Understanding local knowledge and information preferences for climate change adaptation in rangeland management: a case study of Shagayu Ward, Lushoto, Tanzania
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Date
2025
Authors
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Publisher
Rangeland Society of Tanzania (RST)
Abstract
This study aims to assess how local knowledge, information and
communication strategies contribute to supporting rangeland
management and enhancing community resilience to climate
change. Data were collected through structured questionnaires
administered to 140 respondents. Key findings reveal that 95% of
respondents were aware of climate change, a significantly higher
rate compared to previous surveys in Tanzania. However, gaps in
understanding the long-term impacts of climate change were
evident. Respondents attributed climate change mainly to
deforestation (57.7%), poor farming practices (40%), and
pollution (28.5%). The most commonly reported impacts included
low agricultural yields (36.3%), food insecurity (35.6%), and the
emergence of new pests and diseases (26.7%). Radio emerged as
the dominant source of climate change information (56.4%), with
a preference for radio (77.7%) and television (44.6%) for
information dissemination. Age, education, and marital status
showed significant associations with information access, while
farm size and house ownership had minimal effects. The study
highlights the importance of integrating local knowledge into
climate adaptation strategies, with community-driven strategies
like reforestation (49.6%), mass education (35.4%), and local
regulations identified as key rangeland management measures.
However, it also reveals gaps in aligning local practices with
global sustainability goals, particularly in integrating livestock
management with rangeland conservation. The study recommends
that stakeholders involved in rangeland management and climate change adaptation include improving access to reliable climate
information through preferred media platforms, enhancing
community education programs on climate impacts and
adaptation strategies, and promoting sustainable rangeland
management practices that integrate livestock keeping and
biodiversity conservation. Additionally, engaging local
communities in decision-making processes and supporting the
development of policies that address both climate change and
sustainable rangeland use are critical for fostering long-term
resilience.
Description
Healthy Rangelands for Sustainable Economic Development pp, 93-127
Keywords
Climate Change Adaptation, Rangeland Management, Local Knowledge, Community Resilience, Communication Strategies