Evaluating effectiveness of sustainable livelihood development in rural communities along Mara river basin, Tanzania: what works, what doesn’t work, and why?
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Date
2025-02-25
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PLOS One
Abstract
The “Sustainable Livelihood Development of Rural Communities in Low Land Along
the Mara River Basin” project, implemented by Mogabiri Farm Extension Centre
(MFEC) in Tarime District, Tanzania, seeks to address persistent socio-economic
challenges in rural communities by promoting climate adaptation, income diversifi-
cation, and gender equality. Despite its ambitious objectives, the project operates
within a complex socio-economic and cultural environment that can undermine its
intended outcomes. Evaluating such projects requires a critical examination of both
their successes and the barriers that persist. Using a mixed-methods approach, this
evaluation combined quantitative data from 265 smallholder farmers (SHFs) and
qualitative insights from focus group discussions (FGDs), key informant interviews
(KIIs), and document reviews. In terms of “What Works?”, findings indicate that 75%
of SHFs adopted climate-resilient practices (p < 0.05), and 90% of communities imple-
mented gender-responsive action plans (p < 0.01), with 68% of households engaging
in income diversification activities such as poultry farming and beekeeping. However,
the question of “What Doesn’t Work?” revealed notable shortcomings, including
limited market access (p = 0.03) and cultural barriers restricting full gender partici-
pation (p = 0.04). The persistence of these challenges, despite project successes,
underscores the need for a deeper investigation into structural and contextual factors
that constrain the effectiveness of such initiatives. Understanding “Why?” these
barriers remain highlights the interplay of systemic market integration challenges
and cultural resistance to gender equity. While the project has made commendable
progress, addressing these underlying issues is crucial for achieving long-term
success. Strengthening market linkages, expanding gender-sensitive interventions,
and fostering sustainability through community ownership and local partnerships are
recommended to enhance scalability and impact.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Sustainable Livelihood Development, Rural Communities, Mara River Basin, Mogabiri Farm Extension Centre, Tarime District, Tanzania
Citation
Ngowi EE, Jesse AM (2026) Evaluating Effectiveness of Sustainable Livelihood Development in Rural Communities along Mara River Basin, Tanzania: What Works, What Doesn’t Work, and Why? PLoS One 21(6): e0351252. https://doi.org/10.1371/ journal.pone.0351252