Abstract:
Watersheds and rivers are vital ecological features for the provision of hydrological
services for the health, welfare and prosperity of human communities. Nevertheless,
anthropogenic activities coupled with climate change and climate variability are blamed
for degrading watersheds and rivers and decreasing their capacity to irrigate. To address
the situation, it is important to understand why and how water shortages are occurring.
This paper reports findings of a study carried out to identify and assess drivers of water
shortages and adaptation strategies to climate change and variability in Pangani River
Basin of Tanzania. To assess the influence of climate change and variability on hydrological
flow and water shortages, time series data on rainfall and temperature were compiled
from the Tanzania Meteorological Agency. We also used structured questionnaires to
collect data on villagers’ perceptions about the drivers of water shortages and adaptation
strategies. Results indicated a decreasing trend of water flow (p < 0.05) at Kikuletwa–
Karangai gauging station along Pangani River Basin. Trend analysis indicated a slight
decrease of rainfall and increase of temperature. Although there is no empirical evidence
to associate climate change with the decline of rainfall and water flow, adaptation
measures need to be put in place in order to mitigate against increasing climate variability,
reduced water flow, and projected climate change. Therefore, watershed conservation
strategies should also focus on improving the welfare of local communities. Additionally,
involvement of stakeholders in the entire PRB is crucial toward watersheds conservation
for steady flow of hydrological services.
