Ethnobotanic survey on Cassia Tora in Mbire district, Ward 9

Author

Mhungu, Performance

Title

Ethnobotanic survey on Cassia Tora in Mbire district, Ward 9

Abstract

This research assessed history, challenges and opportunities of invasive alien plants species
Cassia Tora, locally known as ‘chimudzungu’ in Mushumbi Pools community in Ward
9 of Mbire district in Zimbabwe. The researcher used a questionnaire to collect data from the population. The sample size for this research had 30 farmers and the researcher used purposive sampling. The results indicate that farmers across ages and gender have limited knowledge about the invasive plant in their community. The farmers mainly involved in crop production indicated that the plant species affect their production process leading to low yields. Livestock farmers highlighted that the invasive plant species compete with native grasses in their grazing land resulting in low pastures for livestock. Farmers involved in apiculture highlighted that it is a source of bee forage. It can be recommended that the Government and responsible authorities should come up with policies regarding this type of plant species in Mushumbi Pools and other affected areas around Mbire. In addition, responsible authorities should not get rid Cassia Tora since it presents opportunities for apiculture farmers and also more can be explored on medicinal purposes associated with this plant.

Date

June 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Alien plants species

Cassia Tora

Supervisor

Mr. Bishi