The Socio-Economic Impact of the Introduction of Sisal Production in Same District, Tanzania: 1890 – 1967.

Kihoko, Karigo S. (2025) The Socio-Economic Impact of the Introduction of Sisal Production in Same District, Tanzania: 1890 – 1967. Masters thesis, The Open University of Tanzania.

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Abstract

This study has examined the Socio-Economic Impact of the Introduction of Sisal Production in Same District, Kilimanjaro Region, between 1890 and 1967. First of all, the study sought to underpin the socio-economic impact of pre- colonial economy in Same District. Thereafter, it analysed the methods used to introduce colonial economy in general and sisal production in particular in Same District from 1890. Finally, the study explored the socio - economic impact of the introduction of colonial economy and sisal production in Same District between 1890 and 1967. Relevant information and data were collected from archival research, oral interviews as well as secondary sources. Using the principles of qualitative research, collected information and data were analyzed thematically in accordance with the research objectives. Findings show that before the establishment of the colonial economy and introduction of sisal plantations in Same District, the local people were engaged in a subsistence economy based on equal exchange. The establishment of the colonial economy through land alienation without compensation; taxation without representation; and use of forced and migrant labour in cash crop production without value addition, significantly undermined the Socio–Economic Status (SES) of the pre–colonial society in Same District and the entire country.In the case of sisal, the government has made deliberate efforts after independence to transform the sisal industry by adding value to the crop. During the colonial period, sisal was exploited mostly for its fibre (white gold). However, sisal fibre, constitutes only a minute fraction (about 2%) of the total value of the “green gold”. Besides other valuable products, biogas, electricity and animal feeds are presently generated from sisal waste. Keywords: Socio - Economic, Socio-Economic Impact, Sisal Production.

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