CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ON THE LIVELIHOODS IN UMZINGWANE DISTRICT, MATABELELAND SOUTH, ZIMBABWE

Authors: Michael Muroyiwa & Remigios V. Mangizvo

ABSTRACT

Umzingwane District in Zimbabwe has experienced recurrent drought which have had negative impacts on the communities. This study intended to establish the impacts of the drought situation on the communities, as well as suggest measures that could be employed to mitigate challenges.  The study was pragmatic in nature and it adopted mixed research method whereby it triangulated quantitative and qualitative methods. The study found out that households had reduced yield from their fields. Their livestock also perished from the effects of drought. Water sources dried up and women and girls walked long distances in search of water. Households also obtained water from unsafe sources; hence they were exposed to diseases such as cholera and diarrhoea. Levels of personal hygiene also dropped. The study recommends that households should grow drought resistant crops and short varieties.  They should reduce their herds as well as diversify their livelihoods by engaging in beekeeping and agroforestry.

Keywords: Climate change, drought, food insecurity, livelihoods, Umzingwane District

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