Assessment of Gendered Responses to Social-Ecological Stressors among Fisheries Dependent Communities in Lindi Municipal, Tanzania

Assessment of Gendered Responses to Social-Ecological Stressors among Fisheries Dependent Communities in Lindi Municipal, Tanzania

Fisheries-dependent communities in developing countries face fluctuations in fish catches and market prices. Climate change and human pressures such as increasing fishing pressure, population growth and destructive fishing practices exacerbate existing social-ecological stressors. Men and women in these communities play different roles and have varying access to resources, shaping their responses to stressors. 

This study, conducted in Mchinga I and Mchinga II villages in Lindi Municipality, examined socio-ecological stressors, household impacts and response strategies of men and women. Using mixed research approach, data was collected from 120 household surveys, 17 key informant interviews, and observations with 95% men respondents.

The findings identified adverse weather conditions, decline in fish catches, market price fluctuations, rising costs of fuel and equipment as key social-ecological stressors. These led to economic challenges such as increased debts and business difficulties. Socially, these stressors have contributed to criminal activities like theft, robbery, family disruptions, and food insecurity. Health implications are also evident, with fishermen facing accidents, chronic health issues, and cases of poisoning, while seaweed farmers are at risk from poisonous marine organisms. 

 In response to these challenges, both men and women in Lindi municipal adopted various livelihood strategies to sustain their households. Men often prioritize migrating to new fishing areas and adjusting fishing techniques, while women focus on petty businesses like vending buns, snacks, and fruits. Women often rely on savings and loans from informal associations but face obstacles such as limited income, capital, and household responsibilities, which limited their economic flexibility.

Generally, most households relied on short-term solutions rather than addressing root problems. To enhance their adaptive capacity, it is crucial to improve their access to various livelihood assets, such as loans, education, and employment opportunities. This would enable them develop more effective strategies to adapt to social-ecological changes.