Climate change policy in Tanzania – is it needed?

Climate change and its implications on development in Tanzania should not be understated or ignored. Instead, discussions on our changing climate should begin with the recognition that climate change is undermining efforts to eradicate poverty. Yet, scientific complexities, jargon, uncertainties and debate have led to a general lack of understanding and confusion on how to address a changing climate, including policy prescriptions. This brief outlines some key findings with regard to the climate change policy framework (or the lack thereof) in Tanzania and provides recommendations for moving forward in a strategic manner. It takes the underlying assumption that climate change and its impacts can weaken development efforts in Tanzania and needs to be addressed with a more aggressive and strategic approach. Overall, it is clear that Tanzania would benefit from a well articulated stance on climate change, showing committed political will and support for climate change at the national level, as well as an understanding of its importance internationally