Investigation of Availability, Access and Use Of Climate Information by Smallholder Farmers in Tanzania: a Case of Msolwa Ujamaa and Sanje Villages in the Kilombero River Catchment, Morogoro Region

This study investigated the availability, access and use of climate information by smallholder farmers in Kilombero River Catchment in Morogoro, Tanzania. The study was carried out in May 2017 with three specific objectives: (i) to identify the available climate services and their accessibility to smallholder farmers and stakeholders in the study area; (ii) to assess the barriers to the use of climate information in decision making of smallholder farmers, and (iii) to identify factors for enhancing access and use of climate information by smallholder farmers. Qualitative and quantitative approaches were used whereby data were collected in two villages of Sanje and Msolwa Ujamaa through focus group discussion involving 15 people from each village and 4 key informants. On the other hand, 50 and 60 households from Sanje and Msolwa Ujamaa villages respectively were randomly sampled for interviews. Finally, field observation was conducted through transect walk across villages to validate information. Raw data were coded and analyzed with the aid of statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) whereas qualitative data were analyzed descriptively in key themes. Findings revealed that rainfall, temperature and sunshine have the most accessed climate information; mainly from weather stations and indigenous knowledge. The main use of information has been mostly on preparedness and timing on planting. Barriers on the use of climate information include lack of localized climate information, generalization of climate information from TMA failing to depict realities on the ground, and highly technical information. It was concluded that socio-economic characteristics affect access and use of climate information. This study recommends timely and accurate information on climate change, training to farmers, improved and strengthened cooperation with stakeholders such as researchers, meteorologists and extension officers on climate adaptation strategies and mitigation measures using existing information as well as knowledge on the said aspects.