An over-reliance on rain-dependent agriculture coupled with the effects of climate change has been considered one of Tanzania’s greatest challenges to poverty reduction and alleviation. The rainfall patterns in Tanzania over the past two years (2021-2022) have been below average; causing a severe drought. The most affected regions are the northern-eastern and central regions (UNOCHA,30 /12/2022). Due to the drought, crop harvests have reduced drastically, pasture for livestock has become scarce and water availability for both domestic and livestock use is very limited. Prices of staple foods have been rising progressively due to the dry weather conditions; diminishing access to food for the poorer sections of the population, leading to food insecurity in many households. The populations at greatest risk are those that are dependent on rain-fed agriculture, as their livelihoods are highly exposed to climate change.
ACT Tanzania forum led by the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania (ELCT) will respond to the drought emergency in Tanzania through Rapid Response Fund by supporting 6,000 persons with food and nutrition in three villages in Mwanga district of Kilimanjaro region, Northern Tanzania.
