Implications of Climate Change on Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Production and Asset Ownership among Farmers in Kahama District, Tanzania

Abstract

This study delves into the impact of climate change on rice (Oryza sativa L.) farmers and their asset ownership in Tanzania's Kahama District, aiming to assess the specific challenges and risks posed by climate change and understand their implications for asset ownership. Employing surveys, interviews, and analysis of historical climate data, both quantitative and qualitative research methods were utilized. Five wards were purposively selected from the three councils constituting Kahama District. Two villages known for prominent rice production were specifically chosen from each ward. The sampling frame comprised household lists from the selected villages, with households serving as the sampling unit. A total of 312 households were randomly selected as the sample size from the study villages. Statistical analysis of quantitative data was performed using SPSS and Excel software, while qualitative data underwent thematic analysis procedures. Findings revealed that climate change significantly impacts rice production, leading to reduced crop yields due to alterations in temperature and rainfall patterns. The majority of respondents (80.1%) were immigrants born within the district but outside the study villages, drawn to the better agricultural climate in the study villages. A significant proportion (73.7%) cited unfavorable climate as the primary reason for leaving their previous hamlets. Analysis of data from the Tanzania Meteorological Agency (TMA) highlighted varied decreases in annual and monthly rainfall during the rainy season, with distinct years exhibiting extreme values. Additionally, the study identified a trend of increasing annual average minimum temperatures and decreasing annual average maximum temperatures. However, farmers faced challenges related to water scarcity, irrigation issues, market conditions, and production costs, impacting their revenue and profitability. Adaptation strategies employed by farmers included water-saving techniques and diversification of income sources. Limited access to financial resources, education, and market opportunities further intensified farmers' vulnerabilities. Thus, to enhance farmers' resilience and safeguard their asset ownership in the context of climate change, targeted interventions are necessary. These interventions should address issues such as improved access to financial resources, knowledge-sharing platforms, and market linkages. The study contributes valuable insights to the existing body of research on climate change's effects on agriculture, providing policymakers and practitioners with crucial information to formulate effective strategies and policies for supporting farmers in Kahama District and similar contexts.