OPTIMIZING THE EFFICIENCY OF SUBSIDY FERTILIZER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM; A CASE STUDY OF MBEYA, TANZANIA
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Date
2025-06-30
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MBITA, OSCAR DAVID
Abstract
Agriculture remains the backbone of Tanzania’s economy, employing over 65% of the
population and playing a vital role in food security and rural development. To enhance
agricultural productivity and ensure affordable access to essential inputs, the
Tanzanian government implemented a fertilizer subsidy program targeting
smallholder farmers. Despite its intentions, the current distribution system faces
critical challenges, including inefficiencies, fraud, delayed deliveries, and low user
satisfaction. The primary objective of this study was to optimize the efficiency of the
subsidy fertilizer distribution system. The study examines how blockchain technology
can address existing challenges by providing transparency, traceability, and enhanced
accountability. A mixed-methods approach involving stakeholder interviews and
structured questionnaires revealed weaknesses in the current system, underscoring the
need for innovation. In response, a blockchain-enabled framework was developed,
incorporating a layered e-voucher system built on a hybrid N-tier and microservices
architecture. The framework includes Key features such as smart contracts for
automated eligibility verification and a permissioned ledger to ensure tamper-proof
data integrity. Functional and heuristic testing confirmed the system’s usability,
scalability, and reliability. The proposed solution offers a robust and scalable model
for policymakers and practitioners to modernize fertilizer subsidy programs in
Tanzania, utilizing decentralized technologies.
Description
This Theses was Published by Osca Mbita in 2025