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Author
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Mafemera, Panashe. F
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Title
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Exploring the nexus between underdevelopment, climate change and poverty in rural Zimbabwe, case of Uzumba Maramba Pfungwe (UMP).
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Abstract
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This dissertation examines the interconnected challenges of underdevelopment, climate change, and poverty in UMP District, Mashonaland East, Zimbabwe, through the lens of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory. Using a qualitative research approach, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with councilors and farmers, in-depth interviews with Agritex Officers and explorative interviews with traditional leaders, community leader’s representatives to explore how unmet basic needs such as food, water, security, and participation exacerbate vulnerability to climate shocks and perpetuate cycles of poverty. The findings reveal that underdevelopment, characterized by poor infrastructure, severely limits the community’s capacity to adapt to climate variability. Prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, and crop failures deepen poverty, forcing households to sell assets or rely on food aid, with women and youth disproportionately affected. However, the study also identifies grassroots resilience strategies, including climate-resilient agriculture, renewable energy adoption, and community cooperatives, which align with Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory by prioritizing participatory, sustainable solutions. Recommendations include targeted investments in infrastructure, gender-responsive policies, and support for community-led initiatives. This study contributes to broader debates on climate adaptation and sustainable development, offering insights into the role of local agency and participatory governance in marginalized contexts.
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Date
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August 2025
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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climate change
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underdevelopment
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Supervisor
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Dr, Zembere
Mafemera Panashe.pdf