Land degradation and agriculture productivity in Dodoma: A case of zuzu and nghonghonha villages.

ABSTRACT

This study was undertaken to examine the impacts of land degradation on agriculture in Dodoma. The study covered the villages of Zuzu and Nghonghonha. The first task was to examine the spread of land degradation and its effects on agriculture productivity. Secondly, was to determine the contribution of human activities in influencing the rapid growth of land degradation in Zuzu and Nghonghonha villages. The final task was to determine the efforts and strategies by the government to combat the problem of land degradation. Data was collected using interviews, observation, questionnaires and secondary data reviews. Questionnaires and interview guide were used to collect data from 116 peasants and 4 village officials. Data collected were analysed using both qualitative and quantitative approaches, qualitative approaches included observation, interview and documents reading; while quantitative approaches included statistical charts (bar graphs and pie charts). The findings revealed that land degradation has contributed to the lowering of agricultural productivity and thus food production has also declined.. Also the study revealed that the government has not put much efforts to combat the problem of land degradation as there are few extension officers. The study has a number of recommendation to the government, firstly, villages should be assigned qualified extension officials. Secondly, the government should actively provide environmental conservation education especially on land conservation practices. And thirdly, Farmers should be encouraged to grow drought resistant crops such as millet and cassava in order to address the problem of food shortages.