Indigenous knowledge systems-based drought coping strategies and mechanisms of the Ndau people of Chipinge district, Zimbabwe

Drought is a common phenomenon that affects more people within the context of Africa than any other disaster. Likewise, drought is an extreme and common occurrence within the lowland areas of Chipinge district in Zimbabwe. Whilst responses to drought tend to focus on scientific investigations, of late, there has been growing awareness of the importance of adopting indigenous knowledge systems (IKS) as mitigation strategies. Through qualitative research utilising semi-structured interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs) and document analysis, this study sought to highlight the efficacy of indigenous knowledge as a sustainable and valuable resource that can be harnessed by indigenous communities for managing drought. A sample of 20 participants was recruited, seven participants through purposive sampling and 13 via snowball sampling. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. The study was underpinned by the community-based disaster risk management (CBDRM) framework. Research findings indicated reliance on IKS-based meteorological indicators for drought forecasting. Drought-coping strategies, inclusive of rainmaking ceremonies, the practice of kuparira (dry planting), intercropping, dry food preservation and the cultivation of drought-tolerant crops were identified. Contribution: The study advocates for the integration of these IKS as tailored, sustainable strategies for drought management. Therefore, policymakers should formally integrate IKS into national drought management frameworks by establishing community-based platforms where local elders and experts can collaborate with meteorological services, and by adapting agricultural extension programs to promote proven indigenous strategies.