Juncao Technology

Capacity building initiative for improved agri-food systems through Juncao technology in Tanzania

JUNCAO-TZ

 Background and objective

Tanzania faces challenges related to food and nutrition security, poverty, and the degradation of its agri-food system. The inefficient implementation of sustainable agriculture practices and lack of knowledge among end-users contribute to these issues. To address these challenges, Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in Tanzania is working on a project called ‘JUNCAO-TZ’, supported by UNDESA and FAFU. The project aims to build the capacity of small-scale farmers in ecological methods, specifically focusing on JUNCAO technology, for improved food security, livelihoods, and environmental performance. The objectives include assessing local practices, validating JUNCAO technologies for mushroom production, livestock fodder production, and ecosystem restoration, as well as training farmers in these methods. The project aims to enhance smallholder productivity, profitability, and nutritional benefits while reducing negative environmental impacts. By addressing pasture development, soil fertility management, and climate-smart agriculture, the project aligns with the strategic priorities of the Tanzania Agricultural Sector Development Programme Phase Two (ASDP II). SUA, as a leading agricultural university in Africa, is committed to advancing knowledge and skills in agriculture and related sciences through teaching, research, and consultancy. The overall goal of the JUNCAO-TZ project is to improve food and nutrition security, livelihoods, and environmental sustainability in Tanzania by empowering small-scale farmers with ecological methods, particularly JUNCAO technology.

Project activities

  • Assessing existing local practices for ecological restoration, mushroom, and livestock fodder production.
  • Surveying existing ex-situ and in-situ mushroom and livestock production technologies, as well as consumption patterns.
  • Surveying local practices for the restoration of degraded ecosystems.
  • Validating JUNCAO technologies for mushroom production, livestock fodder production, and restoration of degraded ecosystems.
  • Establishing experimental plots for JUNCAO technologies, specifically for mushroom and JUNCAO grass production.
  • Analyzing the nutritional value of mushrooms and JUNCAO grass.
  • Assessing the ecological restoration potential of JUNCAO grass by analyzing soil physical, chemical, and biological properties.
  • Analyzing the cost-benefit of JUNCAO technologies for mushroom and livestock fodder production.
  • Training small-scale farmers on best practices of JUNCAO technologies for improved mushroom and livestock fodder production, as well as ecological restoration.
  • Conducting training on JUNCAO technologies through demonstration plots for small-scale farmers and other value chain actors (extension officers, community development officers, etc.).
  • Training of Trainers (ToT) from livestock and agricultural training institutes, as well as lead farmers.
  • Training undergraduate and postgraduate students on JUNCAO technologies.
  • Disseminating research findings through the preparation of manuscripts.
  • Showcasing locally relevant JUNCAO technologies at agricultural exhibitions and trade fairs.
  • Presenting JUNCAO technologies at scientific conferences.

These activities aim to improve knowledge and skills in sustainable agriculture practices, enhance food and nutrition security, and promote ecological restoration in Tanzania.

 

Project Time: 2023-2024

Project Funding: UNITED NATIONS, Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA).

Team Members

Prof. Yasinta Charles Muzanila (Principal Investigator)

Dr. Elly Josephat Ligate  (Co-Principal Investigator)

Dr. Beda Mwang’onde  (Project Team member)

Dr. Offoro Kimambo (Project Team member)

Dr. Anthony Funga (Project Team member)