Ethno-Scientific Strategies to Cope with Climate Change Adopted by Dakamela Small Holder Communal Farmers in Nkayi District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

Zimbabwe is currently grappling with a climate change dilemma characterized by erratic rainfall patterns and extreme temperature fluctuations. These climatic challenges have detrimental repercussions on the rural populace, primarily dependent on rain-fed agriculture for their sustenance. To mitigate the socioeconomic ramifications of climate change in rural areas like Nkayi District, Zimbabwe, the focus must shift towards implementing climate change adaptation measures aimed at bolstering agricultural productivity amidst fluctuating weather conditions. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the utilization of ethno-scientific knowledge, commonly referred to as indigenous knowledge systems (IKS), by smallholder communal farmers in the Dakamela area of Nkayi District as a means to adapt to climate change. The key strategies currently adopted by farmers include dry planting, crop diversification, early planting, livelihood diversification and cultivation of drought-tolerant crops. The study adopted a qualitative study design and was conducted during the 2022/2023 rainy season from November 2022 to April 2023. The study period was intentionally selected based on Zimbabwe's rainy season to investigate and identify essential ethno-scientific strategies employed by district farmers to address climate change. The paper advocates for policymakers and climate change experts to incorporate the indigenous knowledge held by local communities into the formulation and execution of climate change adaptation and mitigation initiatives in rural areas like Dakamela.