Resilience or reinvention? Rethinking Maasai pathways to sustainability in changing climate conditions in Kilosa and Mvomero, Tanzania

Venance  Shillingi; Bethsheba Sakinoi

doi:10.51867/asarev.2.1.17

Auteurs-es

Venance Shillingi Mzumbe University, Tanzania Auteur-e https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8162-615X
Bethsheba Sakinoi Mzumbe University, Tanzania Auteur-e https://orcid.org/0009-0005-9241-2911

DOI :

https://doi.org/10.51867/asarev.2.1.17

Mots-clés :

Climate Change, Community Engagement, Diversification, Indigenous Knowledge, Pastoralism, Resilience

Résumé

Pastoralists in Sub-Saharan Africa face challenges from climate variability, environmental degradation, and socio-economic changes. The Maasai of Tanzania adapt their traditional lifestyles to modern challenges, yet understanding their resilience is limited by rapid ecological and policy shifts. This study examined diversification, indigenous knowledge, community involvement, and government policies in supporting sustainable livelihoods. Using the Portfolio Theory of Risk and Resilience Theory, a mixed-methods approach combined quantitative analysis via PLS-SEM with qualitative data from interviews and focus groups. The target population comprised 386 individuals from 13 Maasai villages across Kilosa and Mvomero. Yamane’s formula was used to get a sample size of 130 respondents. Results showed 82% of respondents engaged in income activities beyond pastoralism, and 99% valued indigenous knowledge for adaptation. Community participation was the strongest factor influencing sustainability (β = 0.635, p < 0.05), mediating the effects of diversification and indigenous knowledge. Government support was positive but limited due to low awareness and inconsistent application. Qualitative data reinforced these findings, highlighting the community's desire to blend tradition with innovation amid challenges such as limited access to credit, training, and inclusive decision-making processes. The study concludes that Maasai resilience is rooted in cultural traditions, social cohesion, and local institutions. It recommends inclusive diversification, protection of Indigenous knowledge, stronger community governance, and clearer policy communication to support sustainable pastoralist livelihoods.

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