Contribution of national service on agricultural production: a case of maize production by Mgambo JKT in Handeni district

National Service influences agricultural development in Tanzania but little attention has been given in this regard in the discussion of civil-military relations. This study examined the contribution of the National Service in agricultural production and used maize production by Mgambo National Service camp (Mgambo JKT) in Handeni District as the case study. Purposively, maize producing farmers near and far from Mgambo JKT were interviewed using a questionnaire in order to assess spillover effects of Mgambo JKT in the surrounding villages. The study revealed that Mgambo JKT has been increasing her capacity in maize seeds multiplication for hybrid varieties such as TMV-1 and TAN-250. Contribution of Mgambo JKT in overall maize production in Handeni District has increased from 0.2% in 2008 to 0.7% in 2011. On the other hand, spillover effects of Mgambo JKT were observed as an impact of this National Service in agricultural production of the surrounding rural areas. Farmers have imitated conventional practices of Mgambo JKT such as proper spacing, row planting and use of improved seeds. As such, mean maize productivity of farmers near the camp was higher than of those far from the camp. However, in order to enhance its contribution to the surrounding communities, the National Service should establish outreach programs. The study recommends further research on the nexus between agricultural development and the contribution of national service in this respect because the present study focused on one national service camp only.