Stakeholder Utilization of Weather Information from Mazimbu Weather Station in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Abstract

Weather information is essential for weather-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, education, research, transportation, and environmental management. Despite its importance, evidence on stakeholder utilisation of localised weather information services in Tanzania remains limited. This study assessed stakeholder utilisation of weather information generated by the Mazimbu Weather Station in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania, to identify primary users, examine utilisation patterns, and evaluate factors influencing weather service use. A mixed-methods design was employed, using structured questionnaires administered to 60 respondents, key informant interviews with meteorological personnel, a review of the station visitor register, and field observations. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. The findings revealed that university students, university staff, and secondary school students were the primary users of weather information, with most users originating from Morogoro Municipality. Accessibility, convenient location, and quality consultation services were identified as the station's main strengths, while learning, field practical training, and research were the principal reasons for utilisation. However, inadequate meteorological instruments, limited technological capacity, a shortage of technical staff, and conditions in the surrounding environment constrained effective service delivery and broader stakeholder utilisation. The study concludes that the Mazimbu Weather Station provides valuable localised weather information, particularly for academic and educational purposes. Strengthening meteorological infrastructure, technological capacity, technical staffing, and stakeholder awareness would broaden utilisation beyond academia and support evidence-based decision-making across weather-sensitive sectors.