Examining the Effects of Drought on Household Food Security Among Small - Scale Farmers: A Case Study of Musyani Ward, Nakonde District

This study examines the effects of drought on household food security among small- scale farmers: a case study of Musyani ward, Nakonde District. This is done by using a mixed- approach, (qualitative and quantitative) data from 50 farmers aged 30-70 as qualitative insights were collected through questionnaires and interviews. The investigation assessed the effects of climate change on crop yields among small scale famers, evaluated the climate change adaptation strategies employed by small scale farmers, and identified recommendations to enhance household food security in Nakonde District, Zambia.

The findings reveal that drought is a frequent and recurring challenge in Nakonde, with 30.7% of farmers experiencing drought annually and 35.09% every 2-3 years. Deforestation was identified as a major exacerbating factor for drought severity by 70.31% of respondents. Droughts significantly reduced maize yields, with 28.07% reporting substantial decreases over five years and 64% observing marked reductions in crop quality last season. The resultant water scarcity, reduced yields, increased pest incidence, soil degradation, and crop failures have severely affected agricultural productivity and household incomes, with 65% experiencing significant financial losses. Importantly, all farmers reported increased stress and anxiety linked to drought conditions by impacting social cohesion and mental health.

However, 26.32% of the respondents employed Adaptation strategies which include irrigation system while 25.44% adopted crop rotation and 20.18% uses drought-resistant varieties. 27.19% of the respondents face challenges such as lack of advanced technology and financial constraints which constitute 21.05% of the respondents as 17.54% of the respondents said the resource scarcity were impede effectiveness.

Discussion highlights the intertwined environmental, socio-economic, and psychological effects of climate change on Nakonde’ s small-scale farmers. The study emphasizes the urgent need for integrated interventions including financial support, capacity-building, improved water management infrastructure, reforestation, mental health services, and inclusive policies. Not only this but also strengthening local institutions and leveraging indigenous knowledge alongside modern practices were recommended to enhance adaptive capacity.