Climate Change Impacts on Coastal Livelihoods and Ecosystem-Based Adaptation in Pangani District, Tanzania

Climate change poses significant challenges to coastal livelihoods and ecosystems in Pangani District, Tanzania. This study assessed community perceptions of climate change, its impacts on livelihoods and coastal resources, and the implementation of Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) measures. A cross-sectional research design was employed in the villages of Mkwajuni, Pangani Magharibi, and Ushongo. Data were collected through household surveys, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, field observations, and climate records obtained from the Tanzania Meteorological Authority. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis. The findings revealed widespread perceptions of declining rainfall (90–98%) and increasing temperatures (80–90%), which were supported by meteorological data indicating long-term rainfall variability and a gradual warming trend. Chi-square results showed significant associations between climatic variables (rainfall and temperature) and key climate change impacts on livelihoods, particularly drought, flooding, saltwater intrusion, forest decline, and agricultural productivity (p < 0.05). Communities have responded through various EbA measures, including irrigated agriculture, adoption of certified seed varieties, mangrove restoration, establishment of Beach Management Units (BMUs), rainwater harvesting, deep wells, natural aquifers, fisheries ecosystem restoration, agroforestry, and the use of coconut residues as alternative energy sources. In conclusion, Pangani District is increasingly experiencing climate change impacts characterized by declining rainfall and rising temperatures, which are undermining livelihoods and coastal ecosystems, while communities are progressively adopting EbA measures to enhance resilience. This study recommends scaling up EbA initiatives, strengthening institutional capacity and integrating ecosystem restoration to enhance climate resilience in Pangani District.