This study investigated local knowledge of fishermen in weather prediction in Moa and Kwale coastal villages,
Tanzania. Focus group discussions, seasonal calendars, time line analysis, key informant interviews, questionnaire
surveys and documentary reviews were used to gather data. The SPSS programme was used to analyze quantitative
data while qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Fishermen were found to observe the behaviour of sea
water, plants, fish species, sea worms, marine mammals, terrestrial animals, amphibians, human beings, birds, insects,
sea rubbish, moon, clouds, rainbow, sun, sea sand, stars and sky, to predict weather change in their localities. Of the
many weather parameters mentioned, wind and rainfall were regarded as the most important weather parameters
to consider when planning for fishing expeditions. It was also noted that the majority of fishermen are aware of climate
change through long term observation of local weather patterns in their localities. Fishermen were found to be
able to predict typical weather conditions and productivity seasons throughout a year. However, despite the usefulness
of local prediction, this important knowledge is challenged with a number of issues that threatens its existence.
The study recommends various approaches to strengthen and sustain the effectiveness of local weather prediction.