Drought in Zimbabwe

With "the worst drought since 92" Apon us, there is a lot of chatter in the country about what to expect. Those who farmed through the 1992 drought will tell you about the devastation, and the concerns facing what's to come for 2024.

1991-1992:

During the 1992 drought, maize crop production decreased by almost 75%. The domestic maize intake for 1992 was basically just enough for two days of food for the nation. It also resulted in the death of over 1 million cattle. Water shortages forced the shutdown of many industries and schools. Zimbabwe, once known as the “breadbasket of Southern Africa,” suddenly found itself importing food. The economic repercussions were profound. Agricultural revenues plummeted, affecting livelihoods and national stability. The vibrant fields turned barren, echoing the desperation of those who depended on them.

• Zimbabwe's average annual rainfall is generally about 670mm, the average over the rainy season from 1991-1992 was a mere 115mm.

The drought’s impact wasn’t uniform across the country:

• Matabeleland and Masvingo provinces bore the brunt. These regions witnessed livestock suffering and crop desolation. The arid landscapes stretched endlessly, mirroring the despair of farmers.

• Midlands, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland West, and Mashonaland Central also grappled with the drought’s wrath. Communities in these areas faced water scarcity, failed harvests, and a bleak future.

El Nino 2015-2016:

Zimbabwe received only 75% of its typical annual rainfall, with the "dryer areas" receiving less than 100mm of rainfall, compared to the normal range of 450-650mm.

A state of drought disaster was declared on February 4th, 2016, prompting a humanitarian appeal for $1.5 Billion as malnutrition rates were soaring to 5.7%. The most affected sectors were food & nutrition, agriculture, water, education, health and wildlife.

• 80% of the population is dependent on rain fed agriculture.

El Nino 2023-2024

Zimbabwe anticipates challenging rainfall conditions in the coming year, necessitating preparedness and adaptive measures to mitigate the impact on livelihoods and food security. This begs the question of what can be done to better our situation during this time?

What to do?

Conservation Agriculture (CA) is a sustainable farming system that prioritizes soil protection and productivity. Its key principles include minimizing soil disturbance, maintaining permanent soil cover, diversifying plant species, and optimizing input use. By adopting CA, farmers can safeguard their land, improve soil quality, and sustainably produce food.

Climate Change Adaptation Projects in Zimbabwe: The project “Building Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Livelihoods in Southern Zimbabwe” aims to enhance resilience and improve food security for smallholder farmers. It focuses on irrigation schemes, climate-resilient agronomic practices, and localized innovation platforms. Zimbabwe strives to adapt to climate change and protect livelihoods.

Small Grain drought tolerant crops: Small grains like sorghum, pearl millet, and finger millet play a crucial role in adapting to climate change. They are drought-tolerant and well-suited for hot regions with limited rainfall. By embracing small grains, Zimbabwean farmers can enhance resilience and sustain their livelihoods.

Short season crop varieties: Crops like short season maize varieties and nutrient rich sorghum are a good option.

In-field rainwater harvesting technologies commonly used in Zimbabwe and Sub-Saharan Africa include planting pits, contour ridges with infiltration pits, tied ridges, fanyajuu, and zai pits. Farmers adopt permanent or semi-permanent structures, but labor requirements hinder adoption. These strategies significantly improve crop yields. Integrating rainwater harvesting with soil fertility management is effective. Local evaluation of modified planting pits (tumbuzika) is essential for success in smallholder farming. Policy formulation is crucial for climate change adaptation through in-field rainwater harvesting.

Livestock Management Strategies:

• Health and Performance Records: Maintain detailed records of livestock health and performance. Use this information to make informed decisions, especially if culling animals becomes necessary.

• Grouping of Grazing Animals: Group livestock based on nutritional needs. Properly feed each group and assess their body condition scores.

• Weaning Calves and Lambs: Wean young stock promptly to allow mature females to maintain better body condition.

• Selling/Destocking Livestock: “Pregnancy check” all heifers, cows, and ewes. Cull non-productive animals to reduce herd size. Keep desirable younger stock for maintaining genetics.

• Vaccination and Deworming: Ensure all livestock are vaccinated, dipped, and dewormed before the drought arrives.

Range Management Strategies:

• Supplemental Feeding: Stockpile supplementary feed before prices rise and feed becomes scarce. Start supplementary feeding early to prevent animals from becoming too thin.

• Budget Properly: Allocate funds for supplementary feed and other essential resources.

• Grass Collection: Cut and store grass in old containers (e.g., baths) for use during the drought.

• Monitor Forage Recovery: As the drought persists, focus on forage recovery to sustain livestock.

• Genetic Preservation: Prioritize keeping the best genetics in your herd or flock.

Remember that drought planning involves a combination of proactive measures, adaptive responses, and close monitoring. Collaborate with local agricultural extension services and follow guidelines specific to your region to enhance resilience during droughts.