| Issue/Objective |
Tanzania is one of the most heavily targeted countries in the global land rush. In recent years, the framing and promotion of large-scale land acquisitions (LSLAs) as a development model is fuelling an alarming resurgence of dispossession of small holder farmers. With intensifying climate change, this land-based inequity has further deepened socio-economic and health vulnerabilities in agrarian communities. Despite extensive literature on LSLAs, there is limited understanding of the health risk faced by smallholder farmers following land dispossession. This study explores the migration routes of individuals displaced by the dual effect of LSLAs and climate change, examines how this form of migration serves as disembodiment from environmental spaces, and its related human health risks. |
| Methodology/Approach |
This study integrates a systematic literature review on LSLAs and community health conducted between May and August, 2024, with a primary study in Dar es Salaam. For the primary research component, an interdisciplinary approach will be employed, integrating a community-based research design with political ecology, and socio-ecological determinants of health theoretical perspectives. Data collection is planned this coming summer, and will use mixed methods to specifically explore migration patterns after land dispossession, dynamics of migrants' ecological embodiment, and associated health risks. |
| Results |
The study, especially the systematic review component shows diverse findings on the impact of LSLAs on community capitals, health and wellbeing. The most prominent impacts include environmental disruption, erosion of social capitation and relations, and weakening of local participation in community governance, which all contributes deepen the health and well-being challenges of affected communities. |
| Discussion/Conclusion |
This study findings confirm that while LSLAs can often short-term benefits, there are many long-term health consequences, including the degradation of local environments and embodied socio-ecological spaces. A more comprehensive view of the psychosocial health impacts of LSLAs and how displaced individuals embody their migratory routes will be important addition to the literature. This will provide support for policymaking undertaken by those working on global health, as well as contribute to efforts at building resilience among climate induced migrants, especially smallholder farmers, thereby promoting health equity. |
| Presenters and affiliations |
Jordyn Moreno Queen's University |
