Social networks influencing climate change adaptations among smallholder farmers in Mvomero districts, Tanzania
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Date
2019
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Publisher
Mzumbe University
Abstract
This study investigated the influence of social networks on climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers in Mvomero District-Tanzania. The study used data from a cross-sectional survey of 200 smallholder farmers in Mlali and Mzumbe wards. This study adopted both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Questionnaires and focus group discussions were used as the methods of data collection. For quantitative data, the study employed descriptive analysis and probit regression model for analysis of the relationship of interest. The study used STATA13.1 to analyze the quantitative data. The study used content analysis for the qualitative data. The findings obtained from this study indicate that the dominant climate change adaptation strategies used by smallholder farmers in Mvomero District are changing planting dates or periods, the use of improved seeds and breeds, livestock diversification, diversification to non-farm activities, and crop diversification. Majority of respondents have strong ties within their social networks as up to 92% of the respondents have reciprocal ties. Moreover, friendship ties, strong ties, social network size, social network duration and group affiliation were found to influence different climate change adaptation strategies. In the light of the findings, it is reasonable to think that awareness raising on the benefits of social networks should constitute good agenda in agriculture policies formulation. These are essential tool which enable smallholder farmers to adapt to climate change. Therefore, policy makers should not only appreciate the influence of social networks on climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers but also provide an enabling environment for societies.
Description
A dissertation submitted to the faculty of social sciences in partial fulfillment of the requirements for award of the Degree of Master of Science in Project Planning and Management (MSc. PPM) of Mzumbe University
Keywords
Social networks, Climate change, Climate change adaptation strategies
Citation
APA