http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/37457 2013-05-20T00:25:08Z http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/48748 Title: Indigenous knowledge in seasonal rainfall prediction in Tanzania : a case of the South-western Highland of Tanzania Authors: Chang’a, Ladislaus B.; Yanda, Pius Z.; Ngana, James Abstract: This paper describes how farmers in the South-western Highland of Tanzania predict rainfall using local environmental indicators and astronomical factors. The perceptions of the local communities on conventional weather and climate forecasts were also assessed. The study was conducted in Rungwe and Kilolo districts in Mbeya and Iringa regions respectively. Participatory rural appraisal methods, key informant interviews and focus group discussions were used in data collection and the collected data was analyzed using Statistical package for social science. It has been found that plant phenology is widely used by local communities in both districts in seasonal rainfall forecasting. Early and significant flowering of Mihemi (Erythrina abyssinica) and Mikwe (Brachystegia speciformis) trees from July to November has been identified to be one of the signals of good rainfall season. The behaviour of Dudumizi bird has been singled out as one of the best indicator for rainfall. Both Indigenous Knowledge specialists and TMA experts have predicted 2009/2010 rainfall season to feature normal to above normal rainfall. Systematic documentation and subsequent integration of indigenous knowledge into conventional weather forecasting system is recommended as one of the strategy that could help to improve the accuracy of seasonal rainfall forecasts under a changing climate. 2010-01-01T00:00:00Z http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/48746 Title: Review of phytoplankton dynamics in tropical African lakes Authors: Ndebele-Murisa, Mzime R.; Musil, Charles F.; Raitt, Lincoln Abstract: This paper provides a synthesis of current knowledge on phytoplankton production, seasonality, and stratification in tropical African lakes and considers the effects of nutrient enrichment and the potential impacts of climate warming on phytoplankton production and composition. Tropical African lakes are especially sensitive to climate warming as they experience wide fluctuations in the thermocline over a narrow range of high water temperatures. Recent climate warming has reduced phytoplankton biomass and production in the lakes. A decline in the production of palatable chlorophytes and an increase in cyanobacteria has led to reduced zooplankton production and a consequent decline in fish stocks, all of which can be associated with the elevated water temperatures. This indicates that even moderate climate warming may destabilise phytoplankton dynamics in tropical African lakes, thereby reducing water quality and food resources for planktivorous fish, with consequent negative impacts on human livelihoods. Description: Article #64 2010-01-01T00:00:00Z http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/48604 Title: Decline of Kapenta fish stocks in Lake Kariba : a case of climate changing? Authors: Ndebele-Murisa, Mzime Regina; Mashonjowa, Emmanuel; Hill, Trevor 2011-01-01T00:00:00Z http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/46033 Title: Building adaptive capacity to cope with increasing vulnerability due to climate change : final technical report - Zimbabwe (30 September 2010) Authors: Mugabe, F.T.; Munodawafa, A.; Dimes, J.; Nanja, D.H.; Carberry, P. Abstract: The project objective was to develop educational curricula and research and extension competencies of present and future scientists to better assist farmers identify technology options that enhance their adaptive capacity to cope with risks and opportunities associated with climate change and variability. Research conducted by five PhD (two women) and four MPhils (one woman) students contributed to project outputs. Baseline data to describe cropping system and management under current climate variability and farmer perceptions about climate change across 4 districts of Zimbabwe and Zambia was collected and analysed. Indigenous knowledge of climate and indicators to seasonal conditions were also documented and compared with scientific forecasts. Seven workshops were held to educate farmers and extension agents on interpretation of the Seasonal Climate Forecast (SCF) and explore together its application in making cropping decisions. Management options in response to the SCF were then tested in participatory on-farm trials. Most smallholder farmers (at 3 of the 4 sites) were not aware of the existence of the SCF. However, in both seasons the farmers. prediction of seasonal climate was consistent with that from the meteorological department. Engaging smallholder farmers with SCF assists them in making investment decisions on crop management options and in particular, on-farm trial results showed that farmers could derive reliable and substantial benefit from the SCF in decisions related to fertility input levels. The project demonstrated that farmer uptake and use of SCF benefits from an extended participatory approach that provides timely access and interpretation of the SCF, experimentation, monitoring and a post mortem of results which enhances farmer ownership and adoption after the project. 2010-01-01T00:00:00Z http://idl-bnc.idrc.ca:80/dspace/handle/10625/44009 Title: Benefits and costs of measures for coping with water and climate change : Berg River Basin, South Africa Authors: Callaway, John M.; Louw, Daniël B.; Hellmuth, Molly 2009-01-01T00:00:00Z