The Contribution of wetlands to rural livelihoods and poverty alleviation in Bindura, a case study of Gunyere wetland
- Author
- Marovahopo, Irene
- Title
- The Contribution of wetlands to rural livelihoods and poverty alleviation in Bindura, a case study of Gunyere wetland
- Abstract
- This study aimed to address the multifaceted roles of wetlands in supporting rural livelihoods and poverty alleviation. Wetlands in Zimbabwe are important for increasing agricultural output, offering ecosystem services and protecting water supplies among other functions. This research investigates the contribution of wetlands in Bindura to rural livelihoods and poverty reduction, with an emphasis on Gunyere wetland in ward 10. This study explores ramifications of sustainable management and importance of Gunyere wetland services to local households’ income generation, food security and climate variability resilience. The objectives include, to identify various ecosystem services offered by Gunyere wetland, to evaluate the contribution of socio-economic benefits of Gunyere wetland to local household income and to investigate challenges local communities face in managing wetlands sustainably while addressing poverty. To achieve the goals the research involved the use of a mixed-methodology approach that includes surveys, interviews, group discussions and field observations. Key findings indicated the potential role of wetlands in generating household income, increasing food security and reducing poverty, particularly from wetland agricultural activities. Key findings also indicated the provision of multiple benefits beyond direct resource use. The wetland’s biodiversity supports agricultural productivity by enhancing soil fertility and pest control through natural predator species. This helps improve crop yields and reduces reliance on chemical inputs. Additionally, the wetland also acts as a natural buffer against extreme weather events by mitigating floods and regulating local microclimates, which in turn protects farmlands and settlements. Women and marginalized groups actively engage in harvesting medicinal plants and wild fruits, contributing to household nutrition and health. The role of the wetland in groundwater recharge is critical in sustaining water supplies during dry seasons, supporting both human consumption and irrigation. Furthermore, the presence of diverse animal species promotes ecological balance, helping to control pests and support pollination essential for food crops. Overally, these findings underscore the multifaceted contributions of the Gunyere wetland to environmental health, socio-economic development, and climate resilience in the local community. However, barriers like overexploitation and encroachment place these benefits’ sustainability under threat. This study concluded that wetlands are crucial ecosystems that provide various benefits improving socio-economic well-being of the society. Recommendations include, improved market access, infrastructure development, education and livelihood diversification to ensure integrated strategy towards sustainable use of wetlands.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Wetlands
- Livelihoods
- Supervisor
- MS C Masona
- Item sets
- Department of Natural Resources
- Media
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Marovahopo - NRM.pdf