Community perceptions on climate change and its impacts on malaria transmission in South-eastern Tanzania

Malaria transmission is highly sensitive to climatic variability, as changes in temperatures and rainfall, directly influence mosquito breeding, survival, and parasite development. Extreme climatic events, such as flooding, further exacerbate malaria risk by disrupting access to preventive, diagnostic and treatment services. However, there is limited evidence on how communities in malaria-endemic settings perceive and respond to the health impacts of climate variability and change. This study explored community knowledge, perceptions, and practices related to the relationship between climate variability and malaria transmission in south-eastern Tanzania.

An explanatory mixed-methods cross-sectional study was conducted in malaria-endemic villages in south-eastern Tanzania. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 384 community members, while qualitative data were obtained through 11 key informant interviews and 12 focus group discussions involving 72 participants. Survey data were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed thematically.

Among survey respondents, 86% reported experiencing climate-related changes, including altered cropping seasons, increased flooding, and a perceived rise in vector-borne diseases. Approximately two-thirds (67.5%) recognized a link between climate change and malaria transmission. Perceived vulnerability was high, with 59.5% reporting increased risk of vector-borne diseases and 70% indicating higher malaria occurrence during the rainy season compared to the dry season. Access to timely climate and health information was limited, as only 26.6% regularly received updates, despite 96.6% expressing a desire for such information. Findings from focus group discussions and key informant interviews corroborated these perceptions and highlighted the need for targeted community awareness and education on climate-related malaria risks.

Community members demonstrated awareness of climate change and its perceived impacts on malaria and livelihoods. These findings highlight the importance of integrating community perspectives and local knowledge into climate-adaptation and malaria-control strategies to enhance locally relevant and community-centered resilience.