Social vulnerability of smallholder farmers to climate change in Zambia: the applicability of social vulnerability index

Abstract

This study assesses social vulnerability and coping strategies of smallholder farmers in two districts in Zambia and the applicability of the social vulnerability index (SVI) approach. Household data from 194 households were collected for the assessment of vulnerability and coping strategies. Using six demographic, economic and social indicators, farmers in Chirundu district were found to be more vulnerable to climate change than those in Masaiti district having recorded SVI of 0.47 and 0.41, respectively. Economic factors (low income level; less diversified sources of income) and social factors (low level of ownership of radio or television; low level of access to climate change information) influenced the vulnerability level of farmers in Chirundu district. Most engaged coping strategies were planting of drought tolerant species, varying the timing of planting, crop diversification, reliance on government assistance and engagement in non-farm jobs. The study makes practical recommendations on how to improve adaptive capacity and resilience of smallholder farmers against climate change impacts. To help tailor the SVI approach for placed-based assessment of social vulnerability to climate change, the paper concludes with recommendations on validity, interrelationships, weighting and aggregation of indicators and scale of application (spatial and temporal) regarding the development and use of SVI.