In Tanzania, nearly 45% of people live under the poverty line. The majority depend on farming for food and income, which makes agricultural growth key to poverty reduction. But the effects of climate change are restricting growth in this sector. For example, fishing in Lake Victoria is a primary source of income for many families. However, recent studies reveal that over three-quarters of the lake’s native freshwater species are at risk of extinction as of climate change, overfishing, and unrestricted development. Food sources and livelihoods are threatened when the community cannot depend on a consistent supply of fish.

One Day’s Wages is partnering with Sustainable Investments and Development Initiatives (SIDI) to increase food security and income among fisherwomen in Sengerema District.  The project leverages women’s expertise in fishing while supporting them to adapt their knowledge to climate-smart methods of production.  Community members are contributing their time and skills to construct six fish ponds.  The 90 women selected as participants are learning to manage the ponds, harvest fish at regular intervals, sell at local markets, and plant fruit trees next to the ponds as an additional source of food and income.  Along with sustainable fish production, the women are learning about women’s rights, social equity, and climate justice.