Climate Change Effects on Local Livelihoods: The Impact on Food Security Strategies for Elderly, Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Eswatini

This study assesses climate change related socio-economic impacts in Eswatini particularly its influence on agriculture production, livelihoods and food security strategies for the elderly, orphans and vulnerable children. Using a mixed-methods approach, data from 100 participants were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics and thematic qualitative analysis. The results indicate substantial disruptions in agricultural operations (average: 2.65) and household income (average: 2.89) attributed to extreme weather phenomena such as droughts and storms, with catastrophic impacts on crop yields (average: 3.14) and economic well-being (average: 2.71). Urgent action is required because of challenges such as decreasing livestock production, drying earth dams and maize smallholders switching to livestock production. 40% of social protection beneficiaries in Eswatini rely on government social grants targeted to vulnerable populations, specifically the elderly as well as orphans and other vulnerable children, but inconsistent and poorly harnessed social protection programs have hampered their effectiveness in alleviating poverty. Deepening food insecurity has led some orphans and vulnerable children to drop out of school to seek work. The new study highlights the urgent need for strategic interventions, including adopting sustainable agricultural practices, improving social protection systems, and combating political mismanagement. However, there is a need for collaboration among government, international agencies, and local communities to mitigate the longer-term effects of this crisis, build resilience, and ensure sustainable livelihoods for vulnerable and marginalised groups.