This study examines how Indigenous Knowledge Systems, including bird behaviour, animal behaviour and vegetation changes, inform climate change adaptation and strengthen rural resilience in Mberengwa
Climate change poses significant challenges to rural livelihoods in Zimbabwe, particularly through rainfall variability and recurrent droughts. Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) provide communities with locally developed knowledge for interpreting environmental changes and responding to climatic variability. This study examined the role of IKS in climate change adaptation in Mberengwa District, Zimbabwe.
A field-based case study approach was employed, using interviews and questionnaires administered to local community members. The data were analysed to identify indigenous environmental indicators and assess their relevance to local interpretations of weather patterns and climate adaptation.
The findings revealed that community members relied on observations of bird behaviour, animal behaviour, and vegetation changes to interpret environmental conditions and anticipate weather patterns. These practices demonstrated the continued relevance of locally acquired ecological knowledge in informing community responses to climatic variability.
The study highlighted the importance of documenting and preserving indigenous knowledge and recognising its contribution to climate change adaptation. It further emphasised the need to explore synergies between indigenous knowledge and scientific climate information to strengthen rural climate resilience. Integrating these knowledge systems could support locally responsive, context-specific adaptation strategies and improve climate change adaptation planning in rural communities.
Nyashadzashe Shoko is a SHEQ, Nuclear Safety, Environmental Management and ESG professional with 13 years of experience, currently serving as Acting Head of Nuclear Safety in the energy sector.