Adaptive capacity of pastoralists to climate change in Kilosa District,Tanzania

A study was conducted to investigate the adaptive capacity of pastoralists
in Kilosa district to climate change. Specifically, the study assessed the
trend and impact of climate change in the area, adaptive elements of
pastoral communities against climate change and determined
contribution of state agencies in enhancing pastoral system’s resilience to
climate variability in the district. Data were collected using household
questionnaire survey, focus group discussions, key informant interviews
and field observation. Data analysis was done using Excel and SPSS
computer software programs. Results revealed that in the period 1972-
1974, there was a significant shift of rainfall in the study area from bimodal
to unimodal. This trend has been consistent with climate change
scenarios in recent decades of lower rainfall and more severe droughts.
Most pastoralists were aware of climate change impacts namely water
scarcity, increase of livestock diseases and increased distance to grazing
lands. The capacity of pastoralists to adapt to climate change stress
depends largely on the number of livestock. Pastoralists owning more
livestock are more likely to adapt to climate change. This study
recommends that the community should diversify to other sustainable
economic activities rather than relying on livestock only while climatic
conditions are not favourable this economic activity. The Government
should put more effort on supporting pastoralists in their adaptive
strategies as well as regular review of policies to favour adaptation
measures

Author(s): Zakayo, R.

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