Dissertation (MA Development Studies)
The intention o this study was to investigate the contributions of Action for Development Programs (ADP) towards improvement of maize production in Tanzania. The study started by examining factors determining maize production in Mbozi before establishment of ADP. The method used in this study was the case study. A sample size of 87 respondents was obtained from 640 members who were beneficiary of ADP and divided into two categories. The first category was ADP staff members and the second category was the farmers. Data were collected through questionnaire, interview, observation and focus group discussion. While investigating the level of satisfactions on the contributions of ADP towards the improvements of maize production activities, the results showed that ADP contributed much in an improvement of maize production in Mbozi District. The higher level of satisfaction with respect to services rendered by ADP also indicated improvements in an adoption of improved farming practices. However, the study has found out that there were some problems facing ADP in its sustainability. These were financial constrains, inadequate modern agricultural tools, poor control of pests and diseases existence, poor infrastructure in rural areas and unpredictable climatic change. In addition, rural farmers maize producers needed special consideration so as to improve their qualities and the quantity of production.