Journal Articles
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Browsing Journal Articles by Author "Chisadza, Bright"
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Item Evaluating the spatiotemporal dynamics of agrometeorological droughts in semi-arid Gwayi agroecosystems (1990–2020) using multiple indices(Taylor & Francis, 2024-10-10) Chisadza, Bright; Gwate, Onalenna; Musinguzi, Simon PeterClimate variability poses a significant threat to smallholder farmers in the Gwayi catchment, Zimbabwe. This study investigated the spatiotemporal dynamics of agrometeorological droughts from 1990 to 2020 using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI), Vegetation Condition Index (VCI), and Vegetation Health Index (VHI). The triangulation of these indices provided a comprehensive understanding of drought dynamics. Severe to extreme drought events were identified in 1995, 1998, 2005, 2016, 2018, and 2020, while moderate droughts were consistently detected across all indices. Favourable conditions were observed in 2000 and 2006. A strong positive correlation (r¼0.88) between VHI and VCI suggests their similar effectiveness in reflecting vegetation health. In contrast, moderate correlations between VHI and SPI (r ¼0.30), VHI and SPEI (r¼0.39), VCI and SPI (r¼0.28), and VCI and SPEI (r¼0.40) indicate that these indices capture complementary information, reflecting not only precipitation deficits but also the impacts of temperature, soil moisture, and land cover changes. The SPI and SPEI displayed a strong positive correlation (r ¼0.78), aligning in their sensitivity to precipitation and evapotranspiration. Spatial analysis revealed a pronounced north-south drought gradient, with the southwestern region being particularly vulnerable, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.Item Resilient agriculture in semi‑arid Zimbabwe: adaptation strategies and influencers among smallholder farmers(Discover Agriculture, 2025-05-20) Chisadza, Bright; Gwate, Onalenna; Musinguzi, Simon Peter; Mpofu, Nkululeko; Macherera, Margaret; Dube, ThulaniDespite extensive research on climate change impacts and adaptation strategies in Zimbabwe, their effectiveness from the perspective of smallholder farmers, particularly in the Gwayi catchment remains insufficiently understood. This study evaluated adaptation strategies in response to land use change and climate variability using a mixed-methods approach. Data were collected through a survey of 483 smallholder farmers, 10 focus group discussions (8–12 participants), and interviews with 25 key informants. Results show that despite farmers’ awareness of improved practices, adaptation remains constrained by limited access to water, quality seeds, and technology (64%), financial constraints (46%), and knowledge gaps (19%). The most common adaptation strategies include soil water conservation (85%), drought-resistant crops (80%), early planting (55%), and diversification (49%), with soil water conservation and drought-tolerant crops being the most widely practiced and perceived as most effective. Regression analysis indicates that livestock ownership, participation in community climate-resilient programs, and recent drought experiences significantly (p < 0.05) influence both the choice and number of adaptation strategies adopted. These findings highlight the need for context-specific interventions to mitigate the impacts of climate and land use changes on food security. Strengthening resilience among smallholder farmers requires improved resource access, livestock support, community-based resilience programs, capacity building, financial aid, and enhanced drought preparedness. Implementing these measures will bolster adaptive capacity and promote sustainable agricultural practices in the face of climate uncertainty.