Understanding climate smart agriculture and the resilience of smallholder farmers in Umguza district, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Climate smart agriculture has enhanced the viability and sustainability of smallholder farming in Umguza District of Zimbabwe. This study documents how smallholder farmers in Umguza District have responded to the adverse effects of climate change by venturing into small grains production, conservation farming and small livestock production. This paper discusses the vulnerability of smallholder farmers in Umguza District to climate change induced risks. The vulnerability profile is followed by an exposition of the resilience strategies used by the farmers to mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, the paper considers how the government institutions and development agencies can mainstream the adoption of climate smart farming technologies. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches as methods of data collection, data were gathered through five key informants, and 30 in-depth semi structured questionnaires. This study suggests that government institutions and development practitioners should intensify resilience-building programmes, conduct climate awareness programmes and avail funding to improve the acceptance of CSA practices among smallholder farmers in Umguza and the rest of Zimbabwe.