Traditional Utilization of Aquatic Resources in Eastern Arc Catchments of Tanzania

Abstract

Aquatic resources are vital for human well-being particularly to rural communities that largely depend on them for livelihood. Currently, it appears that pressure from human activities related to utilization has impacted negatively on catchment management, particularly of the aquatic resources. This study focuses on the aquatic resources found in the Eastern Arc Catchments of Tanzania which include Upper Zigi and Lower Mngeta. The study employs catchment community participatory mapping approach so as to elucidate how man interacts with and modifies the aquatic environment, the impacts of their behavior, and the responses to changes which occur. The aim of the research is to realize a more comprehensive understanding of water resource management from a cultural, social, economic, political, and biological perspective and facilitate sustainable socio-hydrological interaction model. The study found that there are some similarities and differences in aquatic resources management and utilization among communities. Also, it established that there are more aquatic resources in Lower Mngeta catchment than in Upper Zigi catchment. The study found out that the manner of utilization of aquatic resources depends on their availability, levels of skills, knowledge, and beliefs among members of the communities of the catchments. It was also found that the traditional cultural structures that regulated aquatic resource utilization are weakening at an alarming rate due to factors such as modernization and the establishment of the formal institution. Weak traditional structures contribute in many ways to mismanagement and destruction of aquatic resources. The study recommends that ecological database should not only focus on the resources stock, but also on the dynamics of resources utilization. This would lead identification of appropriate local actors with knowledge and skills and cultural advantage who can be involved in planning and management of these important resources. It would also help to reverse the negative impact already experienced, promote sustainable practices and eventually guarantee the availability of adequate aquatic resources for the present and future generation.