Examining the Effectiveness of Adaptive Farming Practices in Mitigating the Effects of Prolonged Drought on Maize Production: A Case Study of Demu Ward, Pemba District

This study investigated the adaptive farming practices employed by smallholder maize farmers to mitigate the effects of prolonged drought in rural Zambia. A sample of 60 farmers was surveyed using structured questionnaires, complemented by open-ended questions to capture qualitative insights. The study examined the demographic characteristics of farmers, the types of adaptive strategies adopted, their effectiveness, and the role of support services in facilitating practice adoption. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative responses was thematically analyzed to provide context and deeper understanding.

Findings reveal that maize farming is predominantly male-dominated (65%) and that the majority of farmers are relatively young (50% aged 25–35 years) with secondary or tertiary education levels, which positively influence the adoption of innovative strategies. Smallholder farmers, primarily cultivating 1–2 hectares, employ multiple adaptive techniques to enhance drought resilience, including conservation farming (65%), drought-resistant maize varieties (60%), early planting (55%), and mulching (45%). Farmers reported yield improvements from 20–30 bags per hectare without adaptive practices to 80-120 bags per hectare with adoption under good management, indicating significant effectiveness. Extension officers, NGOs, training workshops, and peer networks were identified as the main sources of knowledge and support.

The study concludes that adaptive practices improve yield stability and enhance drought resilience but are constrained by limited access to inputs, knowledge gaps, and insufficient extension support. Recommendations include strengthening extension services, promoting integrated adaptive strategies, improving access to inputs, supporting knowledge sharing and peer learning, leveraging media and technology, addressing gender inequalities, and enhancing policy and institutional support. The study provides practical insights for farmers, policymakers, and development partners to enhance the sustainability and resilience of smallholder maize farming under drought conditions.