Climate change hazards like floods, drought, storms, landslides, and saltwater intrusion impact the livelihoods of smallholders (farmers, pastoralists, and fisher folks) in Tanzania. Weather and Climate Information Services (WCIS) increase the climate resilience of communities if stakeholders are involved in the production, packaging, and dissemination of the services. This baseline study aimed at establishing the baseline information on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) on climate change, available climate services and participation of gender in planning and decision-making while implementing livelihood activities.

The study was conducted in Tanzania, specifically targeting four villages: Mazizi, Dule, Msaraza and Mivumoni. These villages are situated in the District Councils of Chalinze, Lushoto and Pangani respectively. Additionally, a rapid assessment was conducted in the former villages of Kihangaiko, Mwangoi and Ushongo, originating from the same District Councils, along with the inclusion of Kidomole village from Bagamoyo District Council. Data were collected from 9 Key Informants, 4 group discussants and 32 community representatives. Data were, analysed, interpreted, and discussed to generate an informative report. The finding of this study supports the initiatives to align climate resilience, sustainable development, and poverty reduction in Tanzania.

Key findings:

1. The predominant livelihood activities (rain-fed agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing) identified in the study are diverse across the various villages, and extremely dependent on the climate.

2. Communities from the study areas are aware of climate-related phenomena ranging from uncertain irregular rainfall patterns, inconsistent rainfall distribution and disasters that directly affect livelihoods and food security.

3. Despite the knowledge of climate change threats, response practices are less effective to address the growing climate change challenges.

4. Climate services are regarded as the aid for decision making among small holder farmers, fishers, and pastoralists

Recommendations:

Recommendations for Ministry, Departments and Agencies:

1) Invest in the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) to enhance data collection and interpretation, improving forecast accuracy.

2) Establish mechanisms for integrating scientific and traditional weather forecasts, involving collaboration with local authorities and communities for downscaling

3) Utilize SMS and local radios for climate service dissemination, requiring cooperation with government, telecom companies, and local radio channels for effective outreach.

Recommendations for Local Government:

1) Support the preservation of traditional weather forecasting knowledge and facilitate transparent information flow between communities and district leadership.

2) Enhance the capacity of District and Ward Extension Officers to assist smallholder farmers in interpreting weather information and provide tailored advisory services.

Recommendations for Communities:

1) Take initiatives to preserve natural water sources essential for irrigation, collaborating with local authorities and development partners for sustainability.

2) Develop comprehensive, community-led adaptation plans to address climate change effects, involving participatory risk assessments and collaboration with civil society organizations.

Recommendations for Development Stakeholders such as NGOs:

1) Promote and facilitate the co-production, dissemination, and utilization of climate services within communities, alongside building community capacity for implementing climate advisory services.

2) Advocate and support the transformation of smallholder farming, livestock keeping, and fishing towards a business-led approach to enhance resilience and development.

This baseline report was developed in the scope of a project funded by Bread for the World