The Impact Of Environmental Change On Rural Livelihoods In Zimbabwe. The Case Of Hurungwe District Ward 13 (2006-2014)

ABSTRACT

The research investigated the impact of environmental change on rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe

using the case study of Hurungwe Ward 13 using the qualitative research method which was

complimented by the quantitative method. Focus Group Discussions, questionnaires and direct

observations were used to gather information on how environmental change impacts on the

livelihoods of the people in the area under study. Semi-structured interviews were also used to

get information from key informants like AREX officials and Environmental Monitors from

within the Ward. Both underlying and direct causes of environmental change were clearly

articulated in the text. Results from the research revealed that there are serious negative impacts

on livelihoods as a result of environmental change since soil degradation and climate change

have lowered agricultural yields leading to poverty and food insecurity. Depletion of natural

resources like vegetation and gold has also affected income earned from the exploitation of these

resources and water pollution has led to health problems in both human beings and livestock.

The research established that the situation has been worsened by over-reliance on the

deteriorating natural resource base which is due to lack of livelihood diversification. It is

important for the government and other relevant stakeholders to employ strategies to improve

environmental management and livelihood diversification in order to ensure sustainable

livelihoods in the country.