Case study 6: Zimbabwe - climate proofing infrastructure and diversifying livelihoods in Zimbabwe
Chigwada, J.
IDS Bulletin 36(4): 103-116
2005
ISSN/ISBN: 0265-5012 DOI: 10.1111/j.1759-5436.2005.tb00237.xDocument Number: 359044
This case study examines how a small group of villagers in the Beitbridge District, Zimbabwe, came together to reduce their climate vulnerabilities through livelihood diversification. Rather than trying to rebuild a dam that had been destroyed by an unexpected cyclone, the villagers chose to use the leftover funds to rehabilitate wetland, buy goats, set up seed nurseries and switch from maize, which is difficult to grow in persistent drought conditions, to drought-tolerant and pest-resistant sorghum. A key part of their success lies in their establishing a new community institution endowed with legal personality: the Tongwe Community Development Group. The villagers were then able to receive, manage and utilize external funds in a timely fashion without intermediaries. This case study illustrates the need to "climate proof" future infrastructure to ensure precious investments are not "washed away" with climate change.