Abstract
This study measured the economic impacts of climate change on agriculture in Zimbabwe based on a cross-section survey of over 700 farming households. We applied the Ricardian approach to analyse the response of net revenue from crop and livestock agriculture across smallholder farming systems in the country to changes in climate normals (that is, mean rainfall and temperature). The sensitivity of net farm revenues was used to make inferences on the food security implications of climate change in the country. Results show that net farm revenues are affected negatively by increases in temperature and positively by increases in precipitation. The results from sensitivity analysis suggest that agricultural production in Zimbabwe's smallholder farming system is significantly constrained by climatic factors (high temperature and low rainfall). Farms with irrigation are more resistant to changes in climate, indicating that irrigation is an important adaptation option to help reduce the impact of further changes in climate. Dryland farming predominantly typical in Zimbabwe is the most vulnerable to warming and lower rainfall, whereas the irrigated systems are the most tolerant. These results have important policy implications especially for the need to support dryland smallholder adaptation strategies for agricultural development in the country in light of expected climate changes. For example, irrigation offered better adaptation options for farmers against further warming and drying predicted under various future climate scenarios. Key words: Economic impacts, climate change, food security, policy implications, Zimbabwe.
Highlights
Climate change impact studies have shown that the productivity of agricultural activities is highly sensitive to climate change
The effect of climate change on agricultural systems can be seen in the interaction between changes in climate variables and the stresses that result from actions taken to increase agricultural production
The important policy message from this finding is that the government, private sector and Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) can improve net farm performances for smallholder farms by ensuring increased farmer training, and helping farmers acquire more livestock
Summary
Climate change impact studies have shown that the productivity of agricultural activities is highly sensitive to climate change. The effect of changes in climate on agricultural activities both physical and economic has been shown to be significant for low input farming systems, such as subsistence farming in developing countries in sub-Saharan Africa that are located in marginal areas and have the least capacity to adapt to changing climatic conditions (Rosenzweig and Parry, 1994; Reilly and Schimmelpfennig, 1999; Kates, 2000; McGuigan et al, 2002). The effect of climate change on agricultural systems can be seen in the interaction between changes in climate variables and the stresses that result from actions taken to increase agricultural production.
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
