Strategising Resilience: Economic Diversification as a Catalyst for Sustainable Livelihoods among the Maasai in Kilosa and Mvomero, Tanzania

Abstract

Pastoralist communities in sub-Saharan Africa are increasingly threatened by climate change, land degradation, and shifts in socio-economic conditions, which undermine traditional livelihoods such as transhumant livestock herding. Among the Maasai of Tanzania, these pressures have prompted a greater focus on economic diversification as a strategy to build resilience. This study examined how economic diversification enhances resilience and supports livelihoods among Maasai households in the districts of Kilosa and Mvomero. Drawing on resilience theory and the portfolio theory of risk and return, the research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modelling (PLS-SEM) with qualitative insights from interviews and focus group discussions. Findings reveal that over 82% of respondents engage in alternative income-generating activities beyond pastoralism, such as small-scale farming, trade, and tourism. Quantitative analysis reveals a significant positive relationship between economic diversification and community engagement (β = 0.177, p = .030), as well as an indirect effect on livelihood sustainability mediated by community engagement (β = 0.112, p = .033), which leads to the rejection of both null hypotheses. Qualitative insights further emphasize the importance of inclusive community structures and highlight barriers such as limited capital, skills training, and market access. The study concludes that economic diversification, when supported by strong community involvement and responsive policies, provides a practical path to resilience and sustainable livelihoods for pastoralist communities. Policy suggestions include expanding vocational and entrepreneurship training, improving rural infrastructure, and increasing access to microfinance, all of which are adapted to local needs through participatory, community-led methods.