 (43.5%) and Zanzibar 68/180 (37.8%). A total of 332 patients were recruited through a systematic random sampling technique from Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam hospitals. Participants from Dar-es-Salaam had demonstrated lower preventive practices as compared to those from Zanzibar. Only 10.2% of all participants had high knowledge of Dengue and Chikungunya, while only 4.5% were aware of preventive practices. Our results show continuing exposure of Dengue and Chikungunya virus in Tanzania, it associates with low awareness and poor preventive practices. If steps are not taken, may act as a template for big outbreaks when an appropriate condition occurs. Therefore the inclusion of Dengue and Chikungunya in active surveillance program is proposed.
Barriers and drivers of voluntary blood donation in Katavi and Kilimanjaro regions: a comparative cross-sectional study of two regions with high and moderate blood collection rates in Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Florian, Francis F.
n Tanzania, blood donation does not meet the national requirement. This was an explanatory sequential mixed-method study design. The quantitative component involved a questionnaire survey to explore respondents’ KAPS on voluntary blood donation and a review of blood donation data from (NTBS). The qualitative component involved four FGDs with registered voluntary blood and healthcare providers from the NTBS. Out of two hundred and fifty-three (253) surveyed participants, 47% (n=120) never donated due to various reasons. Thirty-nine (39) respondents from Kilimanjaro (33%) and 33 from Katavi (27%) respectively did not donate because they were not sensitized and consulted to donate. One of the reasons was a lack of knowledge of the whereabouts of donation centers. Twenty-three (23) respondents from Kilimanjaro (19%) and twelve (12) from Katavi (10%) respectively cited the same reason. Four respondents (4% n=4) and two (1.6%) in Kilimanjaro and Katavi respectively did not donate because the donation center was very far from their residence. Other reasons were religious and cultural reasons and fear of losing sex libido. Fifty-three 53% of all respondents, (n=133) from both regions have ever donated in their lives. In Kilimanjaro, eighteen percent (18% n=24) of respondents donated because a close family member needed it while in Katavi eight percent (8% n=11) donated because of that reason. In Kilimanjaro, eleven percent (11% n=14) donated because their best friend needed it to survive; in Katavi, eleven percent (11% n=15) donated because of that reason. In Kilimanjaro, ten percent (10% n=13) donate because they were sensitized likewise in Katavi ten percent (10% n=13) donated because of that reason. In Kilimanjaro, only, eight percent (8% n=10) just volunteered while in Katavi 25% (n=33) just volunteered. The qualitative part of the study has shown that NBTS officials from Katavi had more creative strategies to improve voluntary blood donation. The prevalence of blood donation was less than satisfactory in the study areas because of misconceptions, poor knowledge, and unfavorable attitude toward blood donation. Utilizing media such as radios and televisions may improve the reach of educational programs, advocacy, and sensitization and encourage more people to donate blood. Blood Transfusion, blood donation, Knowledge, Attitude, Practice, voluntary blood donation, Kilimanjaro, Katavi, Tanzania.
Assessing Antibiotic-Resistance Patterns and Clinical outcomes among People-Living with Hiv/Aids with Features of Sepsis, in Northern Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Tsere, Bonphace
Mortality in people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV) remains substantial in Sub-Saharan Africa. Despite sepsis being the major cause of mortality in PLHIV, its optimal management remains questionable due to poorly characterized etiological agents as well as effective antimicrobials. This study aimed to assess etiological agents in PLHIV with sepsis, antibiotic susceptibility and mortality determinants. A prospective cohort design was conducted at three referral hospitals in Kilimanjaro region from May-December 2021. Patients with sepsis were screened for Tuberculosis (TB) using urine lateral flow–lipoarabinomannan (LF‑LAM) and sputum Xpert®-Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB)/rifampicin (RIF) assays. Microbiological diagnostic tests as well as general clinical laboratory tests were also done. Anti‑TB and broad-spectrum antibiotics were initiated accordingly. Patients were followed-up for 28 days. Variables were compared using an independent Chi-Square/t-tests. 98 patients were enrolled with a mean age of 44 (SD 12.9) years old with 59 (60.2%) being females. The TB was detected in 36 (36.7%) patients, with LF-LAM detecting 12 cases missed by XpertMTB/RIF. Isolated pathogens considered also as the cause of sepsis in patients with TB and those without TB included Staphylococcus aureus (4(11.1%) vs 6(9.7%)), Streptococcus pneumonia (3(8.3%) vs 2(3.2%)), Cryptococcal Spp. (3(8.3%) vs 2(3.2%)), respectively. Abnormal CBC, CRP, INR was in 31 (31.6%), 49(50%) and 40 (40.8%), respectively. The S. aureus isolates demonstrated 90% resistance against cotrimoxazole and low rate (10%) against gentamicin. Mortality was (9.2%) and was associated with malnutrition (p=0.000), high MEWS scores (p=0.000), Karnofsky score<50% (p= 0.028) and higher INR values (p=0.025). Multiple pathogens contributed to sepsis in PLHIV that necessitate frequent use of antibiotics and leading to high antibiotic-resistance among bacterial isolates. Also, malnutrition and prolonged INR were considered a risk factor for mortality.
The mtego® trap: a potential tool for monitoring and control of malaria and arbovirus vectors
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Suleiman, Masudi
Odour-baited traps are valuable for vector surveillance and control; however, they often exhibit varying recapture rates among mosquito species due to the limited range of host cues they provide. Therefore, it is crucial to develop more effective traps capable of capturing a variety of mosquito species. One potential alternative is the MTego trap, which incorporates thermal stimuli as additional cues. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of the MTego trap for sampling different mosquito species in a semi-field system. To conduct the experiments, fully balanced Latin square design experiments were conducted in semi-field chambers using laboratory-reared female Anopheles gambiae, Anopheles funestus, Anopheles arabiensis, Culex quinquefasciatus, and Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. Fifty mosquitoes of each species were released in each chamber for 16 days. The evaluated traps included the MTego trap baited with PM6 (MT-PM6), the MTego trap baited with BG-Lure (MT-BGL), and the BGP trap baited with BG-Lure (BGP-BGL). In addition, the performance of the traps was compared to the human landing catch (HLC). The MTego traps (MT-PM6 and MT-BGL) captured a similar proportion of Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles funestus, and Aedes aegypti as the BGP-BGL. However, the traps did not match the performance of HLC against all mosquito species. The study underscores the promising application of the MTego trap as a monitoring and control tool for malaria and arbovirus vectors. Keywords: MTego, BGP, Human landing catch, Trap, Odour-baited trap, Mosquito, Anopheles, Culex, Aedes
Assessment of physical chemical parameters of cashew apples from selected cashew varieties grown in Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2017-12) Msoka, Regina
Cashew apple fruits are deserted by majority of cashew nuts producers despite of being rich in useful nutrients namely vitamins, minerals and sugar. This study was carried out to determine the physico-chemical parameters of five cashew apple varieties from Mtwara and Lindi regions in south-eastern part and Coast region in eastern part of Tanzania. Cashew apple varieties named Brazilian dwarf (B.D), Anacardium Ceylon 4 (AC4), Anacardium Ceylon 10 (AC10), Anacardium Zanzibar 2 (AZA2) and Anacardium Zanzibar 17 (AZA17) were selected and analysed for vitamin C, carotenoids, total sugar, total phenolic content (TPC), minerals, pH, total soluble solids (TSS) and total titratable acidity (TTA) using standard methods and procedures. Significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in vitamin C, total sugar, TPC, TSS and TTA between the five varieties and sites with the content ranging from; vitamin C (253.09 - 348.54 mg/100 ml), total sugar (88.7 – 219.4 g/L), TPC (1066.55 – 2886.67 mg/L GAE), TSS (14.94 - 20.36 °Brix) and TTA (0.18 - 0.72%). Other parameters, pH and carotenoids differed significantly between varieties (p < 0.001) but there was no significant difference observed between sites. Minerals (Ca2+, K+ , Mg2+, Na+ , P3˗ , Fe2+ , Zn2+ and Cu2+) content differed significantly between varieties and sites (p < 0.05), except for calcium, magnesium and sodium. In Chambezi- Bagamoyo site, varieties differed significantly in all the parameters analysed except for vitamin C, pH, total soluble solids and all the minerals analysed except Ca2+ . These results have availed the potential nutritional value of locally available cashew apple fruits to food and nutrition security if well promoted for utilization.
Role of plant parasitic nematodes (pratylenchus goodeyi sher and allen) on fusarium wilt disease incidence and severity on banana
(NM-AIST, 2017-12) Shabani, Hassan
A study to examine the status of Fusarium wilt disease (FWD) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cubense (Foc) and plant parasitic nematode (PPN) (Pratylenchus goodeyi Sher and Allen) on banana was conducted in January to August 2017 at Meru District in Arusha and Rungwe District in Mbeya regions Tanzania. Forty eight farms, twelve villages in major banana growing areas were assessed for FWD incidence, severity and PPN damage using standard protocols. A pot culture experiment was also conducted to study the role of PPN on incidence and severity of FWD on banana in selected susceptible and resistant cultivars. The results indicated that highest (72%) FWD severity was at Sing’isi ward (Meru District) and the lowest (25.83%) was at Mpuguso ward (Rungwe District). The highest FWD incidence (11.48%) was at Nkoaranga ward followed by Akheri ward (8.95%) in Meru District and the lowest incidence (0.83%) was at Mpuguso ward in Rungwe District. The highest PPN damage (37.5%) was at Kimo ward in Rungwe District and the lowest (17.5%) was at Lufingo ward in Rungwe Disrtict. Such results indicated that FWD incidence and severity and PPN damage are a problem in the study area. The results for pot culture experiment revealed that, nematode inoculated 14 days prior to Foc and combined inoculation, showed higher FWD disease incidence and severity with a reduction in plant growth compared with untreated control. Such results suggest that PPN play a positive role in the incidence and severity of FWD on banana by acting as a predisposing factor for the fungal pathogen infestation causing injuries on the root surface as well as weakening the root tissues by causing root lesions.
Isolatation, authentication and evaluation of symbiotic effectiveness of elite indigenous rhizobia nodulating phaseolus vulgaris l. in Hai district, Northern Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2017-04) Namkeleja, Yusuph
Phaseolus vulgaris L. production in Sub Saharan Africa is affected by nitrogen deficiency in the soils. Rhizobium inoculants are considered as the best solution to curb the problem of soil nitrogen deficiency. However, accessibility of rhizobia inoculants in most African countries is a challenge, hence leads to most inoculants being imported from abroad. The estimation of the number of indigenous rhizobia nodulating P.vulgaris in the soils of Hai District, northern Tanzania as well as isolation, authentication and evaluation of the symbiotic effectiveness of those indigenous rhizobia strains was conducted. The most probable number infection method was used to estimate the population of indigenous rhizobia in the soils. Yeast Extract Manitol Agar containing Congo red was used to grow the isolated rhizobia strains. Koch’s postulates were employed in authentication, while the number of nodules per plant, chlorophyll content and other plant growth parameters was used to test effectiveness of the isolated strains. The Shapiro Wilk’s W test was used for testing normality of the data, one way ANOVA and Kruskal-Wallis Rank sum test was used for analysis of the data which are normally distributed and those which are not normally distributed respectively while Fisher’s Least Significant Difference were used as a post hoc significance test. The 61% of the soil in the study area had low rhizobia populations (<100 cells g-1of soil). Moreover, 18 bacterial strains were isolated and proved to be rhizobia.
Identification and characterization of viruses causing maize lethal necrotic disease (mlnd) in Northern Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2017-05) Hussein, Fatma
Maize Lethal Necrosis (MLN) is a viral disease in maize currently reported in eastern and central Africa countries including Kenya, Rwanda, Uganda, Ethiopia, Congo and Tanzania. The disease is caused by Maize Chlorotic Mottle Virus (MCMV) in synergism with Sugarcane Mosaic Virus (SCMV), Wheat Streak Mosaic Virus (WSMV) or Maize Dwarf Mosaic Virus (MDMV). The present study aimed at assessing farmers' awareness of the spread and loss due to MLND, identify and characterize the causative viruses in Kilimanjaro, Arusha and Manyara regions in Northern Tanzania. Past experiences of the occurrences and losses due to MLND were assessed by interviewing maize farmers (n = 137) in the regions between April and June, 2015. Disease prevalence was assessed after the awareness survey based on direct observation and counts of symptomatic maize plants in quadrants within individual farms (n = 41) across villages within different agro-ecological zones (AEZs). Viruses causing MLND were detected in maize leaves by Double Antibody Sandwich-Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay (DAS-ELISA), Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RP-PCR) and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) - Illumina MiSeq. Based on interviews, 99% of the farmers were aware of MLND symptoms. About 51.8% of farmers had experienced MLND in three subsequent years (2013 - 2015). The disease was said to have caused total crop failure in the majority of the farms (88%) in 2014. The prevalence of MLND differed across regions (P = 0.0012) and villages (P < 0.0001) but did not differ across AEZs (P > 0.05). The highest prevalence was recorded in Kilimanjaro with 22% symptomatic maize plants followed by Arusha (14%) and Manyara (10%). Of all the samples collected, 65% were positive for SCMV by DAS-ELISA test and 97% positive for MCMV by RT-PCR test with a co-infection of 64%. The highest incidence of both viruses; MCMV (100%) and SCMV (98%) was recorded in Lyamungu Kati-Hai district. NGS analysis showed that, there were no Potyviruses other than SCMV found in the samples collected in the regions. Based on phylogenetic tree, MCMV from this study are highly similar to themselves and to the existing eastern Africa isolates (99% nt identity). However, SCMV from this study have significant genome diversity within themselves. They were found to be similar to the highly virulent SCMV isolate from Hebei-China and from Kenya (87 - 99% nt identity). Therefore, similar management practices including production of resistant maize varieties can be applied in the regions affected by MLND.
Performance of selected cowpea (vigna unguiculata (l.) walp) varieties in different soil types in Singida District, Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2017-12) Kalonga, Joseph
A participatory research was conducted in Singida District central Tanzania under Singida Nutrition and Agro ecological Project (SNAP), during the 2016/2017 cropping season to evaluate the performance of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) varieties in different soil types. Four improved cowpea varieties; Tumaini, Fahari, Vuli-AR-I, Vuli-II and one local cowpea variety sourced from farmers in the study area were used. “Mother-baby trial” approach was used whereby a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) experiment with three (3) replications was set in four different soil types; sandy loam, sandy clay, sandy clay loam and loamy sand as a mother trial. Twenty eight (28) farmers from three villages (Iddisimba, Merya and Msikii) were selected for the “baby trials”. In the “mother trial” planting was done on 04th February 2017, with inter and intra-row spacing of 75 cm and 20 cm respectively for the bush type Tumaini, Fahari, and local varieties: while the determinate varieties Vuli-AR-I and Vuli-II were sown at spacing of 50 cm between rows and 20 cm within rows. The growth parameters were recorded in the 9 th week after seedling emergences and yield parameters at harvest. The results showed significance difference (P<0.05) on growth parameters and yield parameters. Generally, the improved varieties performed better than the local variety in both mother and baby trials although yields were less in baby trial compared to mother trial. Vuli AR-I performed better in all types of soil, Tumaini in sandy loam, Vuli-II and Vuli AR-I in sandy loam, sandy clay and sandy clay loam. In “baby trial” Tumaini in Iddisimba and Msikii village and Fahari variety in Merya village. The results therefore portray a differential performance of the varieties based on soil types and the study highlights the need for recommending these varieties based on the soil types.A participatory research was conducted in Singida District central Tanzania under Singida Nutrition and Agro ecological Project (SNAP), during the 2016/2017 cropping season to evaluate the performance of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) varieties in different soil types. Four improved cowpea varieties; Tumaini, Fahari, Vuli-AR-I, Vuli-II and one local cowpea variety sourced from farmers in the study area were used. “Mother-baby trial” approach was used whereby a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) experiment with three (3) replications was set in four different soil types; sandy loam, sandy clay, sandy clay loam and loamy sand as a mother trial. Twenty eight (28) farmers from three villages (Iddisimba, Merya and Msikii) were selected for the “baby trials”. In the “mother trial” planting was done on 04th February 2017, with inter and intra-row spacing of 75 cm and 20 cm respectively for the bush type Tumaini, Fahari, and local varieties: while the determinate varieties Vuli-AR-I and Vuli-II were sown at spacing of 50 cm between rows and 20 cm within rows. The growth parameters were recorded in the 9 th week after seedling emergences and yield parameters at harvest. The results showed significance difference (P<0.05) on growth parameters and yield parameters. Generally, the improved varieties performed better than the local variety in both mother and baby trials although yields were less in baby trial compared to mother trial. Vuli AR-I performed better in all types of soil, Tumaini in sandy loam, Vuli-II and Vuli AR-I in sandy loam, sandy clay and sandy clay loam. In “baby trial” Tumaini in Iddisimba and Msikii village and Fahari variety in Merya village. The results therefore portray a differential performance of the varieties based on soil types and the study highlights the need for recommending these varieties based on the soil types.
Reconstructing historical distribution of large mammals and their habitat to inform rewilding and restoration in central Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-07) Athumani, Paulo
In the anthropogenic landscapes where historically wildlife existed, there can be a potential for rewilding to reverse extinction. However, there is limited literature providing approaches to achieving successful rewilding. The current study aimed at providing empirical based methodological procedures for the successful rewilding of large mammals at the University of Dodoma (UDOM) and nearby degraded landscapes by assessing past and current vegetation and wild mammals’ occurrence and soil fertility. The past occurrence of mega-herbivores and their habitat was assessed using literature survey, past vegetation maps and key-informant interviews. The EBSCOhost-database and Google Scholar search-engine were used for literature searching. A field survey was conducted at UDOM, one of the remaining habitat patches in central areas of Dodoma, Tanzania to examine present plant diversity, soil nutrients and seedbank status. The results indicated that historically, the study area was Savanna woodland but later anthropogenic activities had resulted in Land-Use Land-Cover Changes (LULCC) that led to wild animals’ extirpation leaving remnants in the surrounding protected areas. While the key informant interviews verified the local loss of mega-herbivores, data collected at UDOM in 2022 indicated vegetation transformation to Dichrostachys cinerea dominated bushland. The study further revealed moderate soil fertility with relatively high seedbank. These results indicated that the study area occupied specular wild-mammal populations that were later extirpated leaving the area transformed into bushland. For rewilding programmes, among other things, the information generated from this study is essential and should be used to guide the long-term success of re-introduction at UDOM and its adjacent areas with/without modification.
Field evaluation of a novel one step malaria p.f and p.f/p.v rapid diagnostic tests in Pwani region, Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Mwangonela, Zena
Malaria rapid diagnostic tests (mRDTs) play an important role in the early detection of symptomatic and asymptomatic malaria in endemic areas. While several mRDTs are currently on the market, the availability of mRDTs with high sensitivity and specificity will add value in the fight against malaria. We evaluated the field performance for malarial diagnosis of a novel One Step Malaria (P.f/P.v) Tri-line and One Step Malaria (P.f) rapid test kits in Pwani, Tanzania. In a cross-sectional study conducted in Bagamoyo and Kibiti districts in Tanzania, symptomatic patients were tested using the SD BIOLINE, One Step Malaria (P.f/P.v) Tri-line and One Step Malaria (P.f) rapid test kits, microscope and qPCR. Samples tested positive by microscope, and verified by qPCR as the confirmatory method were analysed to determine sensitivity of the test kits. An additional qPCR assay was carried out to detect HRP-2 gene deletion on mRDT negative but microscope and qPCR positive samples. The sensitivity and specificity of One-step P.f/P.v Tri line mRDTs was 96.0% (CI: 93.5% to 97.7%) and 98.3% (CI: 96.8% to 99.2%) respectively. One step P.f mRDT had sensitivity and specificity of 95.2% (CI: 92.5% to 97.1%) and 97.9% (CI: 96.3% to 99.0%), respectively. Positive predictive value (PPV) was 97.6 % (CI:95.4% to 98.7%) and negative predictive value (NPV) was 96.2% (CI:95.5% to 98.3%) for the One-step P.f/P.v Tri line mRDTs., while One step P.f mRDT had positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 97.0% (CI:94.8% to 98.3% ) and 96.7(CI:94.9% to 97.9%), respectively. 9.8 % (CI: 7.84 -11.76) of all samples tested and reported to be malaria-negative by mRDT had HRP-2 gene deletion. One Step Malaria (P.f/P.v) Tri-line and One Step Malaria (P.f) rapid test kits have similar sensitivity and specificity as the standard mRDT that is currently in the market, demonstrating the potential to contribute in the fight against malaria in endemic areas. However, the identified malaria parasites population with HRP-2 gene deletion pose threat to the current mRDT usefulness in the field and warrants further investigations.
Occurrence of aflatoxins and associated risk factors in dairy value chain in selected districts of three agro-ecological zones in Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Kitigwa, Steven
Aflatoxins are natural compounds produced by specific type of fungi, which contaminate foods and animal feeds. This study assessed the occurrence of aflatoxins and associated risk factors in livestock feeds and raw cow milk through a survey of the smallholder dairy farmers (SDFs) and agrovet dealers from Mpwapwa, Serengeti, and Hai districts which represent three agroecological zones (Semi-arid, Arid and Northern Highlands) in Tanzania. The findings showed that the level aflatoxin awareness among SDFs (23.2%) and agrovet dealers (50%), respectively. The prevalence of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) in livestock feeds from agrovet dealers, and SDFs was 88.5 and 86.2%, with a concentration ranging from a limit of detection (LOD) to 22.99 and 32.9 µg/kg, respectively. About 15% and 22% of feed samples from agrovet dealers and SDFs respectively were detected with AFB1 at levels exceeding their respective regulatory limits. The prevalence of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in cow raw milk was 30.7%, and about 27.9% exceeding the European Union (EU) maximum regulatory limits of 0.05 µg/L and about 19.9% exceeding the Tanzania and East Africa maximum regulatory limits of 0.5 µg/L. The risk factors associated with AFB1 and AFM1 were cattle feeding systems: zero-grazing (Odds Ratio (OR) = 11.3) and mixed feeding (OR = 16.0); feed handling and storage practices: (OR=2.0). Others are agroecological zones: semi-arid zone (OR=15.2) and northern highland zone (OR=2.1) and level of education: primary (OR =16.0) and secondary (OR = 8.0) (p <0.05). This study has revealed low level of awareness on aflatoxin contamination in animal feeds and cow raw milk suggesting a potential health risk to consumers. It is therefore vital to raise awareness and strengthen other intervention for aflatoxin control in order to control aflatoxin contamination along the dairy value chain.
Sero-molecular epidemiological analysis of leptospirosis in smallholder dairy cattle in selected regions of Tanzania
(NM-AIST, 2023-08) Motto, Shabani
The smallholder dairy industry in Tanzania is a promising sector for household income generation despite challenges of zoonosis such as leptospirosis caused by Leptospira serovar Hardjo. A total of 2086 blood, serum and additional vaginal swab for female cattle were collected from smallholder dairy cattle for leptospirosis testing using three complementary tests An overall prevalence of 13%, 13.1% and 13.7% for Leptospira serovar Hardjo by ELISA test, RT-PCR for pathogenic Leptospira spp. and MAT respectively. Based on ELISA test, the highest prevalence shown in Iringa 30.2% (95% CI 25.1 - 35.7%) and Tanga 18.9% (95% CI 15.7 - 22.6). In multivariable analysis, factors that were a significant risk in smallholder dairy cattle are: animals over 5 years of age OR = 1.41 (95% CI 1.05 - 1.90); indigenous breed OR = 2.78 (95% CI 1.47 - 5.26); hiring or keeping a bull for breeding purposes OR = 1.91 (95% CI 1.34 - 2.71); distance between farms of more than 100 meters OR = 1.75 (95% CI 1.16 - 2.64); livestock kept extensively (OR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.36 - 3.91); farms without cat for rodent control (OR = 1.87, 95% CI 1.16 - 3.02); farmers with livestock training OR = 1.62 (95% CI 1.15 - 2.27); temperature (OR = 1.63, 95% CI 1.18 - 2.26), and the interaction of higher temperature and precipitation (OR = 1.5, 95%CI 1.12 - 2.01). This findings provide an opportunity for future study to include a broad serogroups panel for more identification of common serogroups circulating in cattle for vaccine target in Tanzanian cattle population.
Effect of retaliatory killing on African lion coalitions in Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem, Tanzania
(2023-08) Felix, Nancy
In landscapes where people and lions coexist, conflicts are common due to livestock predation and threats to human safety. Retaliatory lion killing by humans is often a consequence of such conflicts. In Tarangire-Manyara Ecosystem (TME) lion population are threatened by retaliatory killing, but little is known how retaliatory killing affects lion social structure, particularly male coalitions. Fourteen years dataset of lion monitoring was used to map the spatial-temporal dynamics of male coalition. Lion killing data was used to assess the effects of retaliatory lion killing on the male coalitions for ten prides. Interviews on two hundred and fourteen respondents was used to assess the attitudes and awareness of the community on effects of retaliatory killing to lions. Lion coalitions were found larger and lasted for a longer tenure period in low-risk areas of retaliatory killing, and far from active hunting blocks. Twelves lions were killed for livestock loss, while fifteen attempts of lion killing were prevented. Attitude towards lion existence and conservation was positive for young people (18-35 years) compared to older age class. People with primary or secondary level of education were more likely to have lions killed if they attack livestock compared to people with no formal education. Community attitude on retaliation effect varied widely, as people perceptions depends on benefits/losses they incurred. This study showed retaliatory killing negatively affects long-term lion coalition and population. Also, recommends implementing better education programs and participatory conservation activities to protect the declining lion populations.

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