Examining Effectiveness of Adaptation Strategies by Small Scale Maize Farmers against Climate Change: Case Study of Small-Scale Farmers in Ngwezi-2 Area of Mazabuka

This study examines adaptation strategies by small-scale maize farmers in Ngwezi-2, Mazabuka, Zambia, from 2019 to 2024 amid increasing droughts and floods linked to climate change. Droughts became more frequent, peaking with three occurrences in 2024. Maize yields declined significantly: Yield losses reached 800 kg/hectare during droughts and 600 kg/hectare in floods. For instance, in 2023, average maize yield fell 40% from 2000 kg/ha in 2022 to 1200 kg/ha due to severe droughts (Figure 4.8). Farmers adopted various adaptation strategies to mitigate yield losses. Crop diversification increased from 10 farmers in 2019 to 12 in 2024, while drought-resistant seeds, irrigation, conservation agriculture, and agroforestry were also employed (Table 4.5). These measures improved yields by about 20-30% during drought years. However, barriers remain: High costs, limited access to resources, and difficulties scaling complex interventions like irrigation. Economic and social adaptations, such as income diversification (e.g., poultry rearing) and microfinance, helped lessen the financial impacts of reduced maize yields. These findings underscore the need for more targeted support to strengthen farmers’ resilience and cope with intensifying climate variability. With strategic interventions, small-scale farmers can better sustain production and livelihoods as climate-related challenges intensify. Research and policy support can enhance availability, enabling measure adoption.