Masters Dissertations

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Abundance and diversity of small Mammals in disturbed and undisturbed forests in the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2007) Kalumanga, Elikana
Small mammals are a poorly known fauna in the Eastern Are Mountains. In order to contribute to the knowledge of this faunal group, small mammals were trapped in the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania ta assess their abundance and diversity in the disturbed and undisturbed forests. The disturbed habitat included the cultivated field (shamba) and the fallow fields while the undisturbed habitat included the intact natural forest (Forest A) and a slightly disturbed forest (forest B). In each habitat, 3 nested plots were set in order to study their habitat characteristics. Small mammals were caught using Sherman live traps, snap traps and pitfall traps in both dry and wet seasons. A total of 449 individuals, spread over 14 species of rodents and crocidure shrews (identified to the genus level only) were trapped. The intact forest (A) had the highest diversity of small mammal; the cultivated field recorded the lowest diversity (F3,14= 0.8049; p = 0.4983). The fallow land recorded the highest trap success (50), followed by forest A (45.5) and forest B (42). The least trap success was recorded in the shamba (27.4) (H0.05,8,12,11,9 = 24.84,X20.05,3, = 7.815,P= 0.001). All the paired plots scored over 50% similarity indices, suggesting that, within a plot, species composition in all seasons did not vary significantly. Only generalist species were found in both disturbed and undisturbed forests. The forest-specialists (e.g. Beamys hindel) were strictly found in the forests. Canopy avoiding species (e.g. Lophuromys flavopunctatus) were mostly found in the disturbed forests. Therefore, the disturbed forests cannot sustainably support diverse small mammal species as it is in the natural forests.
Adaptation strategies to climate change induced impacts on mangrove ecosystem: a case of Rufiji District, Pwani Region, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Luhuro, Julius Kyasi
This study aimed at identifying the adaptation strategies to climate change induced impacts on mangrove ecosystem in Rufiji district so as to reduce mangroves ecological vulnerability; and enhance resilience and adaptive capacity for both coastal communities and mangrove ecosystem against impacts of climate change in Rufiji District. The study used descriptive design, both qualitative and quantitative techniques for data collection including questionnaire, interviews, field observation and focus group discussion. A sample size range of 5-10% was used to calculate a sample of the total households in the study area. Also the study involved key informants and village executive officers for data collection. Results from communities perceptions (90.6%) indicated that there are changes in rainfall (both dry and wet years); while almost 89.6% of respondents agreed on the declining of rainfall in the study area. Also rainfall data from Rufiji meteorological station showed that there was no significant change in rainfall availability. The study revealed that the social-economic activities of the people particularly farming were impacted by climate change induced impacts. It was observed that majority of famers in the lower delta migrated from the upland areas, which were the most affected by climate extremes notably drought towards the delta with conditionally favor paddy cultivation. The study noted that majority of the farmers migrated towards the delta along the mangrove concentrated areas due to the fact that cultivating inside the mangroves areas is less costly as it involves only two phases of paddy cultivation (e.g. Planting and Harvesting) because cultivating in side mangrove forest does not need weeding. The study revealed that climate extremes including drought, floods, change of rain season, rise in sea water and increased temperature clearly affected human population in Rufiji district and that called for livelihood diversification such as agriculture intensification in mangrove protected areas, promotion of community mangrove forests and micro-economic activities as adaptation and coping strategies that ensure sustainable use of land and natural resources. The study recommends the following: Corrective adaptation should be the central focus for effective and sustainable adaptation strategies to climate change and variability. It also recommends intervention of government and private sectors through establishment of projects and programs that promote environment and livelihood diversification of non-governmental activities in the mangrove protected areas. Collaborative development plans, projects, programmes and policies by stakeholders (Communities, NGO’s, and Government) are suggested to ensure effective mainstreaming of adaptation to induced climate change into mangrove forest. Finally the study recommends more research on non-farm income generation activities and discouragement of expansion of agriculture activities particularly paddy farming in mangrove forests in the study area
Adaptation strategies to climate variability and change by gender in agro-pastoral communities of central Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2012) Mtupile, Eliya Elias
Resource inheritance to male individuals rather than females is predominant in agropastoral communities of semi arid areas of central Tanzania; and is a major cause for inequality in distribution of resources, participation in decisions and share of roles between men and women. This study examines gender-based vulnerability and adaptation strategies of such communities focusing on their roles. It was undertaken in Chamwino District, in Solowu and Mloda villages. 78 households were randomly chosen as respondents in a sample size of 5%. The majority of these (58.5%) came from male headed households, and 70.5% of all respondents were married. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected through participatory methods and analyzed by Statistical Package for Social Sciences and Excel. Climate data for the past 30 years were also collected and analysed. Climate change and variability indicators were revealed from both climate and social data. Annual mean rainfall decreased from 700mm in 1980 to 490mm in 2010 while average temperature increased gradually. The late onset and early end of the rain season resulted into an increase in the hot season of the year and early drying of water sources for domestic use. Pests and diseases increased which affected crops, livestock and humans. Crop harvests particularly and consistently became very poor. Women and girls were most negatively affected due to increased roles with climate impacts. Their ability to recover from climate shocks were also limited by fewer resources. It was concluded that there are signs of climate change and variability affecting the study area. It was recommended that, an entry point to adapt to climate change is to identify roles that are most affected and identify and empower those most affected social groups. Key words: Adaptation, Climate Change, Gender, Agro-Pastoralist, Tanzania.
Adoption level and challenges of drip irrigation system as a climate change adaptation strategy in agricultural production in Kilosa district
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2014) Johnson, Namkunda
Drought impact on agriculture production can be overcomed by continuous adoption of water efficient irrigation system like Drip Irrigation System. Objectives of this study were to analyze the adoption level of Drip Irrigation Systems, determinant factors, challenges and benefits associated with the adoption. The study employed 120 small scale farmers from Kibaoni and Rudewa-Batini villages in Kilosa District who were purposely selected basing on the water related measures they used in agriculture. The Participatory Rural Appraisals techniques including Focus Group Discussion, Household Interview, Key Informant Interview and Direct Observation were used to collect data from the respondents. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple logistic regression models to obtain meaningful results. Key findings show that, adoption level of Drip Irrigation System is low compared to Furrow Irrigation System due to lack of sufficient knowledge and farmers’ familiarity with the technology that goes with it. As a result, agriculture production has remained low due to drying of crops before maturity thus incurring huge losses because of the investment made on the farms. It is because of this background that adoption of Drip Irrigation System becomes necessary for communities. It is therefore recommended that local governments need to develop and encourage polices that support the adoption of Drip Irrigation System. They should also set out innovative financial mechanisms that will assist in empowering small scale farmers with more knowledge on adaptation strategies. This can be done through additional trainings and formulation of cooperative groups where lessons and success stories will be shared by the small scale farmers.
Agricultural production in a changing climate and its implications to farmers’ adaptation in Kilosa district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Maro, Noel J.
The study was conducted in Kilosa district with the aim of examining agricultural production in a changing climate and its implication to farmers‟ adaptation. The district Agro-ecological zones vary ranging from semi-arid to humid climate with three agro ecological zones of Flood plain, Plateau, and Highland. The study also analysed socio-economic characteristics of smallholder farmers in the study area, factors affecting agricultural production, effects of climate change and variability in agriculture production, and challenges and opportunities on agricultural production and adaptation options in the context of climate change and variability in the study area. The study used structured and semi-structured interview to collect data from smallholder farmers, government officials and experts, and secondary data from published and unpublished sources. The data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. Three villages of Chanzuru, Kondoa, and Ilonga were chosen from the district as study sites. Results indicated that the level of education, gender, age, and wealth of the head of household; social capital, and agro-ecological settings, all compromises the ability of the farmers to adapt to climate change and variability. This leads to the suggestion that, there is a need for serious awareness campaign on the causes of climate change in the study area and several adaptation strategies that can be put in place. Analysis of climate data showed that there is a change/ variation in both rainfall (Severe flood, changes in rainfall amount as well as changes in rainfall patterns) and temperature (excessive temperature, moisture components). These changes and variability in climatic conditions causes soil fertility loss, soil erosion problem and consequently lead to an overall decrease in income of small-scale farmers, and so does to adaptation of climate change. Results further showed that technical factors such as poor extension services, poor policy, lack of agriculture subsidies, lack of climate information services and social economic factors such as lack of security of land, poor tenure system, lack of reliable market, and lack of farmers cooperatives has significant effects on appropriate adaptation to climate change and variability on agricultural activities in the study area. Study findings revealed various challenges and opportunity associated with the changes/ variability in climate in the study area. Challenges include changes in family income, changes in family role and responsibilities as well as changes in division of labour. Opportunities include employment opportunities as well as diversification of economic activities
Analysing the role of cassava as an adaptation crop to climate variability and change in coastal areas: a case of Mkuranga district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Mbwambo, Naza Albert
The study aimed at understanding the role of cassava as an adaption strategy to climate change and variability in two purposively selected villages from two different agro-ecological zones in Mkuranga district , coast region-Tanzania. Primary data collection comprised the use of Household questionnaires, FGD, Key Informant Interviews and field observations. Secondary data were collected through literature as well as documentary review, whereas temperature and rainfall data from 1984 to 2014 was collected from the TMA. SPSS and Excel software were used to analyze numeric data, while qualitative data were analyzed by cross tabulation and comparison of different views. The study established climate change in different ways and mentioned the major climatic change events as prolonged droughts and occasional abnormal floods. Analysis of the mean maximum and mean minimum temperature data from TMA for the last 30 years (1984-2014), revealed that, temperature had significantly risen by correlation coefficients of 0.0493 (R^2=0.0493) for maximum and 0.777(R^2= 0.777) for minimum temperature. The years 1981, 1996, 2003 and 2013 had the lowest amounts of rainfall, with 2013 being the driest year over the past 30 years. The study findings from a large number of respondents correlate with rainfall and temperature data from TMA. Findings show that there have been decline in crop production which resulted in food shortages and livehood insecurity in the study villages. The majority of respondents in both villages have found cassava to be the crop that is least affected by climate and environmental extremes, that adjusts to poor soils and that has the lowest production costs, hence ensures food availability and security in households. Basing on these reasons, growing cassava can be considered to be an adaptation strategy in the study area. These include the prevalence of devastating pests/diseases, poor agro-processing technology and unreliable markets. Fostering the exchange of knowhow and good practices related to cassava production, processing, improved marketing and value chain infrastructures are crucial points for enhancing sustainable adaption mechanism
Analysis of national policies and regulations for achieving REDD+ and their implementation by CBFM projects in Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Rweyendera, Procecius
Deforestation in Tanzania is actually caused by a variety of activities such as a selective logging; unsustainable rates of extraction of timber and non-timber products by local communities, mainly for their own use and commercial purposes. In recognising the existence of such drivers, the government of Tanzania realised the danger facing our resources and endangered species by taking appropriate measures ranging from policy, legal framework and institutional arrangement. Tanzania also adopted sector policies related with forest; mineral, land, wildlife; fisheries; agriculture and livestock which put priority on conservation and management of natural resources, therefore supporting an implementation of REDD+. However the implementation of REDD+ cannot be achieved at required standards because those policies addresses the issues of population, agricultural, wood fuel and settlement dynamics are not place in integrative manner. Therefore, this study has two parts in which the first one aimed at analyzing the National Policies used for Regulation of Population, Agricultural, Wood fuel and Settlement dynamics as a means to achieve REDD+ in Tanzania. The analysis is based on SWOT analysis framework towards to National Policies and Policy tools on implementing the REDD+ programmes. The second part of that study was to assess the implementation of policies and policy tools for regulation of population, agricultural, wood fuel and settlement dynamics by a Community Forest Reserve at Mgori Forest Reserve. At the studied area the information was achieved by using FGD, direct observation and household questionnaire in which the data were interpreted by SPSS statistics version 20 in order to obtain the research outputs.
Analysis of pesticides in some fruits, vegetables and soils from selected farms in Morogoro region, Tanzania.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2018) Mwakisambwe, Neema
The increase in food demand has lead to a wide use of pesticides applications for agricultural production which has caused negative impact on human health through residues concentration in foods. This study aimed in finding out the levels of pesticide residues in some fruits, vegetables and soils of Morogoro region, Tanzania. Samples were collected randomly and analysed by using WHO method of Sample preparation was carried out using the method, known as the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS). A total of 120 vegetable, fruit and soil samples collected from Morogoro farms were analysed for pesticide residue concentrations. The samples were collected from Dakawa, Mgeta, Mlali and Kingolwira farms. Endosulfan, primiphos, bifenthrin, DDT, o,p’ DDE, p,p’ DDD, cypermethrin, dimethoate, fenthion and cyhalothrin residues were found with lower concentrations in fruits and vegatables collected from Mlali and Mgeta farms. All the samples analyzed were found contaminated with low levels of pesticides compared to Maximum Residues Limits (MRL) of CODEX recommended levels. Low concentration of cyhalothrin was found only in soil samples from Dakawa, however no pesticide residues were detected in fruits and vegetables from Dakawa and Kingolwira farms. Although the pesticides concentrations were below the MRLs it is recommended to assess the risk to human health derived from long term consumption of fruits and vegetables, since there is a possibility of attaining higher levels due to bioconcentration.
Analysis of round potato marketing in Tanzania: a case of Rungwe district
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2012) Nyunza, Godfrey
Analysis of round potato marketing in Tanzania: a case of Rungwe district
Analysis of the benefits of conservation agriculture in improving livelihoods in a changing climate in Balaka district, Malawi
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Zimba, Josephine Marion
Conservation Agriculture (CA) has been highly promoted due to its potential to ensure high crop yields even in the face of changes in climatic factors. However, the actual benefits associated with CA are not only primarily focused on food security but are also site-specific. Therefore, this study seeks to understand the benefits of Conservation Agriculture in improving livelihoods in a changing climate in Balaka district, particularly Hanjahanja and Sawali sections of Bazale Extension Planning Area. Specifically, it analyses the socio-economic characteristics of farmers, factors influencing agricultural production and CA adoption, CA’s contribution to farmers’ livelihoods and challenges and opportunities of CA in climate change adaptation. Data was collected through household surveys (n=153), key informant interviews (n=9), Focus Group Discussions, and Field Observations. The study found that there are differences in age, farm size, and education levels between adopters and non-adopters suggesting that these factors significantly influence adoption of CA. Apparently; dry spells are a major factor influencing both crop production and, eventually, CA adoption. Due to CA adoption, a majority of the farmers in both Hanjahanja and Sawali section have realised positive livelihood outcomes mainly through improved food security and increased incomes. Despite the similarity, Hanjahanja farmers reported decrease in yields in seasons marred with floods. However, farmers face several challenges due to CA adoption, which include: high labour demands, rainfall variability and lack of inputs. Even so, improvement in soil moisture, soil erosion control, improved food security, presence of several institutions and enabling environment offer more opportunities of CA in adapting to climate change. CA, therefore, improves the livelihoods of the farmers except in times of floods. Hence, deliberate policies, by the government, to promote adoption of CA are required to take advantage of the benefits of CA. Further; research should also be done on how best to reduce the negative effects of CA on farmers’ livelihoods.
Analysis of the contribution of private sector payments for watershed services conservation in Tanzania: a case of East Usambara mountain- Muheza district, Tanga.
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Mnyambo, Gerald
Zigi River Catchment in East Usambara was degraded due to economic activities of the upstream land owners which impacted negatively on water availability and water quality downstream. Previously command and control instruments were used for watershed management. However, through this intervention, upstream land people showed low willingness in improving watershed management due to various reasons but mainly lack of economic incentives. This led to thinking alternative watershed management interventions among them is the Payment for Ecosystem Services (PES). PES is considered a voluntary alternative policy instrument for conservation of ecosystem services worldwide. Payment for Watershed Services (PWS) the subset of PES; aims at improving watershed management by upstream land users through modifying their land use practices whereby downstream water users have to pay upstream land managers for provision of watershed services (water quality and flow). The purpose of this study was to investigate the contribution of private sector in Payment for Watershed Services in Tanga Region. Downstream users in Tanga Region include a large number of private sector including Tanga Cement Co. Ltd, Tanga Fresh Ltd, Maweni Limestone Limited, Arthi River Mining Company, Tanga Pharmaceutical and Plastics Ltd, Mradi wa Maji Mlingano, Rosmin Secondary School and others. These industries consume a big quantity of water in the region. But how significant has had the contribution of private sector towards watershed conservation? This study was an attempt to respond to this key question. Data were collected through literature review, household interviews, direct observation, Key Informant Interviews (KII) and interviews with private sector managers. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and results were presented in the form of tables and figures. Qualitative data were analyzed using Content Analysis. Findings show little participation and willingness to participate in PWS by large scale private sector. This is mainly a result of low awareness among private sector entrepreneurs on the link between upstream activities and water quality and flow downstream. Also as private sector investors, are not clear on how this could benefit them individually and avoid rent seeking. It is recommended that environmental education on PES should be provided to private sectors operators for them to participate in PWS. Also, laws and regulations should be formulated and enforced to ensure smooth running of PWS.
Analysis of the contribution of wildlife management areas in enhancing livelihood security to community; the case of Radileni WMA
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2017) Mombo, Mathew Michael
This study was conducted around Randileni CBWMA in Monduli district. The study aimed at analyzing the contribution of Community Based Wildlife Management towards enhancing livelihood security in Randileni Community based Wildlife Management Area (CBWMA). Various rese arch techniques were applied to capture socio-economic, livelihood and contribution m ade by Randileni CBWAMA in three villages; namely Naitolia, Msuakini and Msuakini juu Household surveys were conducted, to capture quantitative primary data, meanwhile Key Informant interviews, Focus Group Discussion and field observation methods were utilized to collect qualitative primary data. In addition, financial report and other publications related to Randileni CBWMA and wildlife were used as secondary information. It was noted that, the community had diverse socio economic stat us whereby; livestock rearing was major followed by agriculture. Other livelihood activities reported by members of the community included hunting and gathering, petty trade unskilled labour, employment, handcraft, milling machine and tractor for farming activities. Presence of CBWMA has had an impact on the livelihood of the local community. It was noted that, households had adopted multitude of activities yet, there were household adopted new livelihood activities such as motorcycle business (Bodaboda) 45.5%, petty trade (27.3%) artisan's (9.1%), handcraft (9.1%) and agriculture (9.1%) which diversified livelihood in the Maasai nomadic way of lifestyle. The presence Randileni CBWMA made significant contribution in livelihood to the whole community as well as an individual household; major contribution noted was access to land 64.07%, wildlife protection 9.5% and others. Findings show that, the local community gained significant income of about 20257499.16 Tsh per .village in 2016/17 from tourism meanwhile Randileni CBWMA gained significant income from tourism and other development partners as well. Therefore, presence of Randileni CBWMA was perceived positively as a community livelihood companion. However, challenges were noted, which required improvement, such as loss of privilege, which was enjoyed by local community before establishment of Randileni CBWMA, human wildlife conflict and decreasing pastures and agricultural land. It has been concluded that, Randileni CBWMA has made significant contribution to livelihood security and diversification to an individual household and the general community through provision of necessary livelihood enhancing services. The Randileni CBWMA has contributed directly and indirectly to local community and Randileni CBWMA, through series of activities, goods and services which keep on increasing as the association is getting consolidated through investment in physical infrastructures and promotion of tourism and hospitality services. Therefore, despite the challenges accompanied to fluctuating opportunities offered through Randileni CBWMA; the livelihood-security is secured and enhanced.
Analyzing community engagement in institutionalizing climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives: a case study of yovi hydropower project in Kilosa district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Tenga, Bahati
The purpose of this study was to investigate the feasibility of engaging rural communities in the process of institutionalizing climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives, focusing on the process of engagement and communication and to learn how strongly community people are rationally and emotionally committed to the issues of renewable energy. The study was conducted among 100 respondents drawn from communities of Kilosa District, along with interviews with key stakeholders at village, district and national levels. Based on grounded theory, the study utilized qualitative method and techniques to design, collect and analyze the data. The study found that in the case of the Yovi hydropower project, community people were more informed than engaged during the institutionalization of the hydropower project. While the project proponents were able to communicate to villagers through district and village leaders, there were insufficient platforms and required capacities for the village leaders to engage effectively with the citizens about the project. It was also noted that the processes of engagement and communication could not effectively help the community residents understand the purpose of the project, so they were unable to link it with climate change adaptation and mitigation. This raises a critical question: what was the purpose of engaging community people to institutionalize climate change in this hydropower project? This is important to know when institutionalizing climate change projects to involve, collaborate with and empower various actors and villagers at the local level so that their voices are actually heard and they can influence the decisions and actions.
Application of a GIS-based channel network model (CCHEID) for the Pangani river system
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2006) Patrick, Philipo
Previous studies on soil erosion from the upland reaches the reservoir. Such low delivery ratio has been attributed to presence of low lands, takes, swamps, and mild channel thalweg slopes. Besides, some gauging flow stations such as IDCI in the main Ruvu River has been abandoned since the impoundment of Nyumba ya Mungu dam in 1968. Other workers have characterized Pangani River System an complex river network. A mathematical model called CCHEID that uses dynamic wave model and a number of sediment transport capacity equation to route flood and sediment were applied in the Pangani River System. In order to complete flow discharges data for abandoned gauging station, IDCI, a complex rating curve was developed. A natural river system was calibrated using flow and/or sediment flow data from IDCI and ID8A gauging stations, which, are located within the study reach. The flow routing module was validated before and after the dam installation. Besides, comparing simulated and measured channel thalweg elevation after 37 years of Nyumba ya Mungu reservoir operations validated sediment routing module. The model performances during flow and/or stage calibration period according to Nash and Sutcliffe criterion R^2 are 80% for IDCI and (81% and 89.5%) for ID8A respectively, while validation period for IDCI is 52%. A qualitative assessment of the plots of simulated and measured sediment thalweg elevation has indicated that they are comparable. This study has also found that there is no significant sediment deposition in the upstream river reaches of the study area, but rather most sediment reaches into the reservoir and focuses in the main Pangani river channel within first 25 km from the dam.
Application of the swat model in estimating sediment yield: a case of songwe river basin in Mbeya, tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam,, 2012) Eslan, Philemon
Songwe River basin covering about 4214.3 km2, has undergone tremendous changes in land use/land cover in the recent past. These changes are suspected to have impacted negatively on the hydrology and soil conservation of the catchment. In order to make recommendation on catchment management, SWAT model was calibrated using observed stream flow and sediment data, but, sensitivity analysis was carried out before calibration to understand the most sensitive parameters. SWAT model has been chosen as it is an integrated physically based distributed watershed model. Also, its suitability to different parts of the world has also been well established. Data from year 1984-2009 were used to simulate stream flow and sediment yield. Auto-calibration has been performed first followed by manual, with 6 and 3 years’ time series of stream flow were used for calibration and validation respectively. Flow calibration efficiency has been tested by ENS and R2. On calibration the values of R2 and ENS were 0.63 and 0.54 while on validation were 0.62 and 0.51 respectively. On sediment Calibration the model performance was tested using RMSE and relative error. The results of relative error were <20% except two pairs which were 21% and 22% respectively. Sediment calibration gave a RMSE of 29.75. Validation of sediment was done using factors that contribute to sediment detachment, transport and deposition. The factors included rainfall variability, runoff and sub basin elevation/slope. Results showed that sediment yield has close relationship with these factors. The estimated annual average sediment yield was about 377 t/km2/yr. The study recommended further studies; especially on land use/cover change should be carried out to investigate the most causative of sedimentation in Songwe River Basin.
Assessing adaptive capacity to climate change among smallholder farmers in Bunda district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Mung’onya, Josephat Malero
This study was designed to assess the adaptive capacity to climate change among smallholder farmers in Bunda District, in two villages, namely Bulamba and Kabainja. The study used a mixed approach, but mainly dominated by qualitative approach and complemented with quantitative elements. The objectives of the study were to: explore the extent farmers perceive and experience climate change in the area; find out various effects of climate change in the area as perceived by the farmers; determine adjustment strategies adopted by the farmers and investigated how farmers’ interaction with social institutions. Data were collected from eighty nine (89) mixed farmers randomly selected from the study area, using household survey. Other means namely key informants interview, focus group discussion, field observations and secondary data review were used to collect the data. Results show that most of the farmers (100) were in arrangement that the climate is changing in the area and that changes in rainfall pattern were most prominent. Farmers perceived reduced crop yield, increased drought, among others, as the greatest adverse effects of climate change. Some of the strategies adopted to combat the adverse effects included; adjustment by adopting early planting and use of improved crop varieties, among others. Farmers were found to have low levels of capacity to adopt to climate change without social institutions’ involvement. It was concluded that examining how smallholders adapt to climate change and variability (CC&V) may provide significant approach for mainstreaming climate change adaptation policies in national development strategies to enhance adaptive capacity. It was finally recommended that adaptation interventions designed to enhance adaptive capacity on smallholders to the impacts of climate change in Bunda District and the nation at large should be holistic and address the day-to –day smallholders’ problems.
Assessing Contribution of Artisanal Mining to Improving Livelihoods; the Case of Nyakabale, Geita Town,Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2015) Sadiki, Samson
This study assessed contribution of artisanal mining to improving livelihoods at Nyakabale, Geita Town. Despite the fact that most studies focused on artisanal and small-scale mining, very little is known on contribution of artisanal mining to improvement of livelihoods in this study area. Thus, this research intended to fill the knowledge gap on the contribution of Artisanal mining to improving livelihoods. The objectives of the study were: to assess the income at household level of Artisanal miners apart from involving in such activity; to identify factors for people's involvement in artisanal mining; to examine the contribution of Artisanal mining on household income and to assess the measures that could be taken to ensure the sustainability of livelihood in mining communities. A total of 162 households were involved, whereby 41 households were artisanal miners and 121 households were non-artisanal miners. Data collection methods used were documentary review; focus group discussion and questionnaire survey. Findings from the study reveal that 23 percent of total households at Nyakabale Street were involved in artisanal mining. Findings from this study showed that, artisanal mining contributes positively to livelihoods of Nyakabale dwellers. However, benefits are rather minimal because of several constraints encountered. In view of this, the importance of artisanal mining needs to be helped by policy makers in relation to individual, household and community benefits. Realization of these benefits will enhance development in exploitation of this non-renewable natural resource.
Assessing effectiveness of combining indigenous and scientific knowledge in communicating weather information: a case study of Tanzania meteorological agency initiatives in Ulanga district, Tanzania
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2017) Makongoro, Hawa Ramadhani
Using grounded theory, the study explored the process in which TMA used to combine indigenous and scientific knowledge, as well as its implications in communicating weather information in Mahenge communities of Ulanga District in Morogoro Region. Specifically the study identify and explain strengths and challenges of indigenous weather knowledge, certainty and uncertainty of scientific weather knowledge and the process used to combine indigenous and scientific weather knowledge and its implications on the rural community. The selection of villages based on the evidence that the pilot project on the combination of scientific and indigenous knowledge in communicating weather information were implemented into those two villages. Using techniques of the qualitative research paradigm and sampling procedures a total of 20 key informants at the district and village level and Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) Dar es Salaam head office were interviewed and 100 respondents were surveyed using semi-structured questionnaire. The evidence shows that indigenous and scientific weather knowledge are valid as well as complement one another. When these two pieces of weather knowledge are combined, a set of hybridised weather knowledge emerges. Hybridized weather knowledge seemed a better tool to communicate climate change information in rural communities. For better utilization of hybridized weather information, it is incumbent that the government introduces a policy to protect and formalize indigenous weather information as well as the sharing mechanisms for distributing the hybridized weather knowledge. This mechanism should clearly identify the roles of individual experts and identify platforms and specific times at which individual experts’ should transfer the hybridized knowledge to other community members. There is a need to generate more empirical data on combining both scientific and indigenous weather knowledge. Thus, further research is required to explain why indigenous weather knowledge combines both explicit and tacit knowledge, and how hybridized knowledge can be socialized, enhanced and institutionalized at rural community level.
Assessing livelihood challenges and coping strategies associated with pastoralists’ settlement in Lindi region: a case study of Mkwajuni village
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2014) Makama, Charles
This study assessed the livelihood challenges and coping strategies associated with immigrant pastoralists’ settled in Lindi Region, particularly those who were evicted from Ihefu wetland in Mbeya region in 2007. The Study used cross- sectional qualitative and quantitative methods in data collection. A total of 30 heads of households and six key informants were interviewed. Data were analyzed through the Statistical Package of Social Science (SPSS) and Microsoft Excel software. The study revealed that, the main livelihood challenges were inadequate water and pasture during dry season, lack of property right/right of occupancy, presence of tsetse flies, inadequate grazing area, diseases, livestock attack by wild animals, and conflict with other land users especially farmers. The main coping strategy at the study village was out migration to other areas (e.g. Matarawe Sub-Village) and diversification of livelihood activities, which included cultivation of cash crops such as sesame rather than relying on food crops and pastoralism only. The study revealed that basically, there are more fundamental livelihood challenges facing pastoral community at Mkwajuni village compared to the situation in Ihefu. Therefore, the central and local government and pastoralists should meet to discuss, among other things, solutions to reduce the challenges in the village and other pastoralist areas.
Assessing the effectiveness of climate information delivery system in Tanzania: the case of Kiteto District in Manyara Region
(University of Dar es Salaam, 2016) Mushi, Shamim Twalib
The importance of weather and climate information and services is growing due to the need to serve more elaborate societal needs, minimize growing economic losses from natural hazards and help in adaptation to climate change. However, the information and services developed and delivered by National Meteorological Services, which in many countries are weak and need considerable support. This study assessed the effectiveness of climate information delivery system in Tanzania. The study was conducted in Kiteto district, Manyara region in Tanzania. The study population comprised farmers, small scale and commercial, pastoralists and agricultural extension officers. The findings indicate that TMA offers a wide range of services including weather forecasting (public, marine and aeronautical), various technical services, research and applied services, as well as specific services for the Zanzibar and Pemba delivered by the Zanzibar Office Division. The findings further indicate that local communities have their own indigenous knowledge based weather forecasting such as patterns of flowering plants, changes in human body conditions such as illness, animal laziness, insects, birds, astronomical objects (moon and stars), and changes in atmospheric behaviours. The findings also reveal farmers have difficulties in differentiating the types of climate information offered by TMA due to the language and terminologies used. Reliability and area specificity of the information offered is also a major issue as reported by 50% of the farmers. The findings also indicate visible complexities in coordination of responsibilities related to provision of climate change/meteorological services among key Government institutions, namely, the Vice President’s Office-Division of Environment (VPO-DoE), the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), and the Ministry of Transport under which TMA operates. The study concludes that many communities in Kiteto district still rely heavily on indigenous methods when it comes to climate issues such as weather forecasting and climate projection. It is also evidently clear that climate information delivered by TMA still needs a lot of improvement as it does not cover specific regions but rather provide general or blanket information that might be difficult for farmers and other stakeholders to make sense of. Based on the findings, it is strongly recommended that TMA should do more to increase the user community understanding and use of climate information and services in development activities. This study argues that TMA should make sure that its products are packaged and tailored such that they are user friendly and user specific

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