A growing partnership between researchers and local communities is beginning to deliver practical responses to climate change and water scarcity challenges, following the implementation of the ICP Connect and Lab to Life international project.
Early results of the initiative were presented during a seminar at Mzumbe University in Morogoro, bringing together academics, students, policy actors and grassroots leaders to review findings from ongoing social science research.
The project is implemented through collaboration between University of Antwerp, Mzumbe University, Institute of Development Policy, Uganda Christian University and Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology.
Speaking at the opening, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic, Research and Consultancy, Proscovia Kamugisha, said the programme has strengthened national capacity in monitoring and evaluation through the Master’s Degree in Monitoring and Development Evaluation (MDME).
She said the shift towards linking research with communities is helping ensure that academic work responds directly to people’s needs instead of remaining theoretical.
Project coordinator Christina Shitima said involving communities in the research process has improved trust and produced solutions that are both practical and locally accepted.
Lucy Massoi said stakeholder engagement is critical in enabling communities to take ownership of development challenges, a move that also contributes to better policy outcomes.
A representative from Twaweza, Richard Temu, highlighted the use of animation techniques to engage communities, noting that the approach helps citizens move from passive listeners to active problem-solvers.
The seminar drew participants from Mvomero District Council, Wami/Ruvu Basin Water Board and TURUWASA, alongside local leaders from Turiani Division.
Field research presented by students showed how data-driven solutions are being applied at community level.
In Kilimanjaro Village, Kisala Ward, a weather monitoring device has been installed to track wind speed, humidity and river flow, helping provide early warning for floods.
In Lusanga Village, findings pointed to long-standing water shortages, unsafe sources and weak infrastructure.
Researchers proposed improved community-based water management, timely payment for services and simple household water treatment methods.
Closing the seminar, Acting Head of the Department of Economics, Robert Lihawa, said participatory research is key to delivering lasting impact.
As climate pressures intensify, such collaborations are increasingly seen as vital in building resilience and improving access to water in vulnerable communities.
