Changing livelihoods in the context of multiple stressors and implications for adaptation in the Kilombero Valley of Tanzania

Small-scale farmers are vulnerable to changes in climate and face challenges that affect their livelihoods. The recommended alternatives for adaptation are limited. Our study in Kilombero Valley has yielded results on the factors that impact livelihood vulnerability. Using a variety of methods such as household surveys, Likert scaling, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and direct field observations, we were able to gather comprehensive data. The study shows that the vulnerability and ability to adapt to changing circumstances among small-scale farmers depend on factors such as time, assets, and the type of income they generate. Most residents of Kilombero Valley face a range of challenges in their daily lives, including socioeconomic, political, technological, and health-related issues, which can all affect their household assets. The scarcity of resources, especially wetlands, which are crucial for livelihoods, has led to conflicts that are worsened by population growth, climate change, and politics. To ensure the sustainability of small-scale farmers' livelihoods, it is essential to address these conflicts and manage natural resources effectively. The policies, plans, and programs for adaptation in Kilombero fail to consider various long-term pressures. This is because the community and individual families have limited capacity to adapt, which makes some of the measures taken to combat climate and non-climate shocks ineffective or detrimental. Therefore, it is essential to exercise caution when designing solutions for multiple stresses in rural areas to prevent maladaptation.