Journal of Earth Science & Climatic Change
Open Access

Abstract

Tanzania, like other countries is impacted by climate change and climate variability. Floods and drought are the two major extreme climate events in Tanzania. In recent years (2009-2011), heavy rains accompanied with strong winds have left thousands of people displaced and without food. Heavy rains and floods have resulted into loss of life, livestock and crops; an increase in vector and water-borne diseases; food shortages, internal displacement, and increased disease transmissions, damage to properties, destruction of the environment and economy. On the other hand, six droughts have occurred between 1980-2008 where 7.96 million people were affected, resulting into famine, loss of life, crop failure, lower water availability and quality and electricity rationing. In the Kilimanjaro region, reductions of ice cap and reported glacier vertical retreat have been observed on Mount Kilimanjaro. During the past three to five decades, there has been a steady increase in temperature with decreasing water levels in Lakes in various parts of the country. Rise in sea levels has been experienced, with Islands of Maziwe and Fungu la Nyani been submerged due to rise in sea level. Among others, this paper describes climate change in Tanzania in detail and its impacts to natural ecosystems.

Biography

Julius D Keyyu is an expert on disease ecology and ecosystem and population health, and has a PhD from Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) in Tanzania. He is currently the Director of Research Development and Coordination at the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute (TAWIRI) in Tanzania. He is a Member of many international and regional Steering and Technical Committees. He has published more than 28 papers in reputed journals and more than 42 papers in conference proceedings.