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| Assessing Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Household Vulnerability to Climate Change in Kaskazini (A) District, Zanzibar. |
Thaddeus I. Kiplimo & Makame O. Makame
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Abstract:
Climate change is a time ticking bomb that for far too long humanity has paid lip-service to its redress. The reverberating consequences have been causing devastating losses, driving inequalities and exacerbating vulnerabilities calling for prudent interventions. Addressing vulnerability requires quality information and although there is extensive literature on vulnerability to climate change globally, information on what influences household vulnerability from the socio-economic paradigm in Zanzibar is dearthful. This study sought to fill this void by investigating the socio-economic factors that influence household vulnerability to the impacts of climate change in Kaskazini (A) district, Zanzibar. The research adopted a descriptive research methodology with quantitative methods to collect data from household heads. Collected data were augmented with data collated from a review of documentaries and case studies. Findings reveal that due to low education and poor access to information, perceptions on climate change, variability, and its causes are daunting. Additionally, a higher household population that is dependent on natural resources and climate-sensitive sectors indicated a higher sensitivity to the impacts of climate change. Moreover, a lack of ownership of physical assets compromise the local's ability to secure loans and credit services to cushion themselves against climate-related shocks. In addition to low income, lack of safety nets and marginalization in decision-making characterize the island. This study recommends that investment in education, diversification of livelihoods as well as easing access to livelihood assets is necessary. To complement this, climate change information should be made accessible, in a timely and inclusive manner.
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