Adaptive capacity to climate change of pastoralists in Kilosa District, Tanzania
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Date
2020
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Publisher
Tanzania Journal of Forestry and Nature Conservation
Abstract
A study was conducted to investigate the
adaptive capacity of pastoralists in Kilosa
district to climate change. Specifically, the
study assessed the trend and impact of
climate change in the area, adaptive
elements of pastoral communities against
climate change and determined the
contribution of state agencies in enhancing
pastoral system’s resilience to climate
variability in the district. Data were
collected using household questionnaire
survey, focus group discussions, key
informant interviews and field observation.
The data was analysed using Excel and
SPSS computer software programs. Results
revealed that in the period 1972-1974, there
was a significant shift of rainfall in the study
area from bi-modal to unimodal. This trend
has been consistent with climate change
scenarios in recent decades of lower rainfall
and more severe droughts. Most pastoralists
were aware of climate change impacts
namely water scarcity, increase of livestock
diseases and increased distance to grazing
lands. The capacity of pastoralists to adapt
to climate change stress depends largely on
the number of livestock. Pastoralists owning
more livestock are more likely to adapt to
climate change. This study recommends that
the community should diversify to other
sustainable economic activities rather than
relying on livestock only while climatic
conditions are not favourable for this
economic activity. The Government should
put more effort on supporting pastoralists in
their adaptive strategies as well as make
regular review of policies to favour
adaptation measures.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Pastoralists, climate change, adaptive capacity, Kilosa