Goat Rearing for a Resilient Future: Enhancing Climate Adaptation among Smallholder Farmers in Umguza District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The agriculture sector is pivotal for the income and livelihoods of rural populations in the Global South, particularly in arid regions where small-scale livestock farming has emerged as a viable source of sustenance and economic stability. This study explores the potential of subsistence goat farming to enhance climate resilience among smallholder farmers in Umguza District, Zimbabwe. Data were gathered through 15 face-to-face interviews, eight key informant discussions, and two focus group sessions, with participants selected with the assistance of local leadership. The findings reveal that climate change vulnerability stems from erratic rainfall patterns, the failure of rain-fed agriculture, pervasive poverty, social inequality, limited access to extension services, and the impact of HIV/AIDS. Consequently, smallholder farmers face acute challenges including food insecurity, water scarcity, and livestock loss. Goat farming has been identified as a crucial strategy for building resilience, particularly because goats demonstrate higher survival rates than cattle during drought conditions. However, farmers face significant barriers, including lack of start-up capital, access to high-quality breeds, and insufficient information regarding disease management. The study emphasizes the need for further investigation into the effectiveness of subsistence goat farming as a climate adaptation strategy, advocating for community-led initiatives that integrate traditional knowledge, local resources, and social structures. By prioritizing community-based resilience efforts, smallholder farmers can develop tailored strategies to effectively combat the challenges posed by climate change in Zimbabwe.