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The study examines ways of linking research, extension and farmers through a two-way exchange of both indigenous technical knowledge (ITK) and scientific knowledge in order to increase food crop production in Tanzania. Specifically the studied sought to establish: the amount of ITK regarding maize, wheat, beans and round potatoes in 15 villages; the extent to which indigenous and conventional scientific knowledge are employed by farmers; the relationship between the use by farmers of ITK and conventional scientific knowledge, and socioeconomic parameters; and the utilization of findings from the study in drawing up policy implications with regard to the planning of the research and extension efforts in Tanzania for improved agricultural production. The study area comprised three major food producing districts in the southern Highlands of Tanzania, namely, Njombe, Mbeya, and Mbinga. A total of 1020 farmers was sampled through semi-structured interviews during two research visits to the areas, first in June 1989 and then between November 1989 and March 1990. The results of the study identify a great deal of ITK within the communities covered and highlight the need for extension agents to utilize this resource. |
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