Whose knowledge matters in climate change adaptation? Perceived and measured rainfall trends during the last half century in south‐western Tanzania

Abstract

Parts of eastern Africa have experienced substantial climatic variability and extremes during the last few decades. Here we explore the extent to which local place‐based knowledge is used and is relevant to understanding and appropriately responding to place‐based climate variability and change (specifically rainfall) in an area of considerable rainfall variability in south‐western Tanzania. Primary data were collected using focus group discussions and household questionnaire surveys, and secondary data obtained from government institutions. Various changes associated with the frequency, intensity and consistency of rainfall during the period 1960 to 2014 are explored. Findings indicate that knowledge and perceptions associated with climate operate at a local level, and that these are not necessarily applicable to neighbouring regions. Smallholder farmers in the Great Ruaha River Sub‐Basin rely on incremental adaptations of agricultural practices, in response to climatic stresses which have long‐term implications. We argue that incremental adaptations ought to be supplemented by more transformative changes of existing agricultural practices, such as using more climate‐adapted crops and livestock. Moreover, caution is required when examining human perceptions and responses to climate variability and change at the site‐specific scale, as such findings may not necessarily be applicable to broader regions in all cases.