Browsing by Author "Phiri, K."

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    Gendered spaces in natural resource utilisation for sustainable development in rural communities of Zimbabwe
    (Cogent Social Sciences, 2021-03-19) Sithole, M.; Phiri, K.; Masabo, T.
    Understanding gendered spaces in natural resource utilisation is critical in correcting gender inequalities in rural landscapes of developing states and thus ensuring sustainable development. This paper, therefore explores gendered spaces in mopane worm and woodland utilisation in Bulilima district of Zimbabwe by analysing niches of: exploitation, temporal dimension and niches that are resourcespecific. This paper utilised a cross–sectional exploratory multi-method research design. However, the qualitative approach dominated within this design. This design found practical expression through the use of both qualitative and quantitative techniques within a participatory framework. Taking this approach ensured methodological triangulation which was key in enhancing the validity of study findings. The quantitative dimensions of the study were elicited through a survey questionnaire whereas the qualitative dimensions involved the use of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and Key Informant Interviews (KIIs). Results reveal that spaces where men and women interact, use and exert control over mopane resources are influenced by institutions that make them complex and fluid. The paper concludes that policies should target efforts that reinforce those institutions and spaces in which women assume leadership in natural resource governance in order to make 2030 Agenda a reality.
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    Understanding climate smart agriculture and the resilience of smallholder farmers in Umguza district, Zimbabwe
    (Taylor and Francis Online, 2021-08-30) Phiri, K.; Nhliziyo, M.; Madzivire, S.I.; Sithole, M.; Nyathi, D.
    Climate smart agriculture has enhanced the viability and sustainability of smallholder farming in Umguza District of Zimbabwe. This study documents how smallholder farmers in Umguza District have responded to the adverse effects of climate change by venturing into small grains production, conservation farming and small livestock production. This paper discusses the vulnerability of smallholder farmers in Umguza District to climate change induced risks. The vulnerability profile is followed by an exposition of the resilience strategies used by the farmers to mitigate the effects of climate change. Additionally, the paper considers how the government institutions and development agencies can mainstream the adoption of climate smart farming technologies. The study used qualitative and quantitative approaches as methods of data collection, data were gathered through five key informants, and 30 in-depth semi structured questionnaires. This study suggests that government institutions and development practitioners should intensify resilience-building programmes, conduct climate awareness programmes and avail funding to improve the acceptance of CSA practices among smallholder farmers in Umguza and the rest of Zimbabwe.
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    Urban household food insecurity and cash transfers in Bulawayo townships, Zimbabwe
    (Taylor and Francis, 2021-12-12) Ndlovu, S.; Mpofu, M.; Moyo, P.; Phiri, K.; Dube, T.
    Urban household food insecurity is highly prevalent in Zimbabwe due to the persisting poor macro-economic environment, droughts, HIV and AIDS and climate change. This paper examines the effectiveness of cash transfers in alleviating urban household food insecurity in the city of Bulawayo. The assessment focuses on understanding the extent to which cash transfers improve poor households’ access to food. The study was conducted in Makokoba and Njube townships. A combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods were used in gathering and analysing data. Purposive sampling techniques were used to select study participants. Semi-structured in-depth interviews (50), questionnaires (280), and key-informant interviews (11) were used to collect primary data. The study is anchored on Sen’s Entitlement Approach in examining the role of cash transfers in strengthening trade-based entitlements of ultra-poor households. We find that cash transfers have nominally alleviated urban household food insecurity in these townships. Households receiving cash transfers have not meaningfully improved access to food on a regular basis. They ate small quantities of food, skipped meals and had poor dietary diversity regardless of receiving cash transfers. Factors such as low transfer value, irregular distributions, weak targeting mechanisms, disbursement mechanism and poor communication have deterred the effectiveness of cash transfers in the two townships. We recommend a revamp in design and implementation processes of cash transfer programmes. Transfers meant for improving access to food should be implemented in conjunction with livelihood projects to enable poor urbanites to meet non-food basic needs.