Abstract
This study was carried out in selected districts of Mashonaland East and Central provinces of Zimbabwe in 2011 to determine the effects of soil erosion on arable lands and how this related to catchment management. Results show that the highest contribution is 53% and is obtained from arable land codes 5 and 7. These fields show signs of excessive sheet and gully erosion. The least contribution is 0.8% and this is on arable land codes 3, 4 and 8. These fields have properly done conservation works existing. 33% of the assessed arable lands have conservation works in place whilst 67% are not protected and as such the fields are eroded. Soil erosion results in the washing away of the precious top soil, responsible for plant growth and infiltration of rain or irrigation water. This reduces the usefulness of such affected arable lands as crops grown on it can’t thrive due to lack of soil fertility. The paper recommends that government policies focus more on promoting sustainable land use through integrated catchment area management. This will go a long way in achieving sustainable development in Zimbabwe.
Highlights
The existence of human beings on earth depends completely on the availability of critical resources such as land, water and foodstuffs
Results show that the highest contribution is 53% and is obtained from arable land codes 5 and 7
This paper focused on the management of arable lands in the post fast track land reform program of Zimbabwe
Summary
The existence of human beings on earth depends completely on the availability of critical resources such as land, water and foodstuffs. These key assets are derived from the natural environment [1]. The proper and sustainable utilisation and management of this essential resource can go a long way in sustaining life on mother earth. Improper and unsustainable utilization of land can result in soil erosion which if left unchecked leads to desertification and the siltation of river systems. In order to curb this problem of soil erosion and its resultant effects, proper catchment management must be implemented
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
