Participatory mapping of environmental resources: A comparison of a Tanzanian pastoral community over time

Community geographic features change over time, and this change can be contentious. Understanding social responses to this change is important for policies related to adaptation to climate change. This paper examines the use of participatory mapping of resources, at two time points, in a Tanzanian community. The results of our mapping (May 2015) were compared to those by a report by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (2009). Differences included boundaries, land use designations and accessibility. These discrepancies may reflect actual changes in resources and livelihoods over time, but also differences in researcher trust and the enabling of participants. Findings suggest that repeated participatory maps, conducted in a trusting environment, are required for long-term planning in places experiencing both climate and social change.