The Influence of Climate Variability on the Watermelon Production in Zanzibar

Climate change and variability, has embarked societies in Zanzibar to rely on horticulture (i.e. watermelon production) as an adaptive measure due unpromising situation of commonly used agricultural yields. Currently, there is either no or scant information that describes the influence climate changes variability production Zanzibar. Thus, this study aimed determine quantity The both primary secondary datasets, which include anecdotal collected from interviewers’ responses four districts Unguja Pemba, parameters (rainfall, maximum minimum temperature (Tmax Tmin) acquired Tanzania Meteorological Authority (TMA) at offices. Pearson correlation was for analyzing association between parameters, while paired t-test applied show significance mean differences two periods 2014-2017 2018-2021, respectively. Percentage were feature extent investigated affect each other. sorted, calculated monthly seasonal averages, plotted then analyzed. Results have shown a strong (r = 0.8 p ≤ 0.02, r 0.7) production, Tmax rainfall during OND, especially Unguja, well Tmin JJA - 0.02) Pemba. Besides, results existence significant means parameter stated periods, indicating highly affects by enhancing declining yields 69% 162% 17% 77%, Moreover, respondents aware excess intensity dry can lead high costs number soil other environmental factors. Besides OND MAM had good with declined concludes production. calls more studies factors affecting (e.g. characteristics, pest sides manure), recommends based decision making rain fed routine monitoring weather information.