Drought Coping Strategies and Their Effectiveness: The Case of Ward 12 in Mberengwa District Zimbabwe

Abstract

The study was carried out in Mberengwa Ward 12, which is characterised by erratic and inadequate rainfall. Drought frequency is very high occurring at a rate of four in every five years. The main purpose of this research was to establish the drought coping strategies that are in place and to establish their effectiveness. The data was collected from informants through questionnaires, group discussions and special interviews with key persons. Drought coping strategies which were identified included responses to production, consumption, food storage, income generating assets and livestock management. External assistance from the Government, NGOs and migration complimented these strategies. From the results it is recommended that there is need to develop effective coping mechanisms based on risk minimization such as utilisation of indigenous food sources and growing of drought tolerant crops not only in this ward but in other areas with similar environment and climate.