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An analysis of climatic impacts and adaptation strategies in Tanzania

Mercy M. Ojoyi (School of Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu- Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa)
Jean-Marc Mwenge Kahinda (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Pretoria, South Africa)

International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management

ISSN: 1756-8692

Article publication date: 16 March 2015

471

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate climate change perceptions and adaptation strategies in the communities of Morogoro region of Tanzania. Climate change is a vital issue of global concern.

Design/methodology/approach

Rain fall data trends collected from different meteorological stations in the region were useful in assessment of climate variability and change trends from the historical perspective. In addition, quantitative interviews, surveys and focussed discussion groups were used to collect data capturing past and present trends in the catchment, and reasons provided by 199 respondents from a total of six villages. The data were collected with the aid of trained research assistants and trained graduates selected from each of the randomly select villages.

Findings

Significant differences in rainfall intensities have been recorded by use of feedback results from analysis of variance tests conducted. Major indicators of climate variability and change include: increased dry spells (39.7 per cent), drying of rivers (34.7 per cent), a reduction in water flows (14.6 per cent) and poor economy of the area (11.1 per cent).

Research limitations/implications

The scope of the study does not cover certain aspects such as the spatial and temporal changes in daily temperature which could have provided important and additional dimension. This study also did not take into consideration institutional arrangements required to successfully implement national adaptation programmes to climate change. Finally, it is important to remember that peoples’ perceptions determine the social mental picture of climate change.

Practical implications

The study suggests the need for leverage on resource use through education and good governance strategies to be employed by resource planners, leaders and policy makers.

Social implications

This study links scientific and participatory data as an approach for incorporating modern technologies and local knowledge into the design of useful practices and strategies as well as their successful implementation. Opinions from communities supported the urgent need for effective use and management of resources while laying emphasis on advancement of both indigenous and imported technologies.

Originality/value

An understanding of how the community views climate change is crucial in design of practices aimed at improving their well-being. In this regard, a study investigating smallholder farmers’ views regarding major drivers of change, assessing main factors leading to changes in climate experienced and identifying potential coping strategies against climate change, was conducted in East Africa, Tanzania between 2009 and 2010. This paper identifies potential resilient practices intended to minimize destruction and maximize opportunities likely to benefit Morogoro region.

Keywords

Acknowledgements

Financial support by the IDRC research programme, Wami/Ruvu Basin Office and the partial Partner Research Fund (UPaRF) of the UNESCO-IHE Institute for Water Education is appreciated. The statistical support and guidance provided by Mr Dawit Getnet Ayele and Mr Laila B. Lokosang of the School of Statistics and Actuarial Science, and Mr Dominick Menge from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture are also appreciated. The co-operation and support by farmers, leaders and experts across Wami/Ruvu catchment is highly acknowledged. The views expressed in this paper do not necessarily represent the views of the funding bodies which supported part of the fieldwork. Useful comments from two anonymous reviewers helped improve the original manuscript. The critical reading and correction of this manuscript by Prof P.J. Ashton is greatly appreciated.

Citation

Ojoyi, M.M. and Mwenge Kahinda, J.-M. (2015), "An analysis of climatic impacts and adaptation strategies in Tanzania", International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management, Vol. 7 No. 1, pp. 97-115. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJCCSM-12-2012-0072

Publisher

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Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2015, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

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