Farmers’ Practices and Perceptions of Ruminant Urine Use as an Organic Fertilizer for Sunflower Production in Mixed Crop Livestock Systems

Abstract

Sustainable nutrient management in smallholder farming systems requires low-cost, locally available fertilizers to enhance crop productivity while maintaining ecological balance. Sunflower production in mixed livestock–crop systems in Tanzania faces challenges related to high input costs and limited awareness of organic alternatives. This study assessed farmers’ practices and perceptions regarding the use of ruminant urine as a fertilizer for sunflower. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in September to November 2025 across four villages in Morogoro, involving 311 purposively selected farmers engaged in organic sunflower cultivation. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, Cramer’s V, and binary logistic regression to identify determinants of adoption. Qualitative data from focus group discussions and key informant interviews were analyzed thematically to interpret local knowledge and socio-cultural influences. Results indicated that adoption of ruminant urine varied widely, with Mikese exhibiting the highest usage (70.8%), moderate uptake in Vianzi (25.0%) and Kimambila (25.8%), and minimal use in Mafuru (1.1%). Regression analysis identified village of residence, awareness of urine as fertilizer, and livestock ownership—particularly goats—as significant predictors of adoption. Farmers applied urine primarily to sunflower and maize, with collection and storage constrained by livestock management and infrastructure. FGDs and KIIs revealed that experiential knowledge, peer exchange, and demonstration plots influenced acceptance, while limited formal training restricted wider adoption. These findings suggest potential for integrating ruminant urine into nutrient management strategies, especially in villages with zero- or semi-zero-grazing systems, and strengthen resilience in mixed crop–livestock systems.