Application of indigenous agro-biodiversity knowledge for climate change adaptation and its effects on food security and cash income among local communities in Masasi and Nachingwea districts, Tanzania
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Date
2014
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Journal ISSN
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Publisher
CCIAM
Abstract
This study was carried out in Masasi and Nachingwea districts in Tanzania to provide empirical evidence of existing indigenous knowledge (IK) related to agro-biodiversity surrounding the local communities and how that knowledge contributes to adaptation to climate changes and their livelihoods. The study employed two research designs namely case study and cross sectional survey. Hence, a combination of tools including semi-structured questionnaires, Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews were used for data collection. The research findings showed that farmers possess a wide range of indigenous knowledge, which they use in the management of agro-biodiversity, adaptation to climatic changes and for improving their livelihoods. The indigenous knowledge identified include those on soil characteristics, soil fertility and infertility, cropping systems, seed storage and use of wild food products. It was recommended that such indigenous knowledge be harnessed and used in other similar localities to foster ability of farmers to adapt to climate changes and improve livelihoods of local communities
Description
CCIAM Conference Proceeding paper
Keywords
Indigenous knowledge, agro-biodiversity, climate change, livelihoods