Browsing by Author "Matimbwa , Hadija"

Now showing 1 - 2 of 2
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Assessment of Current Post-Harvest Handling Techniques for Mango and Avocado in Mbeya Region, Tanzania
    (Elsevier, 2025-07-31) Mng’ong’o , Marco E.; Komanya, Absalom.; Maro, Lilian.; Mshora , Abubakar M.; Matimbwa , Hadija
    Mango (Mangifera indica) and avocado (Persea americana) are valuable fruits in Tanzania, known for their nutritional and economic importance. However, their perishability leads to significant post-harvest losses, especially for smallholder farmers in Mbeya. The limited knowledge about post-harvest handling identifies a research gap. This study assessed practices and challenges among mango and avocado farmers to improve handling techniques. A survey of 150 smallholder farmers in Kyela and Rungwe districts (August–September 2024) examined harvesting, storage, transportation, and post-harvest challenges. Data analysis revealed that 64 % of farmers use traditional harvesting methods that lead to mechanical damage. While 68.8 % manually hand-harvest, others rely on tree shaking (8.3 %) and sticks or stones (18.8 %), further increasing fruit damage. Storage at ambient temperature (46 %) fails to extend shelf-life, causing rapid quality deterioration. Trans- portation by motorcycle (44 %) and head carrying (34 %) exposes fruits to damage. Key challenges included fruit drop (36 %), rotting before harvest (28 %), and insect infestation (24 %). Only 23.4 % of farmers had reliable market access, highlighting a major constraint. Education level influenced challenges, with lower-educated farmers facing more rotting and pest issues. Findings indicate current post-harvest practices are inadequate, leading to major losses. Simple, cost-effective technologies like edible coatings and training on improved har- vesting, storage, and transportation are necessary. Investment in affordable cold storage and better transport infrastructure is crucial. This study provides actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders to enhance mango and avocado value chains in Tanzania.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Unveiling the Potential of Artificial Intelligence in Human Resource Management: A Systematic Review of Adoption Strategies, Challenges, and Future Directions.
    (Cureus Journal of Business and Economics, 2025-04-23) Mohamed , Halima H.; Matimbwa , Hadija; Banzi , Jamal
    Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in human resource management (HRM), as it improves efficiency, decision-making processes, and employee experience while offering an unprecedented opportunity to create value for consumers, employees, and organizations. Despite its transformative potential, recent studies reveal a disconnect between expectations and the benefits of implementing AI. This systematic review examines the current state of AI in HRM, identifying key adoption strategies, challenges, and organizational prerequisites for successful integration. It provides a comprehensive, objective understanding of the organizational resources necessary to enhance AI capabilities in HRM, enabling organizations to fully benefit from them. Using CiteSpace for bibliometric analysis, the study traces the evolution of AI in HRM from algorithmic advancements to practical applications. Our findings highlight that successful AI adoption requires more than just technological investment; it demands leadership commitment, workforce upskilling, cultural adaptability, and cross-functional collaboration. We also discuss theoretical contributions such as refining AI-HRM frameworks and practical implications, including strategies for mitigating implementation risks. Finally, this study provides actionable insights for HR professionals, policymakers, and researchers seeking to harness AI’s full potential while addressing adoption barriers. By bridging the gap between expectations and reality, our work lays the foundation for future research on AI-driven HRM innovation