Impacts of Salt Water Intrusion on Maize (Zea mays) and Rice (Oryza sativa) Production under Climate Change Scenarios in Bagamoyo District-Tanzania

Abstract

Salt water intrusion is a challenge on production of human staple foods Zea mays and Oryza sativa in the changing climate, along the global coastal zones. Information on how salinity affects these crops is essential in developing scientific mitigations for sustainable food production. This study was conducted to investigate salt water intrusion and its impacts on Zea mays and Oryza sativa production in Bagamoyo District, Tanzania. Soil and water samples were collected along 14 km of Wami River for determination of NaCl and pH. Direct observations, surveys and questionnaire protocols were used to collect socio-economic data. Along 14 km, soil pH average was 6.5 (acidic) while that of water was 8 (basic). Salinity was high within 5 km and then declined towards 14 km away. Zea mays and Oryza sativa declined from averages of 18 to 8bags/acre/crop season. The impacts of salinity were clear on farms within 5 km from the Ocean than at 14 km. Salt intrusion is associated with climate change along the Tanzania coastal zone. Agriculturists, environmentalists and policy makers must work jointly to mitigate SWI impacts in Changing Climate. These efforts will help to improve crop production and ensure food security and income of the people along the coastal zones.

Examining climate trends and patterns and their implications for agricultural productivity in Bagamoyo District, Tanzania

“…data showed that the southwestern and eastern parts are experiencing high precipitation decreases and temperature increases. In addition to affirming perceived droughts in the region, other studies have documented the alarming effects of climate change, including saltwater intrusion into estuaries and freshwater aquifers(Ligate et al, 2017), which has greatly affected the production of major crops such as rice and maize. The spatially explicit information on climate variables, trends, and patterns presented in this work provides an in-depth reference to guide communities in developing appropriate measures for adapting to the effects of climate change.…”