Intensification of maize-legume based systems in the semi-arid areas of Tanzania (Kongwa and Kiteto districts) to increase farm productivity and improves farming natural resource base

This proposal is a follow up of activities initially conducted in 2011 - 2012 as part of the Africa RISING activities in Tanzania targeting the districts of Kon gwa and Kiteto. Based on lessons learnt , we now propose wider and intensified activities that will harness on - farm ad o ptive and developmental research collaboration between researchers from the CGIAR Centers and the NARS . This effort will enhance access to , as well as use of technologies by smallholder farmers to improve their productivity and livelihoods. We seek to achieve two outcomes that speak to the program research and development outcomes. Our specific action project outcomes are ( a ) Increased productivity of maize and legume - based cropping systems with yield increases of up to 100% and 80% for maize and pigeon pea respectively ameliorate food security and nu trition security and poverty; ( b ) Improved land productivity (greater returns to investments, labour productivity and per unit outputs) and ecos ystem management lead to sustainable resilient and productive farming and crop ping systems in project action areas . Both Project outcomes will contribute to the P rogramme objective s 1, 2 and 3 on evaluation and promotion of demand - driven options for sustai nable intensification , s caling - up delivery and maintaining or improving ecosystem stability . Actions are clustered into seven work packages for coherence and better delivery. The 7 work packages include: (i) On - farm evaluation of improved legume and cereals varieties for promotional activities, (ii) Integrated soil fertility management in action areas, (iii) Land management (soil and water conservation), (iv) Post harvest processing, utilization and nutrition, (v) Crop livestock and poultry integratio n and productivity enhancement, (ix) Characterization of Africa RISING sites and (vii) Lesson learning, networking and coordination. The activities will build on efforts by NAFAKA

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