Linking Local and Scientific Knowledge in Climate Change Adaptation in Semi-Arid Area: A Case Study of Igunga District, Tanzania

Abstract

Climate change poses threats to semi-arid biomes worldwide that calls for global efforts to combat its effects through adaptation and mitigation practices. Recent studies recognized the importance of including Indigenous and Local Knowledge (ILK) and Scientific Knowledge (SN) in research on climate change impacts and adaptation. This paper explored indigenous knowledge on climate change impacts and adaptation and its relation to scientific knowledge in semi-arid areas, Igunga District, Tanzania. The study adopted a mixed methodology combining qualitative and quantitative approaches including household questionnaires survey, key informant interviews and field observations. The study found out evidence of pronounced climate change impacts in Igunga District from the scientific literature and local reports. The findings highlighted that, there is extensive overlap between information derived from local and scientific knowledge systems. And that about 96% of respondents in the study area uses their ILK in predicting weather and adaptation to climate change impacts. Majority of the respodents reported the associated climate change impacts with erratic rainfall, increase of temperature and frequent prolonged droughts. Overall, our results suggest that cross information of indigenous and scientific should be used to develop local community coping and adaptation strategies to climate change. The study concludes by suggesting inclusion of ILK in policy formulation for climate change adaptation and risk management.