The Impacts of climate change on food security and child-headed households in Rushinga district

Author

Chiwara, Tatenda

Title

The Impacts of climate change on food security and child-headed households in Rushinga district

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate the impact of climate change on food security among child-headed households in Rushinga District, Zimbabwe. Utilizing a case study research design, the study employed qualitative methods, primarily in-depth interviews, to gather data from respondents, including child-headed households, community leaders, and NGO representatives. A sample of 25 respondents was selected through simple random sampling. Data was collected using in-depth interviews. Key findings reveal that climate change significantly exacerbates vulnerabilities faced by child-headed households, particularly through increased water scarcity and the frequency of droughts, which lead to crop failures and heightened food insecurity. Respondents report that these challenges force children to take on adult responsibilities, negatively impacting their education and mental health. The study highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions to support child-headed households in coping with the adverse effects of climate change. Recommendations include establishing community support programs that provide food aid and agricultural training, enhancing access to education through scholarship initiatives, and strengthening social safety nets to alleviate economic pressures. Additionally, promoting community gardens and implementing climate adaptation strategies can significantly improve food security and resilience among these vulnerable populations.

Date

March 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Climate change

Food security

Child- headed families

Supervisor

Dr. J. Kurebwa