Local governance and climate change adaptation: evidence from Monduli and Longido districts, Tanzania

Abstract

Implementing climate change adaptation strategies (ICCAS) remains a continuing challenge at the local level, where governance dynamics are critical. This study examines how key governance practices, responsiveness (RES), accountability (ACC), transparency (TP) and stakeholder participation (SP), influence the implementation of climate change strategies (ICCAS) in Local Government Authorities (LGAs) in Tanzania. Grounded in Good Governance Theory (GGT), the study employed a convergent parallel mixed-methods design. Survey data were collected from 351 committee members, while qualitative data were gathered through 20key informant interviews (KIIs) and 6 focus group discussions (FGDs). Quantitative data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM), and qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The results revealed that all four governance practices significantly influence implementation, with SP emerging as the most influential factor. The study concludes by recommending the institutionalization of ACC mechanisms, strengthened participation of indigenous groups, improved stakeholder coordination, enhanced TP through open data sharing and proactive RES. These findings offer practical guidance for strengthening governance in local climate change adaptation efforts.