Farmers’ adaptation strategies for coping with cyclones effects in Zimbabwe.

David Murata

Bachelor's thesis

Abstract:

In recent years, cyclones have been a significant concern within sub-Saharan Africa, particularly along the Zimbabwe-Mozambican belt. The Chikukwa community, located on the Eastern part of Zimbabwe has also been a victim as it also suffers the ravages of these recurring cyclones. The community’s vulnerability to these events has also been accentuated by the land characteristics such as rugged and slopy terrain. The main objective of the study was to investigate how the small-holder farmers are coping with the recurring cyclone shocks in Chikukwa community. In addressing these, a quantitative design was adopted, and data were collected using questionnaires through face-to-face interviews. 105 respondents were interviewed from the population database of 150 survivors of March 2019 cyclone Idai. The results indicated a slight difference in the response rate of 51.40% and 48.60% for males and females, respectively. Descriptive statistics showed that 65.70% reported having experienced 1 to 3 cyclones in their lifetime. The destruction of roads has had a significant cyclone impact, with a 100% response rate, while crop field damage and vandalism of houses have 78% and 71%, respectively. Traditional adaptation strategies such as planting vetiver grass and stone terracing have been highly implemented as they were found to fit these mountainous areas firmly. Moreover, mobile phones and radios were reviewed as the primary sources of cyclone information. The main significant recommendation include advocacy by policy makers for more funds to be allocated towards improving already existing traditional adaptation strategies through extension workers and the capacity building of these extension workers in the field of sustainable agriculture.

Keywords

adaptation, cyclones, climate, smallholder, Zimbabwe

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 20. 4. 2024

Thesis defence

• Date of defence: 30. 5. 2024
• Supervisor: Ing. Ing. William Nkomoki, Ph.D.
• Reader: Lutangu Andrew Litia, MSc.

Czech University of Life Sciences Prague

Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences

Bachelor programme:
International Cooperation in Agricultural and Rural Development