Introduction
This baseline study, titled "Aligning Climate Resilience, Sustainable Development, and Poverty Reduction," assesses climate vulnerabilities and adaptive capacities in Tanzanian villages (Mazizi, Dule, Msaraza, Mivumoni, and others in Chalinze, Lushoto, Pangani, and Bagamoyo districts). Funded by Bread for the World, it focuses on aligning climate resilience with poverty reduction by evaluating Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) related to climate change, gender participation in decision-making, and access to Weather and Climate Information Services.
Research Design
- Scope: Targeted 8 villages across 4 districts, prioritizing climate-sensitive sectors.
- Methods: Mixed-methods approach with 9 key informant interviews, 4 focus group discussions, and 32 community surveys.
- Data Analysis: Qualitative and quantitative analysis of climate knowledge, service accessibility, and gender roles.
- Indicators: Measured KAP on climate change, weather and climate services usage, and gender inclusion in adaptation planning.
Key findings:
- 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.
- 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.
- Despite the knowledge of climate change threats, response practices are less effective to address the growing climate change challenges.
- Climate services are regarded as the aid for decision making among small holder farmers, fishers, and pastoralists
Recommendations
Recommendations for Ministry, Departments and Agencies:
- Invest in the Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) to enhance data collection and interpretation, improving forecast accuracy.
- Establish mechanisms for integrating scientific and traditional weather forecasts, involving collaboration with local authorities and communities for downscaling
- 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:
- Support the preservation of traditional weather forecasting knowledge and facilitate transparent information flow between communities and district leadership.
- 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:
- Take initiatives to preserve natural water sources essential for irrigation, collaborating with local authorities and development partners for sustainability.
- 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:
- Promote and facilitate the co-production, dissemination, and utilization of climate services within communities, alongside building community capacity for implementing climate advisory services.
- Advocate and support the transformation of smallholder farming, livestock keeping, and fishing towards a business-led approach to enhance resilience and development.