Land use conflicts between pastoralists and farmers in Kilosa district, Tanzania

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Date

2006

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

Sokoine University of Agriculture

Abstract

Land use conflicts between pastoralists and crop farmers in Tanzania arc becoming prominent. Kilosa District in Morogoro Region has been experiencing these conflicts frequently. The survey was conducted in Mfilisi, Mbwade and Rudewa Batini villages in the district with the main objective of determining causes and solutions to land use conflicts between pastoralists and farmers. Ninety respondents, with equal number of pastoralists and farmers were interviewed using a questionnaire. PRA methods and key informants interviews were also used in gathering information from local officials and members of village conflict resolution committees. The major causes of the conflicts revealed include cattle grazing on crops in fields, unclear land demarcations, and land shortage, poor and low level of education, poor and/or lack of social and veterinary services in pastoral allocated areas, ethnicity and lack of respect between group members. Other causes were increase in livestock population, high and unbearable fines (penalties), lack of instant response to conflict and bad governance. The study also highlighted solutions of the conflicts between pastoralists and farmers. The major solutions at village level included effective use of the village conflict resolution committees, individual negotiations and proper allocation of village land. General solutions determined include establishment and respect of land demarcations, education, reduce number and improve livestock management, respect between group members, establishment and improvement of social and veterinary services in pastoral allocated areas. Also review of land policies and good governance were among major solutions. Conflicts between pastoralists and farmers can be resolved and managed in a democratic way. Involvement of main actors (farmers and pastoralists) can contribute significantly in maintaining peace and manage conflicts between pastoralists and farmers.

Description

Masters Dissertation

Keywords

Land use conflicts, Pastoralists, Farmers, Kilosa district, Tanzania

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