In an era marked by the urgent need for sustainable agricultural practices, small-scale farmers in Zimbabwe stand poised to lead the charge in promoting climate-smart farming. This was the central theme of a recent discussion hosted by Women’s Institute for Leadership Development (WILD) via the GreenDigitalConnectzw WhatsApp platform. The session featured guest speaker Sisasenkosi Fumhanda, an accomplished Agricultural Economist and Agronomy Consultant based in Bulawayo, who is also a semi-finalist in the Green Innovative Idea competition. Her insights came at a critical time, as farmers prepare for the upcoming cropping season amidst the challenges posed by global warming and erratic rainfall patterns.
The discussion, titled “Climate-Smart Farming: Protecting Our Soil and Future Harvest,” highlighted the pressing realities faced by farmers across various agro-ecological zones in Zimbabwe. Sisasenkosi emphasized that the adverse effects of climate change, such as prolonged droughts and excessive rainfall, particularly impact regions like Matabeleland—which includes Matobo’s drylands, Beitbridge’s heat, and Bulawayo’s peri-urban plots. With the agricultural landscape shifting dramatically, Sisasenkosi underscored the necessity of adopting locally adapted solutions to enhance soil health and optimize farming practices.
As an advocate for practical support, Sisasenkosi leads the Farmers Clinic initiative, which provides small-scale farmers with essential services such as soil testing, crop and livestock advice, and climate-smart training. Drawing from her extensive experience in agronomy and her own background as a small-scale farmer, she combines technical expertise with lived reality. Her commitment to empowering farmers to make informed decisions regarding soil health, production planning, and market access is evident in her work, which aims to restore Zimbabwe’s agricultural potential while mentoring youth in sustainable practices.
“As we prepare for the upcoming cropping season, it’s important that we pause not just to plan what we’ll plant, but to reflect on how we’ll farm,” Sisasenkosi remarked. She emphasized that soil health is foundational to agricultural success. “If the soil is tired, compacted, or depleted, even the best seed won’t perform. With changing rainfall patterns, rising input costs, and unpredictable weather, we need to farm smarter, not harder.”
Sisasenkosi proposed several innovative strategies for farmers to enhance soil fertility and diversify income. For instance, integrating crop and livestock systems allows farmers to use manure from goats or chickens to enrich vegetable gardens. Drought-tolerant crops like sorghum, millet, and cowpeas can be particularly beneficial in drier areas, while practices such as mulching, zai pits, and minimum tillage help conserve moisture and protect soil structure.
The conversation also touched upon water management techniques, including harvesting rainwater through rooftop systems or infiltration pits and repurposing greywater for drip irrigation. Sisasenkosi encouraged farmers to explore solar dryers as a means to reduce post-harvest losses and improve food preservation. Furthermore, she highlighted the importance of knowledge-sharing through Farmer Field Schools, where farmers can mentor youth in sustainable practices and mobilize communities for initiatives like planting vetiver grass for erosion control.
Soil fertility can be further enhanced by adding compost, manure, and crop residues, which improve soil structure and nourish microbial life. Crop rotation, particularly with legumes such as groundnuts or cowpeas, naturally adds nitrogen to the soil. In dry regions, cover crops and mulching serve to retain moisture and reduce erosion. Sisasenkosi pointed out that some farmers have begun planting trees like Leucaena along field edges to fix nitrogen and provide shade, showcasing affordable and locally available methods that have proven effective.
Soil testing remains a critical component of soil health management, allowing farmers to obtain a full nutrient profile of their soil. For those who may lack the financial resources for lab testing, Sisasenkosi offered practical alternatives, such as observing soil characteristics and crop performance. Healthy soil should be dark, crumbly, and teeming with roots and earthworms. Signs of poor soil health, such as rapid water drainage or pooling, can indicate structural issues that need addressing.
However, challenges persist. Many farmers face limited access to inputs like compost or lime, and a lack of training hampers their ability to implement sustainable practices. Sisasenkosi encouraged creative solutions, such as making compost from kitchen waste and livestock manure, and fostering knowledge-sharing through peer-to-peer learning initiatives. Erosion, particularly on slopes, poses significant risks, but planting vetiver grass, building contour ridges, and practicing minimum tillage can help mitigate these issues.
Adapting to the changing climate requires innovation and flexibility. Farmers are encouraged to plant early-maturing varieties and utilize mulching to protect soil, alongside harvesting rainwater to prepare for dry spells. In flood-prone areas, raised beds and improved drainage systems can help crops withstand excess water. Sisasenkosi noted that adjusting planting calendars to align with shifting rainfall patterns is essential, citing that farmers who planted early in the 2024/25 season experienced better harvests compared to those who planted later.
Sustainable pest management approaches were also a focal point of discussion. Sisasenkosi advocated for the use of natural pest control methods, such as neem, garlic, and chili sprays to manage pests like aphids and caterpillars. These eco-friendly solutions are not only cost-effective but also protect beneficial pollinators and contribute to healthier crops. Intercropping techniques, such as planting maize alongside legumes, can further enhance soil health and yield.
Youth involvement emerged as a vital component in promoting climate-smart agriculture. Sisasenkosi encouraged young people to form farming clubs or cooperatives to pool resources, share ideas, and establish demonstration plots. Utilizing social media for disseminating farming tips and market prices can empower the next generation of farmers. Many youths are already leading initiatives such as composting projects and tree planting drives, creating jobs and building confidence within their communities.
Local seed banks play a crucial role in preserving indigenous and climate-resilient crop varieties, reducing reliance on commercial seed systems, and ensuring that small-scale farmers have access to affordable, adaptable seeds. By maintaining seed control within the community, farmers can strengthen food sovereignty and resilience against climate challenges.
The discussion on climate-smart farming practices led by Sisasenkosi Fumhanda illuminated the vital role small-scale farmers can play in Zimbabwe’s agricultural future. By embracing local solutions, sustainable practices, and community engagement, these farmers can navigate the challenges posed by climate change and contribute to a more resilient agricultural landscape. Protecting soil health and fostering a culture of innovation will not only safeguard future harvests but also empower communities to thrive in an increasingly unpredictable climate. As Zimbabwe looks toward a sustainable agricultural future, the commitment of its small-scale farmers remains a beacon of hope and resilience.