Factors influencing willingness to pay for watershed services in lower Moshi, Pangani basin, Tanzania

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Date
2014
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study investigated factors that influence farmers' Willingness to Pay (WTP) for Watershed Services. It also investigates the potentials and challenges of the current water resources management institutional framework in Lower Moshi Irrigation Area. A total sample of 99 farmers from Mabogini ward was selected randomly for interviews. Both quantitative and qualitative data were collected for the study from primary and secondary sources. Through a multiple linear regression model of Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programme, findings showed a significant positive relationship between WTP and education (p < 0.05), farm size (p < 0.05) and household income (p< 0.05). While parameters of land tenure, age and gender were also positive but they were not statistically significant. On the other hand, results showed inverse relationship from the water intake and the WTP. The study also found holistic basin management approach; women participation in water management; customary and traditional institutions, as the important potentials which can facilitate farmers WTP for watershed services. On the other hand inadequate funds and antagonistic decisions made by politicians, government officials and other influential people are the underlying challenges affecting WTP for watershed services. Based on the findings it can be fairly concluded that, education, household income and plot size are the major socio – economic factors which influencing WTP for watershed services. Other factors are gender, land tenure, mode of payment and water resources management institutional framework. The study therefore, recommends review of the National Water policy and legislations governing water resources and putting in place a proper mechanism where water users contribute to watersheds management. Also environmental education should be given priority in schools, society, political leaders and government officials. This will facilitate WTP for watershed services as the community could understand the linkage between the environment and the water supply.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class mark (THA EAF TD319.T34P38)
Keywords
Water supply, Water resources development, Pangani basin (Tanzania), Tanzania
Citation
Paul, I. N. (2014).Factors influencing willingness to pay for watershed services in lower Moshi, Pangani basin, Tanzania, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam.