The role of indigenous knowledge in adaptation to climate change and variability: a case of Bagamoyo district, Tanzania
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Date
2009
Authors
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Publisher
University of Dar es Salaam
Abstract
This study investigated the role of indigenous knowledge (IK) in adaption to climate change and variability in two villages selected from two agro-ecological zones in Bagamoyo district. Data was collected by using informants interviews, focus group discussions, household survey as well as review of secondary data. The Statistical Packages for Social Sciences (SPSS) and Excel were used to analyze quantitative data. Qualitative data were presented in descriptive forms: tables, figures, graphs, maps and photographs. The study found out that through IK, the communities studied have developed several indigenous adaption strategies that have enabled them to reduce their vulnerability to past and present climate change and variability. These strategies were particularly evident in farming, fishing, food presentation and storage and in dealing with natural disasters like droughts and famine. It is concluded that the communities studied have a high awareness of climate issues and through their IK, these communities have managed their resources and livelihoods in the face of challenging environmental and socio-economic conditions. Therefore, there is a need of recognizing and actively promoting IK through incorporating it into climate change policies and modern knowledge. Incorporating it into climate change policies and modern knowledge. Incorporating IK can add value to the development of sustainable climate change adaptation strategies that are rich in local content, and planned in conjunction with local people.
Description
Available in print form, East Africana Collection, Dr. Wilbert Chagula Library, Class Mark (THS EAF QC981.8.C5A62)
Keywords
Climatic change, Indigenous knowlede
Citation
Andrew, B (2009) The role of indigenous knowledge in adaptation to climate change and variability: a case of Bagamoyo district, Tanzania, Master dissertation, University of Dar es Salaam