Organic Vegetable Growing in Mkuranga District and Farmers knowledge on its Contribution to Health and Environment

Abstract

Organic agriculture has great positive impacts to the environment. Likewise, human health has close connection with the state of the environment. Organic agriculture produces food that has less agricultural chemical residues and hence poses less threat to human health. Industrial revolution brought about environmental pollution which threatened human health and the environment. Organic farming which uses less external inputs is thought  to be able to protect human health and his/her environment, however very small percent of the total cultivated land is under organic production to date. This paper presents the findings from the research carried out in Sotele and Kerekese villages, Mkuranga District in Coast Region, Tanzania, about the organic vegetable growing. Specifically, the paper explains about the farmers knowledge about the role of organic farming on human health and environment. An exploratory research design is among the methodology used in the study. Face to face interview, personal observation and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were the main data collection techniques adopted. A non-probability sampling technique (purposive) was used to obtain organic vegetable crops production groups namely, Jipe moyo, Mshikamano, Umoja ni nguvu and Ushirikiano women group. It was followed by simple random sampling technique whereby a sample of 32 farmers was selected for focus group discussion and 41 for interview. Two key informants from Mikocheni Agriculture Research Institute (MARI), District agricultural officer, ward executive officer and village leaders were also purposely selected for interview based on the type of farming system and the location of the activity. Results showed that organic farming has great role on environment and health to both user’s and producers. These included, improvement of soil fertility, protection of useful micro-organisms and production of food free from chemical residue. Furthermore,   farmers in Mkuranga district have knowledge about the advantages of organic farming products on health and environment, although, it was noted that they are limited to successful engage themselves in organic production due to the lack of organic farming inputs including, organic manure, pesticides and insecticides which could be used to improve soil nutrients and fight against pests and diseases. It is recommended in this paper that, for sustainable agricultural activities which are environmental friendly within Sotele and Kerekese villages as well as the country at large, the ministry concern should insist on organic farming knowledge to the farmers,  improve agricultural extension service, infrastructure and technology.