Assessing the Role of Training in Improving Pasture Management Among Smallholder Dairy Farmers in Muheza District, Tanzania

In Tanzania, smallholder dairy farmers mainly rely on natural pastures as the primary feed source for their livestock; however, pasture productivity and forage availability remain major challenges, particularly during the dry season. This study aimed to assess the role of training in enhancing pasture management among smallholder dairy farmers in Muheza District. Specifically, it evaluated the adoption of improved pasture management and forage conservation practices by trained versus untrained farmers. A cross-sectional research design was used, and data were collected from 210 dairy farmers (105 trained and 105 untrained) selected through stratified random sampling. A structured questionnaire was administered, and qualitative information was also gathered from key informants. Quantitative data were analyzed using STATA version 17. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests were used to examine group differences and associations between categorical variables, while multivariate probit model was employed to identify socio-economic factors influencing adoption of improved practices. Findings revealed that trained farmers were more likely to implement improved pasture management strategies such as rotational grazing, pasture rest and recovery periods, and efficient water use. They also adopted superior forage conservation techniques, including drying, baling, and the use of additives. In contrast, untrained farmers primarily relied on traditional and less efficient practices. The multivariate analysis showed that factors such as age, education level, household income, farm size, and access to institutional support significantly influence the adoption levels. The study concludes that training interventions, when combined with supportive socio-economic and institutional frameworks, play a key role in enhancing the adoption of improved pasture and forage conservation practices. Scaling up such training efforts is recommended to boost livestock productivity and sustainability among smallholder dairy farmers in Tanzania.