ICGLST25: INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GOVERNANCE, LEADERSHIP AND SOCIAL TRANSFORMATION
PROGRAM FOR FRIDAY, JUNE 27TH
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09:00-10:30 Session 8: Sciences, ICT, Education, Management and Sustainable Development
Location: Main Hall
09:00
The State of Digital Access in South African Township Schools – Identifying advantages, barriers and interventions

ABSTRACT. Digital access remains a critical enabler of educational equity and economic participation, yet significant disparities persist in South Africa’s township schools. This qualitative study conducts a systematic review of existing literature to assess the current state of digital infrastructure, usage, and policy frameworks in these underserved educational environments. Findings reveal that while initiatives like the National Broadband Policy and private-sector partnerships have improved connectivity in some areas, systemic barriers—including uneven infrastructure, high data costs, inadequate teacher training, and socioeconomic inequalities—continue to hinder effective digital integration. The study identifies key advantages of digital access in township schools, such as enhanced learning resources, improved student engagement, and exposure to 4IR skills. However, infrastructural deficits, load shedding, and device shortages remain major obstacles. By analyzing successful interventions in comparable contexts (e.g., Rwanda’s digital education reforms and Kenya’s mobile learning solutions), this paper proposes a multi-stakeholder intervention framework involving government, NGOs, and telecom providers. Recommendations include subsidized device programs, localized digital content development, and teacher upskilling initiatives to bridge the digital divide. The study contributes to policy discussions on inclusive digital education in South Africa and similar emerging economies.

09:15
Barriers influencing the effective adoption of virtual evaluation in the public sector: A case study of South Africa

ABSTRACT. Virtual Evaluation (VE) has emerged as a valuable tool in public sector monitoring and evaluation (M&E), offering opportunities to enhance efficiency, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. The increasing emphasis on digital transformation in South Africa has led to growing interest in integrating VE into public sector evaluation processes. Despite this interest, there is limited empirical research on the factors that influence its adoption, particularly in government institutions responsible for M&E. Existing studies primarily focus on the benefits of VE, with little attention given to the challenges public officials face in implementing it effectively. This study aims to investigate the barriers affecting the adoption of VE in South Africa’s public sector. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study draws insights from workshops hosted by the South African Monitoring and Evaluation Association (SAMEA), a survey with public sector officials, and key informant interviews with senior government evaluators. The Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Institutional Theory guide the research, which helps explain the technological and organizational dynamics influencing VE adoption. Preliminary analysis suggests that successful VE implementation depends on factors such as technological readiness, institutional support, and regulatory alignment. The study explores challenges related to digital skills, infrastructure, policy clarity, and stakeholder engagement, highlighting areas that require targeted interventions. Based on the findings, the study recommends capacity-building programs to improve digital proficiency among public officials, investment in infrastructure to support VE platforms, and policy frameworks to standardize and institutionalize VE across government departments. By addressing these challenges, public institutions can enhance the effectiveness of M&E practices and leverage digital innovations for improved governance. This study contributes to the evolving discourse on digital transformation in M&E, offering practical insights for policymakers, evaluators, and researchers working to advance evidence-based decision-making in South Africa’s public sector.

09:30
The relationship between community project planning and sustainability of rural water supply projects in Kasese Distric

ABSTRACT. This study was about the relationship between community project planning and sustainability of rural wa-ter supply projects in Kasese District. The study adopted the Embedded Mixed methods design which entails collec-tion of both quantitative & qualitative data. The total sample of respondents were 398 whose response rate was 99.5%. The questionnaire, interview guide and focus group discussion guide were instruments of data collection. The findings were that there was a positive correlation coefficient (0.1869) between community project planning and sus-tainability of rural water supply projects which was statistically significant with a p-value of 0.0002. Further, in terms of regression analysis, it was revealed that community project planning has a positive and significant impact on sus-tainability, with a coefficient of 0.1101 and a p-value of less than 0.001 (***) although the magnitude of this effect is relatively modest. In conclusion, community project planning was positively correlated with sustainability, but its impact was weaker than expected, with a correlation coefficient of 0.25. This indicates that while community project planning is essential, gaps in execution reduce its direct influence on sustainability outcomes. The study recommends that strong community involvement and empowerment in various aspects of rural water supply planning and man-agement should be upheld for rural water supply sustainability; and rigorous community mobilization should be done by all stakeholders in the water supply chain on payment of water user fees in a bid to sustain the rural water supply projects. Further, there should be strengthening of community project planning where community-based initiatives should enhance the capacity of water management committees to develop more robust and inclusive planning pro-cesses. This involves setting clearer goals, addressing risk factors, and involving diverse stakeholders from the onset of the project.

09:45
Does going digital matters in communicating corporate social responsibility? A systematic review approach

ABSTRACT. The way companies communicate their CSR commitment is critical for organisational success and legitimacy, particularly in the age of new media. Corporate websites, social media accounts, and other interactive platforms are just a few of the ways that businesses are embracing the new digital technologies and communicating their policies and responsible initiatives. To comprehend the justification for utilizing digital media to communicate corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, the methodology incorporates metrics from technological innovation and CSR. The results from systematic reviews have indicated that stakeholder engagement and the perceived usability and ease of use of online media for CSR disclosures are important for business development. More so, the ability and benefits of new media to have two-way, participatory interactions with stakeholders, and thereby create additional value for firms and stakeholders, makes it essential. These findings suggest that companies should prioritize transparency and interactivity in their digital communications to foster trust among stakeholders. By effectively harnessing online platforms, organizations can enhance their reputation and demonstrate a genuine commitment to social responsibility, ultimately leading to stronger relationships with their audience. This study concludes by suggesting that CSR communication is more effective when it is easily accessible online.

10:00
Towards A Cyber Secure and Ready Community: A Poverty Line Assessment Model

ABSTRACT. The transition from traditional business models to digital models, supported by technological advancements and unforeseen global natural hazards such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, has increased the vulnerability of businesses to cyber threats. Organizations, particularly in Uganda, face rising cyber risks but often lack the knowledge, skills, and resources to assess their cybersecurity readiness. Uganda ranks first in Africa and 40th globally in cybercrime, with financial losses escalating significantly over the years. Despite the urgency, organizations struggle with the absence of standardized cybersecurity readiness assessment mechanisms. This qualitative study examined cybersecurity practices among corporate organizations in Kampala, focusing on banks, telecommunications, insurance, and energy sectors. A purposive sample of 50 cybersecurity experts provided insights through interviews, complemented by a literature review. Findings revealed varying levels of cybersecurity maturity, with some organizations having structured security frameworks while others lacked essential measures, increasing their vulnerability to cyber threats. The absence of a standardized cybersecurity readiness assessment mechanism was a key challenge. The study underscores the need for a structured framework to evaluate and enhance cybersecurity preparedness in Ugandan corporate organizations. This paper presents a Cybersecurity Poverty Line (CsPL) model, a mechanism to assess their level of readiness in terms of cyber security, by evaluating their cybersecurity posture, mitigate risks, and enhance resilience against emerging threats.

10:15
The influence of cybersecurity self-efficacy on educators’ cybersecurity behaviour in resource-constrained South African Schools

ABSTRACT. Since schools are embracing the use of information communication technologies for data management, curriculum delivery and administrative tasks, they are increasingly becoming custodians of increased amount of data and personal information for several stakeholders including learners, parents, and educators. However, the integration of technologies in schools has exacerbated their vulnerability to cyber-attacks with under privileged schools being more susceptible. Educators' confidence as they use the cyberspace is, therefore, crucial as they are centrally located to ensure cyber safety in schools and to provide cybersecurity guidance to both parents and learners. There is, however, paucity of knowledge on cybersecurity confidence of educators as they use the internet. This study seeks to answer the question: What is the influence of self-efficacy on the cybersecurity practices and behaviour of educators in resource-constrained schools? The study employed a qualitative exploratory case study methodology. We collected data for the study through semi-structured interviews of four schools in the Western Cape and Limpopo provinces, regarded as affluent and resource-challenged provinces in South Africa respectively. Using the Self-Efficacy Theory, the findings indicate that educators in resource-constrained schools have a low cybersecurity self-efficacy which negatively affect their cybersecurity behaviours and practices. Further, educators tend to have deceptive self-efficacy caused by ignorance which leads to negligent use of the cyberspace. They tend to share their devices and passwords with the misconception that no one in their context has the technological competence to cause them harm in the cyberspace. To ensure high cybersecurity self-efficacy for educators, the study recommends that cybersecurity training should be part of teacher educator curriculum and continuous cybersecurity training and awareness should be provided for practising educators in resource-constrained schools.

10:30-11:00Tea Break: Mary S Nantumbwe/ Ms. Lamulah Nangendo
11:00-13:00 Session 9: Law, Governance, Environment, Gender, Leadership
Chair:
Location: Main Hall
11:00
Promoting good governance in the African Public Sector, The role civil society as a Watchdog

ABSTRACT. Corruption, maladministration, nepotism, and poor accountability have reached unprecedented levels across the African continent, which has consequently impeded the successful and adequate provision of public services and hampered socio-economic development. Undeniably, the entrenchment of civil society is pivotal for democratic purposes and the consolidation of beneficial governance. By strictly examining the available and relevant literature on and benefits of the increasing participation of civil society groups in Africa’s governance and their overall impact. Whether civil society in Africa has contributed extensively to promoting good governance, what is clear is that there is increasing involvement of civil society in governance issues relating to transparency, upholding the rule of law, human rights and the fight against corruption. The study also uncovered that the increase in the participation of civil society organisations will have a positive impact on governance, as they will act as watchdogs to ensure the governments are effective and serving the needs of the public. Going forward, it will be imperative for civil society to work hand in hand with democratically elected governments not only to fight corruption and promote good governance but also to ensure that socio-economically and by extension politically, the African countries are heading in the right direction.

11:15
When the goalposts seem to be constantly shifting: a conceptual exploration of the performance management of academic talent

ABSTRACT. Numerous changes such as the growth in tertiary student numbers due to the inclusion of more previously excluded social groups, the shift from teacher-centred to student-centred education, as well as the rapid advancement of technology, have resulted in the evolution of the academic profession in contemporary times. Traditionally, the role of an academic primarily revolved around teaching, and research, with academics often having been able to further choose their preferred trajectory either as a teaching or research academic, depending on their strengths. Using a conceptual, systematic literature review approach, this paper delves into issues concerning the evolution of the academic profession within the last 15 years (2010 – 2025) and how these have affected the performance management of academics. The paper further highlights the fundamental aspects required for the success of contemporary academics. For instance, the findings revealed that while contemporary academics are evidently overstretched with various responsibilities within and outside their institutions, their performance speaks differently on paper due to inefficient workload allocations and ineffective performance review systems. The paper contributes to limited research concerning the effective performance management of academic talent.

11:30
Exploring the Origins of the Modern Scientific Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Field: From Historical Practices to a Modern Academic Discipline

ABSTRACT. The modern monitoring and evaluation (M&E) has its roots in historical practices that have evolved over time. Understanding these origins is essential to recognize how M&E has become a distinct academic discipline. Therefore, this study aims to trace the origins of the modern M&E field of study, from early M&E training practices to contemporary M&E studies. This is accomplished through a thorough, qualitative, and systematic historical and current printed and online literature analysis. The main finding is that prehistoric records documenting M&E training in Ancient African societies are scarce, given that they were mainly not formalized in books and libraries, as in Western societies, M&E was taught in Ancient Africa through traditional methods, including one-on-one tutoring and mentoring. These training methods enabled experienced and skilled older members of the community or family to effectively pass on their knowledge and practical skills (i.e., trade) to younger generations. In contrast to current Western training methods, which often focus on mass education in large physical or online classes that emphasize the acquisition of certificates or qualifications, the M&E training process in ancient African societies was more personal and allowed for intergenerational transmission of skills and trades. Most importantly, the expertise of naturally gifted older individuals who trained the younger generation was demonstrated by the quality of work rather than by their possession of university or school qualifications, as is often the case in Western culture.

11:45
Exploring community involvement in Thaba-Bosiu, Lesotho and its impact on quality of life through tourism development

ABSTRACT. Tourism development is critical to the economic development of any nation. Tourism increases not only the national income but also the quality of life (QoL) in communities where these attraction centres are located. This study explores the connection between community involvement and quality of life through tourism development in Thaba-Bosiu, Lesotho. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with forty participants, selected from twelve villages of Thaba-Bosiu. The participants included employees of tourism attractions, accommodation owners and community members. Content analysis was employed to interpret the collected data. The findings indicated that the community holds positive perceptions of tourism development and its impact on their overall quality of life. The community members highlighted the socio-cultural and economic benefits of tourism development in Thaba-Bosiu. However, planning oversights can adversely affect tourism development, leading to inadequate materials, lack of finances, and insufficient social costs that hinder future growth. Therefore, this study recommends promoting various tourist attraction centres across Lesotho to promote tourism for the economic and social benefit of the communities.

12:00
Visionary Leadership and Sustainable Economic Growth of African Countries: A case of Tanzania

ABSTRACT. Visionary leadership is a key driver of sustainable economic development, particularly in emerging economies like those in Africa. This paper examines the relationship between visionary leadership and long-term economic transformation, with a particular focus on Tanzania. It explores how different leadership styles, policy decisions and governance structures contribute to economic stability, innovation and inclusivity. Furthermore, the study evaluates global and African trends, theoretical foundations, research gaps and empirical evidence that illustrate both the achievements and obstacles associated with visionary leadership in promoting economic sustainability.

12:15
Engendering Leadership Positions in Public Services in Tanzania. A Case of Ilala Municipal and Mbinga District Council

ABSTRACT. This study sought to document proposed solutions to discrimination in leadership positions against women in Tanzania. Interviews, semi-structured questionnaires, and review of literature were used for data collection. A total of 232 respondents were selected from Ilala Municipal and Mbinga District Councils who were obtained through Yamane’s (1967). The Statistical Package for Social Solutions (SPSS) version 20 was used to analyze quantitative data while content analysis was used to analyze qualitative data. The study revealed several solutions to women’s discrimination on leadership positions that include prohibition of early marriages (below 18 years), equal treatment during upbringing, for higher education, during recruitment and selection, rules and policies should be clearly informed and equal opportunities in existing processes and structures. The study offers several recommends. First, at the family, equal treatment to both male and female children is needed. Second, schools administrations have to work hand in hand with parents to cement gender equality at care taking stage. Third, organizations need to have clear processes and structures ranging from recruitment to appointments/selection of administrative leaders. Fourth, incorporate issues of gender equality in school curriculums and fifth, awareness creation on gender issues and rights to the citizens is a cornerstone for the attainment of gender equality in all sphere of life.

12:30
The Importance of Personal data in Improving E-Governance in Uganda

ABSTRACT. ABSTRACT Research problem: In Uganda today, e-governance is a powerful tool that is used in the transformation of governance structures and fostering socio-economic development. By enabling governments to collect, process, and analyze personal data, e-governance systems can improve service delivery, streamline decision-making processes, and enhance public engagement. Moreover, personal data contributes to improving accountability, and increasing transparency. However, the rights to privacy and data protection in Uganda have been placed at risk by the emerging technological processes. Therefore, although the e-governance is being a vital tool for the future of better public services, successful participation, and good governance, there is still an important need to ensure personal data protection and privacy of data subjects. The integration of personal data into e-governance must balance privacy concerns and data security challenges. Purpose - This article will examine the role that personal data plays in improving e-governance in Uganda. Methodology - A desk research method will be adopted which will involve the use of both primary and secondary sources Findings – tentatively, it is estimated that the article will reveal that the Ugandan Government strategies have considered the e-governance as a priority that would lead the Country to economic development. However, the information system in Uganda needs improvement and there is a need to foster inter-institutional cooperation for the secure information system. Although the e-governance is a vital tool for the future of better public services, there is still an important need to ensure personal data protection and privacy of data subjects. Implications - Although a substantial body of literature has developed in recent years in the area of e-governance, there is the need to understand how data protection and privacy legal frameworks contribute to enhancing e-governance practices while safeguarding individual privacy rights and promoting trust in government-citizen relationships. Originality/Value - By examining the role of personal data in improving e-governance, this article offers the perspective that has hitherto been insufficiently addressed and provides recommendations for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders to navigate the complexities of digital governance in a responsible manner.

12:45
Improved Opportunities and Obstacles to Development Capacity Building Status Quo: Experience from Mtaa Committees in Kahama Municipality

ABSTRACT. Improved Opportunities and Obstacles to Development (Improved O&OD) was introduced to cater to the need to foster community participation in community initiatives at the grassroots levels of local government authorities (LGAs). However, Mitaa/Village leaders must adequately manage and implement improved O&OD in development projects. Few studies have assessed Mtaa Committees in terms of their capacity to implement the enhanced O&OD in community development projects. The improved O&OD requires skilled implementers, which is the focus of this paper. The study examined the improved O&OD training development programs and its implementation to Mtaa Committees to inform evidence-based management practices. Kahama Municipality in Shinyanga Region was used as a case study. A mixed research approach was used in data collection and analysis. Non-probability and probability sampling were used to select 8 participants and 55 respondents, respectively. Interview guides, structured questionnaires and documentary review checklists were used as data collection tools. The findings show that capacity building for Mtaa Committees needs to be more adequately conducted. The training needs assessment was not performed, and the actual training programs for mobilizing improved O&OD have inadequately been provided to Mtaa Committees; hence, there is limited knowledge on lobbying, mobilizing, and leadership in implementing improved O&OD. The study recommends to re-think the training approach of the Improved O&OD. While capacity-building programs are mandatory for all mtaa committees to ensure smooth implementation of the programme, the Local Government Training Institute (LGTI) responsible for producing council facilitators should be strengthened.

13:00-14:00Lunch Break: Mary S Nantumbwe/ Ms. Lamulah Nangendo
14:00-16:00 Session 10: Law, Governance, Environment, Gender, Leadership
Location: Main Hall
14:00
Corruption: The Cancerous tumor in Uganda’s Security Sector Performance

ABSTRACT. Globally, the vice of corruption has remained a painful scourge on the development of all countries but particularly those in the developing world by undermining consolidation of democratic benefits. In the security sector, corruption has proved detrimental to peace and security by fueling conflicts rooted into patronage allocation of resources. Indeed, countries decimated by corruption tendencies in the security sector are among the least peaceful countries in the world. Corruption undermines public confidence in institutions meant to deliver services and meet security needs and compromises efficiency of the security forces. Despite efforts at both national and international levels, corruption has deeply penetrated the security fabric of countries in the developing world; weakening the security forces and leading to public resentment against incumbent governments and enabling a rise in non-state security sector players such as terrorists and rebel groups. Against this background, this paper examines how endemic corruption has affected the performance of the security sector in the developing world with particular reference in Uganda. It uses the rational choice theory to demonstrate how well-planned corruption is, driven by intensions of acquiring personal gain. The paper concludes that the performance of the security sector cannot be efficient, timely and responsive unless there are deliberate efforts against corruption.

14:17
Supply chain management and performance of manufacturing companies in Uganda: a survey of storage management

ABSTRACT. Storage management is a critical component of supply chain management that significantly influences the performance of manufacturing companies. Efficient storage systems enhance inventory control, reduce operational costs, and improve lead times, ultimately contributing to better financial performance. However, many manufacturing firms in Uganda struggle with inadequate warehousing facilities, poor inventory tracking, and limited technological integration, which negatively impact their competitiveness. Despite the recognized importance of storage management, there is limited empirical research on its specific role in Uganda’s manufacturing sector. This study seeks to bridge this gap by examining the relationship between storage management and the performance of manufacturing companies. The main research question explores the extent to which storage management contributes to firm performance. Using a cross-sectional research design and a mixed-method approach, data was collected from 82 respondents through surveys and key informant interviews. The findings indicate that storage management accounts for 67.1% of the variation in manufacturing company performance, emphasizing its significance in operational efficiency. The study concludes that companies should integrate warehouse management into their strategic planning and invest in automated inventory systems to enhance productivity. These insights are valuable for policymakers and business leaders aiming to optimize supply chain management for sustainable growth in the manufacturing industry.

14:34
Enhancing research productivity through effective management support in higher institutions of learning: the case of Clarke International University and Nkumba University, Uganda

ABSTRACT. Ultimately, research supervision is pivotal in enhancing the Research Supervision Management (RSM) framework, contributing to the timely completion of research. Currently, there are challenges in research supervision and progress tracking in Ugandan Universities, leading to inconsistent and suboptimal evaluation methods and strained relationships between supervisors and the supervisees. The study aimed to gather data-driven information to foster the implementation of a research supervision management system to address the gaps in research supervision, improve research output, and streamline the academic research supervision process in higher learning institutions. Before the implementation of the RSM system, a feasibility study of the RSM was done among faculty and students. The study employed a cross-sectional method using a quantitative research approach among 30 participants. Participants were purposively selected, and they comprised research supervisors, supervisees, and administrators/managers. Results showed that the majority of the participants (71.4%) preferred the RSM to manual research tracking, challenges included delayed feedback from both parties (71.4%); hence low completion rates, when asked about how Universities manage and track research progress currently, common tools and feedback methods used was email (57.1%), current management of research includes spread sheets (66.7%). When asked about the key metrics to be tracked by the RSM system the majority indicated progress tracking and research output (80%), students’ progress and completion rates (80%), feedback; where the majority preferred automated feedback and reminders (71.4), and (85.7%) preferred written feedback. Participants expect to interact with the RSM fortnightly (57.1%), and (74.1%) indicated they would be comfortable with the RSM if implemented. The implementation of the RSM is therefore paramount and requires concerted effort from the University management and the different stakeholders to ensure sustainability of the RSM system.

14:51
The absorptive and adaptive capabilities of informal traders: the role of mobile phones

ABSTRACT. Informal traders make significant contributions to every economy, especially those with low incomes. This study investigated the absorptive and adaptive of informal traders, with a specific focus on the role of mobile phones. Data was collected from 34 respondents in Windhoek, Namibia, using a qualitative case study approach. The findings revealed that mobile phones significantly enhance the adaptive capabilities of informal traders by providing business flexibility in online marketing, enabling easy communication with customers and suppliers, and allowing for business transactions without limitations of space and time. Mobile phones also help informal traders gain external knowledge through stock control and innovation. In terms of absorptive capabilities, mobile phones assist in maintaining contact, identifying new market needs, and facilitating knowledge acquisition and sharing, which ultimately strengthens absorptive capabilities. The study recommends providing mobile phones to informal traders at a reduced cost to potentially enhance their business prospects. The study contributes to a better understanding of the adaptive and absorptive capabilities of informal traders in urban environments in emerging economies.

15:08
Uganda’s forest conservation framework across the legal implications of common but differentiated responsibilities

ABSTRACT. The common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR) principle is essential to world environmental justice. However, peripheral countries such as Uganda have found it challenging to transplant these principles of CBDR to domestic law. This article examines Uganda's legal implementation of CBDR principles in forest conservation, using Mabira Forest as a case study to analyse the intersection between sustainable conservation goals protected by international legal frameworks against the domestic need to finance daily livelihoods through the agricultural sector. The selection of Mabira Forest, which is subject to multiple sources of recurrent conflict due to enclaved communities’ economic activities against conservation reserve boundaries, is a critical case study to assess Uganda’s compliance with CBDR equity obligations through a regional comparative analysis of forest conservation regimes in East Africa. Drawing from regional jurisprudence, the article proposes concrete legal reforms to enhance the implementation of CBDR principles in Uganda's forest conservation framework. These findings contribute to broader discussions on how developing countries can effectively translate international environmental principles into actionable domestic legal frameworks and address the competing norms between sustainability and economic development

15:25
The Role of Dietary Education in Fighting Severe Malnutrition among Women of Reproductive Age and Under-Five Children in Njombe Region, Tanzania.

ABSTRACT. Malnutrition is a serious public health problem affecting the lives of Tanzanians particularly women of reproductive age and children below five years of age hence bringing adverse impact to human capital, economic productivity and national. The problem is attributed by poor dietary practices. Dietary education is among the recommended measures; despite its importance, studies have shown that people are still unaware of dietary diversity, especially in the food-producing areas. Therefore, study covered gap by assessing the roles of dietary education in fighting malnutrition among women of reproductive age and under-five children in Njombe region. The study specifically focused into; the awareness on dietary uptake among women of reproductive age, available dietary education interventions in fighting malnutrition and the providers’ perceptions on dietary education towards elimination of malnutrition. A secondary source of data collection was employed in this study, where 15 relevant documents on malnutrition were reviewed. Purposive sampling technique was applied to select Njombe region as a highly affected region with malnutrition cases specifically in Ludewa District Council, Wanging’ombe District Council, and Njombe Town Council. The findings revealed that, there is low awareness among women at reproductive age towards fighting the severe malnutrition where women were busy with the farming activities from morning to evening while children given Irish potatoes and maize neglecting the other nutrients foods. It was recommended that, the dietary education is very important to the people to minimize malnutrition cases in areas with high production of various food crops like Njombe. The study findings will help to inform the decision-makers about the appropriate education interventions through the dissemination and development of policy briefs. Hence enables the government and other interventions to address severe malnutrition in the affected areas

15:42
Harnessing Indigenous Wisdom: Amplifying Climate Resilience in Tanzanian Coastal Fisheries Through Local Knowledge

ABSTRACT. As climate change intensifies, coastal communities in Tanzania are increasingly vulnerable due to their reliance on small-scale fisheries for food security, livelihoods, and cultural identity. Climate-induced stressors, such as rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and shifting marine biodiversity, pose significant risks to these communities and call for innovative, sustainable resilience strategies. This study investigates how indigenous knowledge (IK) within Tanzanian coastal communities can enhance climate resilience in fisheries, focusing on the integration of traditional practices, knowledge-sharing systems, and local governance in adapting to environmental shifts. Although prior research emphasizes science-driven approaches to fishery management, a gap persists in leveraging indigenous knowledge as a formal tool for climate adaptation in marine environments (Chilisa, 2019; Alexander et al., 2022). This research contributes by highlighting the adaptive potential of indigenous practices to create a more inclusive and resilient fisheries management framework. This study utilized a qualitative case study approach involving three Tanzanian coastal communities, Bagamoyo, Pangani, and Kilwa. Data collection consisted of 60 semi-structured interviews with fishers, community elders, and local governance leaders. Through these interviews, the study explored long-standing traditional practices, perceptions of environmental changes, and adaptive strategies employed to navigate climatic shifts. Complementing interview data, six months of participant observation provided insights into day-to-day fishing routines, conservation behaviours, and IK transmission through storytelling and communal gatherings. Secondary data analysis was conducted on historical fish catch records and climate reports to contextualize findings. Data were analysed using thematic coding and a grounded theory approach to uncover critical themes on indigenous adaptation strategies. The findings reveal that Tanzanian coastal fishers rely on a sophisticated body of indigenous knowledge for climate adaptation, including weather-based seasonal fishing, use of traditional ecological calendars, and local marine area closures to protect juvenile fish stocks. Observations showed that these practices are reinforced through local governance mechanisms, such as clan-based councils, which regulate sustainable fishing practices. Elders play a central role in preserving and transferring this knowledge to younger generations through rituals, community discussions, and hands-on mentorship. The study found that these adaptive practices are not only culturally significant but also highly effective in buffering against environmental variability, such as adjusting fishing zones based on the seasonal migrations of fish species. To strengthen climate resilience in Tanzanian coastal fisheries, the study recommends formal integration of indigenous knowledge into national fisheries management policies. Policymakers should first recognize IK as a valuable complement to scientific approaches by establishing partnerships between local communities and marine scientists. Such collaborations could lead to adaptive co-management models that respect both traditional practices and ecological requirements. Secondly, training programs should be developed for community leaders to become knowledge facilitators, bridging traditional insights with climate science to foster informed local decision-making. Finally, implementing community-led monitoring programs could support real-time data collection and adaptive management practices, providing a feedback loop to continually adjust to new climate challenges. By leveraging indigenous wisdom alongside scientific data, Tanzania can create a sustainable, inclusive framework for fisheries management that addresses both ecological resilience and socio-economic well-being.