Trust, climate information sources, and adaptation actions among frontline communities in Bukoba Municipality, Tanzania
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.51867/AQSSR.3.3.51Keywords:
Climate risk communication, trusted information sources, climate change adaptation, frontline communities, TanzaniaAbstract
Climate change continues to affect vulnerable communities, yet many frontline populations still receive climate risk information that does not effectively translate into adaptation action. This study examined the influence of trusted sources of climate risk information on adaptation actions among frontline communities in Bukoba Municipal, Tanzania. Specifically, the study identified trusted sources of climate risk information and assessed their influence on climate change adaptation behaviour. Guided by Berlo’s SMCR Model, the study employed a mixed-methods research approach involving 265 household respondents selected through multistage sampling and 14 key informants selected purposively. Quantitative data were collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics, while qualitative data were obtained through key informant interviews and analysed thematically. The findings revealed that government authorities (63.3%), climate experts (55.3%), and local community leaders (42.8%) were the most trusted sources of climate risk information. Trust was mainly attributed to perceived expertise, accuracy, and the ability to communicate information that reflected local realities. However, most respondents (58.5%) demonstrated low levels of climate change adaptation. Logistic regression analysis showed that trust in community members significantly increased the likelihood of undertaking adaptation actions (OR = 4.407, p = 0.031). The study concludes that while institutional sources remain important for disseminating climate risk information, trust embedded within community networks is more effective in promoting adaptation behaviour. The study recommends strengthening community-based climate risk communication by actively engaging trusted local actors through community meetings, local radio programmes, and participatory awareness campaigns to enhance adaptation among frontline communities.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Happines Kahumbya Joseph, Philbert Simon Nyinondi, Ester Ernest Mnzava (Author)
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