Farmers-Pastoralists Perceptions on Climate Change in Mvomero District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study investigated the perceptions of farmers and pastoralists regarding climate change in Mvomero District, Tanzania. Data was collected using questionnaires, interview, Focus Group Discussions and documentary literature review. A total of 391 heads of households were surveyed, and 26 key informants were interviewed constituting four Village Chairpersons, four Village Executive Officers (VEOs), four Heads of Village Security Committees, four Village Agricultural and Livestock Officers (VALOs), four Ward Executive Officers (WEOs), the District Executive Director (DED), and the Officer Commanding District of Police (OCD). The study aimed to underscore local perceptions of climate change, identifying the impacts on agricultural practices, and evaluating adaptive strategies employed by the study communities. The findings revealed that both farmers and pastoralists perceive climate change as a significant threat to their livelihoods. Adaptation strategies implemented include altering planting dates, diversifying crops, improving water conservation techniques and integrating livestock with crop farming. Despite these efforts, several barriers to effective adaptation persist, including limited access to climate information, inadequate financial resources and insufficient support from local government and extension services. The study emphasizes the need for tailored interventions that enhance adaptive capacity and resilience. Policy recommendations include improving access to timely and accurate climate information, strengthening local institutions, and promoting community-based adaptation strategies.