Smallholder Farmers’ Perceptions on the Usefulness of Local Knowledge in Improving Water User Rights in Kiru Valley Tanzania
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26437/ajar.31.10.2022.10Abstract
Purpose: This paper intended to investigate why local knowledge (LK) is becoming an important aspect of water management in semi-arid basins to increase crises of water user rights around the world, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Design/Methodology/Approach: The paper adopted a cross-sectional research design to make sense of the existing situation. Data were collected using qualitative methods. A sample size of 70 water users was involved in the study. Triangulation of research methods was used to collect qualitative data. Qualitative data were summarized using content analysis while quantitative data were summarized using SPSS.
Findings: The results showed the presence of LK has an influence on water use in the valley. The local community in the valley was unable to show up its all influence because of formal water institutions. The formal and LK institutions were interlinked in their operations. However, the local community elders were unable to resolve water conflicts because of not recognized by the formal water institutions. Concerted efforts are needed to build the capacity of the local community in ensuring water user rights.
Research Limitation: The limitation of this study was the unavailability of the community elders and the language barrier e.g., Iraqw affected the data collection and analysis of the study.
Practical Implication: The study will bring new knowledge to formal and informal water institutions that can help smallholder farmers to use water effectively and wisely.
Social Implication: The perceived information is useful for policy makers and other key actors in formulating effective institutions to engage the local community in water management.
Originality/Value: This is a relevant study that seeks to develop a locally based institutional framework to enhance water user rights in the valley.
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