“If only it would rain”: Farmers’ perceptions of rainfall and drought in semi-arid central Tanzania

Farmers in semi-arid East Africa prioritize drought as their major productivity-reducing problem, while scientists identify soil degradation as a major threat. The question that needs to be addressed is how farmers perceive drought. Insight into farmers’ perceptions of drought could be the missing link towards increased and sustainable production. During the period from 2004 to 2006, a study was conducted in Goima Ward, Tanzania. The study included questionnaires with mainly open-ended questions (N=120), in-depth interviews, group discussions, field visits, picture assignment and 1-day seminar with farmers, extension workers, government officials, and scientists. Farmers saw drought in a broader perspective than that of deficient rainfall. Drought indicators were area-specific. Farmers recognized differences in drought vulnerability between soil types, location and state of land, land management practices and farmer types. Farmers perceived an increased drought risk. Farmers’ perceptions can be related to the scientific concept of agricultural drought. Since the amount of rainfall cannot be influenced, the efficiency of the rains can be a focal point for addressing farmers’ concerns about drought. Any viable strategy to reduce farmers’ vulnerability to drought and to improve productivity should be integrated into farmers’ existing strategies to adapt to and cope with ecological insecurity.