Department of Geography

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Assessment of Communitiescoping Mechanisms to Geodisasters in the Vicinity of Oldoinyo Lengai, Northern Tanzania
(2014) Haulle, Evaristo
Assessment of Traditional Environmental Knowledge Systems Applied to Climate Change and Variability Adaptation in Rombo District, Tanzania
(2019) Fundisha, Evarist
This study was done to assess the efficacy of traditional environmental knowledge systems (TEKS) applied to climate change and variability adaptation in Rombo District, Tanzania. Different methods of data collection, analysis and presentation were employed for sensible report. Results indicate the study community have, to some extent, managed to withstand the effects of climate change and variability and other stressors by employing TEKS. The devised adaptation strategies to crop failure resulted from climate change and variability can be related to agronomic techniques, social coherence and livelihood diversification. The efficacy of the devised adaptation strategies were hindered by small land sizes, location, insolvency, technical knowhow, and climate change and variability. For effective adaptation to climate change and variability, multidisciplinary approaches that consider location and socio-economic characteristics of individuals are recommended.
ASSESSMENT OF TRADITIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL KNOWLEDGE SYSTEMS APPLIED TO RAINFALL FORECASTING IN ROMBO DISTRICT, TANZANIA
(2016) Fundisha, Evarist
Accurate rainfall forecasting enables rural communities to make informed, timely and effective decisions on their farming activities presumably leading to increased productivity. As such, a more appropriate, accessible and user friendly rainfall forecasting methods and information is needed. This study was conducted to assess efficacy of the traditional environmental knowledge systems applied to rainfall forecasting in Rombo District, Tanzania for sustainable climate change adaptation. Triangulation of data collection methods were used to obtain diverse and detailed information. Out of 611 interviewees, 44.2% could forecast rainfall using environmental indicators (EIs) of whom 75.5% were unable to forecast beyond a week. It was somewhat difficult to judge the reliability of some EIs in forecasting rainfall because the same indicator was rated differently by different respondents, as very reliable, reliable, not reliable and no longer reliable. Although half of the respondents anticipated a decrease in rainfall, forecasting from Global Climate Models revealed the opposite. The study recommends a multidisciplinary approach and sharing of knowledge and information for effective rainfall forecasting.
Assessment on the State of Household Food Security in Bahi District, Tanzania
(Modern Scientific Press, 2016) Myeya, Helena E; Kamangu, Abdallah A
Abstract: This paper is an attempt to assess the variations on the state of household food security in Bahi district, Tanzania. A cross sectional research design with quantitative and qualitative methods was employed to 130 household heads. Interviews, focus group discussions, documentary review and field observations were used in data collection. Descriptive statistics including frequencies and percentages were used to analyze quantitative data while content analysis has been used to analyze qualitative data. Findings indicate that the total actual grain available during the time of survey was 740 bags, meeting only 61.1% of the total requirements of 1210 bags. Analysis on the number of meals eaten per day during the time of this study affirmed that only 20.8% of the sampled households could afford the normal three meals a day. The study concludes that, transitory household food insecurity is real in the study area calling for viable measures to be taken including improvement in food production, availability, proper storage, supply, proper use of the harvested crops and improvement of peoples’ livelihoods are inevitable. This can be done through provision of soft credit, agricultural inputs, farming and storage education and improvement of transport systems to ensure timely supply and distribution of food in times of critical food shortage.
Building Community Resilience to Earthquake Disaster Risk Reduction in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Case of Southwestern Tanzania
(Tanzania UNESCO National Committee, 2009) Hambat, Hebert; Haulle, Evaristo; Rugumamu, William
Challenges encountered by smallholder farmers in adapting to adverse effects of climate change in semi-arid areas of Central Tanzania
(University of Warsaw, 2018-11) Myeya, Helena E
This article investigates adaptation measures and challenges facing smallholder farmers in adapting to climate change and variability effects in semiarid areas of Dodoma region, central Tanzania. Mixed method research approach under cross-sectional survey design was employed in data collection. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis have been used in analyzing and presenting the findings. The study results indicate that smallholder farmers have observed variations in rainfall and temperature trends that were linked to reduced cereal crop yields. The study noted that the farmers respond to reduced cereal crop yields by implementing various adaptive strategies. They include growing drought tolerant crop varieties, practicing intercropping, shifting the planting to earlier/later dates, increase farm sizes and out-migration. It was further found in this study that smallholder farmers encountered a number of challenges when they take adaptation measures to overcome declining crop yields. The challenges include inadequate capital, elevated agricultural equipment and input prices and absence of soft loans arrangements. Other challenges include low price for agricultural produce, poor weather information and agricultural extension services all of which rendered negative effects on cereal crop production and household food security. The impact of climate change and variability are conclusively evident in this study while effective smallholder farmer’s adaptation mechanisms are limited. To ensure household food security, purposeful institutional intervention plans and optimal support on extension services and provision of credit facilities are needed on viable adaptation strategies against impacts of climate change and variability in semiarid areas of Tanzania.
Community Awareness and their Response to Bio fuel Production in Tanzania: A Case of Kisarawe and Singida Districts
(SRYAHWA Publications, 2015-07-25) Haulle, Evaristo
The papers assess the community awareness and their responses to biofuel production in Tanzania. There is global concern in alternative source of energy as the consumption of fossils fuels increases with the decline of fuel reserves during the last two centuries and especially during the last two decades. It has been assumed that the marginal soils that have failed to support other food crop will support Jatropha farming and therefore improve community income and wellbeing. The in-depth interviews and Focus Group Discussions were employed to find out the reality and people`s perception on the biofuel production. Documentary search complimented the primary data in relation to global context. It was observed that in Kisarawe people were in need of income and alternative source of income though they were sceptical on its advantages. Singida showed it clear that biofuel production has no benefit to their community. Land dispossession with very limited or compensation is dominant with unfulfilled promises. It is concluded that the process of the project introduction was not participatory people were considered as recipient and therefore a lot of conflict have emerged and will continue to rise. There is need to adopt the bottom up cum top down approach with clear analysis of viability of the development project for sustainable development.
Concentrations of Heavy Metals (Zn, Cu, Pb and Cd) in the Selected Edible Fish Species along the Coast of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
(2008) Fundisha, Evarist
The concentrations of heavy metals in edible fish species were determined to assess their health hazards to fish consumers. Mean concentrations of Zinc (gg-1 dry wt) in liver, kidney, gills and muscles were 121.78, 72.87, 61.66 and 10.30 and 14.13, 8.36, 3.40 and 1.98 for Copper respectively. Cadmium and Lead were below the detection limit (0.01 ㎍ g-1) in muscles but for liver, kidney and gills, the mean values were 0.14, 0.10 and 0.01 gg-1 for Cadmium and 0.03, 0.04 and 0.06 gg-1 for Lead respectively. This indicates that the concentrations of metals in the fish were within permissible levels.
Drivers, Livelihood Dynamics and Effects of Out-migration in Ileje District, Tanzania
(University of Warsaw, 2020-11) Myeya, Helena E
This paper attempts to examine the drivers, livelihood dynamics and impacts of migration in Ileje district, Tanzania. A total of 249 heads of households were involved in this study. The study used both quantita tive and qualitative techniques in collecting and analysing data where household questionnaire, in-depth interviews, field observations, focus group discussions and documentary review were used as data gathering techniques. Descriptive statistics and content analysis have been used as data analysis methods. Findings from this study indicate that, pover ty is a major cause of out-migration though, land shortage, poor soils and unfavourable climatic conditions also act as push factors. Moreover, results revealed that through out-migration, migrants have improved their livelihoods and that of their relatives. The study concludes that out-migration is highly attributed by poverty levels in Ileje district and through migration people have changed their life to better condition. It is recommended to provide support to the communities of migrants in Drivers, Livelihood Dynamics and Effects of Out-migration in their home place in order to improve their livelihoods strategies hence reduce poverty and out-migration as well.
Ethical Issues and Politics in Research for Sustainable Resource Management in Tanzania
(David Publishing, 2015-05-16) Haulle, Evaristo
Research ethics is key for resource management in any community. Through in-depth interview, observation and documentary search it was noted that most of the studies lack integrity. People are hired to produce report without clear and streamlined methodology. Nature of the community and the way it is organised poses challenge in acquiring information. People expression is an important aspect in getting liable findings. The conflicts over resources in Namawala and Magaiduru villages led to loss of trust and rejection of researchers as they are discovered to falsify the community. Some findings were fabricated to convince the donors’ interests to call for more funds. Other decision makers would commission researcher to produce false data to suit their interests. This causes academic and researchers be classified as a tool of politician to pacify the public in order to maintain the status quo. The problem is caused by lack of sufficient research fund and understanding on the research essence, and importance of ethical consideration for good research. The situation causes multiple sided effects in the community. Generally, lack of research ethics and presence of greed politicians jeopardise resource management, peace and security. There is need to build the culture of truth and integrity for community development. Research methods need to be taught rigorously in order to build capacity in tools and principles.
Evaluating Earthquake Disaster Risk Management in Schools in Rungwe Volcanic Province in Tanzania
(AOSIS Publishing, 2012-05-20) Haulle, Evaristo
This article establishes existing knowledge on earthquakes and coping mechanisms employed in reducing the severity of adverse impacts caused by an earthquake disaster in a specific locality. The purpose of the study was to recommend useful measures for disaster risk management. It also more particularly aimed at assessing mechanisms employed in reducing the disaster risk and integrating knowledge of disasters and hazards in primary and secondary school curricula. The study was carried out in Rungwe Volcanic Province in Rungwe District, Tanzania, and included recording people’s attitudes towards earthquake disaster and locations of schools. It employed focus group discussions, public hearings and interviews in order to capture the actual situation relating to risk and vulnerability assessments by the community. The study revealed high levels of risk and vulnerability to the impact of earthquakes on the part of the community, who accepted earthquakes as a normal phenomenon and therefore did not employ special measures to reduce the impact. The study showed that the community’s coping mechanisms and the extent to which disaster management knowledge has been integrated in school curricula are inadequate in addressing earthquake disasters. It is thus recommended that traditional and modern technologies be integrated in curricula and later in sustainable practices; such technologies include the belief in ‘Nyifwila’, traditional housing style and wooden housing, and non-structural planning for disaster risk management.
Fertility Myth of Oldoinyo Lengai and Its Impacts to the Maasai Community of Northern Tanzania
(2015) Haulle, Evaristo; Njewele, Delphine
The paper aims to explore the myth of fertility associated with Oldoinyo Lengai and its impacts to the Maasai community in the Gregorian rift valley system in northern Tanzania. It assumes that in African spirituality, myths are used to guide knowledge, values and practices in the community and Mother Nature. Fertility is among the major transformation event in human life circles that can be reflected through community myth. Through in-depth interviews and observation techniques primary data relating to culture, customs and traditions were obtained. Documentary search was employed to supplement field data. The study found out that the Maasai community depended on the Oldoinyo Lengai (Mountain of God) for the fertility of human and animals. The fertility myth among the Maasai pressurized them to prefer many children. The myth also encouraged the dominance of promiscuousness; and the deterioration of health due to bearing many children with limited maternal health care and the spread of sexually transmitted diseases. Thus the myth of Oldoinyo Lengai in relation to fertility has caused incredible adverse impact to the Maasai community, particularly in Tanzania. The study recommends that health education and services be extended to villages in the vicinity of Oldoinyo Lengai with service providers who are well-trained to integrate the nature of the myth and its side effects to the community in relation to the changing socio-economic landscape. Moreover, it is imperative to empower the community members economically and socially so that they can decide their fate and exercise their consent.
Forest Structure and Climate Change Mitigation Potential: A Case of Wilolesi and Ikonongo Forested Hills in Iringa Municipality, Tanzania
(2021-02) Fundisha, Evarist
Vegetation plays major roles in carbon storage and ecosystem functioning by modifying the rate of carbon fluxes thereby mitigating climate change. However, the focus of assessing the potentials for different vegetation on climate change mitigation has for so long been conducted outside cities, towns and municipalities. This study was conducted in Wilolesi and Ikonongo hills located in Iringa as representative of the Municipality forested hills in Tanzania to assess vegetation structure and their potential for climate change mitigation. Random sampling technique was employed to establish 20 rectangular plots of 20 m x 40 m (0.08 ha) in each hill to determine plant species composition, richness, diversity, vegetation structure and above ground carbon (AGC). R-statistical software was used to compute Shannon-Wiener diversity indices, species richness and the above ground carbon. Results indicated high species diversity ranging from 3.5 to 4.1 for Ikonongo and Willolesi hills, respectively based on Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H’). We recorded 255 plant species (114 tree species, 51 shrub species, 2 sedge species, 66 herb species, 15 grass species and 7 climbers) in 60 families. Based on Important Value Index (IVI), Brachystegia spiciformis Benth (10.435) and Julbernardia globiflora Benth (4.555) were important species in Wilolesi and Ikonongo forested hills. There was a significant difference on the AGC between Ikonongo (3.12 t/ha) and Wilolesi (8.33 t/ha) (t = 1.83, p = < 0.004). Results have an implication for dedicating more efforts on the management of forest landscapes for biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation and provision of other ecosystem services. It is recommended that there should be detailed study for all forested hills in Iringa Municipality for proper forest management initiatives.
The impact of land use and land cover change on biodiversity within and adjacent to Kibasira Swamp in Kilombero Valley, Tanzania
(WILEY, 2017-09-06) Seki, Hamidu Ami Jr; Shirima, Deo D Jr; Mustaphi, Colin J. Courtney Jr; Marchant, Rob Jr; Munishi, Pantaleo K.T Jr
Wetlands are crucial ecosystems with multiple values and functions to a range of different stakeholders. The future of wetlands depends both on the legacy of the past and how they are currently used. Using 48 vegetation survey plots (0.08 ha) combined with Landsat 5 and 7 TM imagery, we assessed the influence of longterm (1990–2011) land use and land cover change on the biodiversity of the Kibasira Swamp. Information on perceptions of adjacent communities on historical changes and drivers for the changes were also collected. Results showed an increase in the area covered by open water by 1% and forest by 4% between 1990 and 1998 whilst Cyperus papyrus L and cultivated land area decreased by 8% and 3%, respectively on the same period. Between 1998 and 2011, there was a decrease in areas covered by water by 35% and forest by 9% whereas C. papyrus L increased by 40% and cultivated land increased by 8%. These changes have affected the biodiversity of the swamp and adjacent to it as numbers of mammals have declined. However, the Swamp still provides extensive habitat for plants and bird species despite the ongoing human pressure. Interventions may be necessary to maintain biodiversity in Kibasira Swamp to ensure sustainable ecosystem services.
The Impact of Road Accidents to the Community of Iringa Municipality: Challenges in Reducing Risks
(hipatia press, 2016-11) Haulle, Evaristo; Kisiri, Marwa
This paper examines impact of Road Accidents on community socio-economic activities in Iringa municipality. It assumes that accident as any disaster adversely affects people, property and environment. The paper employed questionnaire, interview, observation and documentary search for data collection. The study found that road accidents on-site conditions were caused by poor infrastructure, overloading of vehicles, law impunity, inadequacy of relevant laws, corruption, negligence of drivers, lack of road safety education and road traffic signs. Road accidents caused loss of lives, increase of dependence, destruction of property, increase of poverty, injuries and permanent disabilities. Provision of training to drivers, serious enforcement of the laws, provision of education to road users through public agitations, posters and television broadcasts, introduction of ad hoc inspection of road quality and transport facilities were some of the techniques used to curb the risk. Generally, road accidents caused a great loss of human, physical and natural resources. The intervention is on on-site conditions while very little attention is put on the root causes. It is recommended that, in addressing this human induced disaster the government in collaboration with other stakeholders should focus on the root causes in a participatory manner to bring community equity hence sustainable development.
Indigenous and Scientific Evidence on Climate Change Effects on Cereal Crops Production in Semi-arid Areas of Central Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2021-11) Myeya, Helena E
Changes in temperature and rainfall have been reported at both local and global level with negative influence on crop yields. This article attempts to investigate the effects of climate change on cereal crops in semi-arid areas of Dodoma region, Tanzania. To achieve the research objectives, mixed method research approach under cross-sectional design was used. A total of 366 heads of households and 36 key informants were involved in this study. The study further used archival data on rainfall, temperature and crop yields of maize, sorghum and bulrush millet for the past 27 years (1984 to 2011). Simple linear trend analysis and Mann-Kendall test were used to establish and test for rainfall, temperature and crop yield trends. Linear regression analysis was applied in establishing the relationship between climate variables and crop yields. Findings from this study reveal increased temperature and reduced rainfall and crop yields as perceived by smallholder farmers and verified by archival data. Results for both minimum and maximum temperature indicate significant increased trends (p=0.000, p=0.000) respectively. Conversely, non-significant decreasing trends for rainfall were noted for Bahi, Mpwapwa and Dodoma stations (p=0.505, p=0.911, p=0.474) respectively. The findings on correlation analysis indicate both positive and negative influence of temperature and rainfall on cereal crop yields. The study concludes that, climate change has impacted cereal crop yields in the study area calling for implementation of more viable adaptation strategies in order to reduce the adverse effects of the changing climate. The study recommends on the use of more drought tolerant crop varieties of cereal seeds that can suit the changing climate
Land Resource In Tanzania: Whose State, Whose Resource?
(Redfame Publishing, 2015-11-11) Haulle, Evaristo
This paper assesses land resource in Tanzania in relation to ownership, access and control for livelihood and development. The ownership of state and resources impacts the community stability and development. The paper employs political ecology approach to analyze the state of art in relation to land. In-depth interviews, Focus Group Discussions and Literature review were employed to establish historical trend in relation to conflicts and contradictions that exist in resource management. The paper advances that, since 1895, Tanzania has undergone a number of land reforms. Since then, principles of land tenure have not changed. This resulted to conflicts over land which occurs in different forms and scale. After independence, land was dispossessed in the name of national/or public interest to establish National Parks, agricultural projects and other projects that did not respond to internal demands. After the failure of the projects such land was not returned to the users. Moreover, Tanzania has formulated a number of laws to facilitate accumulation. These include commodification of land that raised its demand hence second scramble. About 16 Acts were enacted annually since 1990 to fulfil the demand that caused the rise of the question whose state. Both Tanzania and Mozambique inherited colonial systems of natural resource management and ownership which continue to inform the current practice. The state apparatuses are the agents of accumulation. The situation will be tense in future if not addressed now.
Linking School Environment to Geo Disaster Risk Reduction for Sustainable Development in Tanzania
(2015-06-01) Haulle, Evaristo; Rugumamu, William
The paper reflects on the need for linking Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) and school environment which is necessary for preparing students to relate disasters to development. The study was based on a review of school curriculum, questionnaire monitoring, focus group discussions and observation. Data were analysed by content and SPSS software. Findings revealed that Education Development Plans overlooked earthquake risk in designs and locations of buildings while the curricula inadequately internalise DRR approaches. In conclusion DRR is not intimately linked to school environment and hence the need for strategically developing comprehensive curricula and enhance participatory schools management for sustainable development.
Livestock Management Strategies in a Changing climate in Rombo District, Tanzania
(2017) Fundisha, Evarist
Livestock are important socio-economic assets essentially kept for food, manure, income, bride prize and prestige. This study was conducted in Rombo District to assess the effectiveness of livestock management strategies in a changing climate. Triangulation of the methods of data collection, analysis and presentation facilitated production of comprehensive research report. The study found that about 94 percent of the heads of household used different strategies to reduce the impact of climate change and variability on livestock. The devised strategies include fodder fetching, planted fodder, store fodder, keeping manageable livestock, and livestock keeping avoidance. The constraints to strategies used in livestock-keeping were risks associated with pasture fetching, lack of funds, denying farm supply of manure, and loss of households’ assets. The projected climate change and variability would have less effects on livestock keeping because about 66.7 percent of the heads of household had plans on it. For effective livestock management in a changing climate, appropriate strategies are recommended.
Local Community Perceptions on Causes of Climate Change in Dry Areas of Rombo District, Tanzania
(2019-09) Fundisha, Evarist
The study assessed community perceptions on the causes of climate change in the drought area of Rombo District in Tanzania. Corroboration of the research findings were made by employing different methods of gathering data including questionnaires, focus group discussions and interviews. While quantitative data were analysed by statistical package for social science software to generate descriptive statistics, qualitative data were analysed thematically. Data were mainly presented by using tables, figures and the participants’ narrations or voices. Results indicated varied perceptions on the causes of climate change that are shaped by levels of education, age, sex, marital status and possession of communication facilities. Despite the varied perceptions on the causes of climate change, the anthropogenic factors were frequently mentioned by the study participants. Thus, the study recommends on creating awareness among members of the studied community through education on the actual causes of climate change for effective intervention measures.

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