From Fields to Pits: Artisanal Mining as a Climate Adaptation Pathway for Women Farmers in Drought-Prone Malole, Zimbabwe

Mbongeni Nhliziyo, Vuyisile Precious Moyo, Philani Moyo, Douglas Nyathi, Wayne Malinga

Abstract


  Rural communities in Zimbabwe's drought-prone regions grapple with severe livelihood insecurity due to the combined effects of climate change, economic instability, and limited access to formal employment. In Malole Village, Insiza District, women smallholder farmers have increasingly turned to artisanal mining as a response to chronic crop failures and acute deagrarianisation. This study explored the viability of artisanal mining as a climate adaptation strategy for women small-farm holders, aiming to understand its contributions and limitations in enhancing household resilience. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, the research employed a qualitative case study design, incorporating in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations to capture lived experiences and socio-economic dynamics. Findings reveal that artisanal mining provides an immediate and substantial income source, enabling women to purchase food, pay school fees, and diversify their livelihoods amid agricultural decline. It also offers a degree of financial autonomy in a context where alternative income-generating opportunities are scarce. However, the study identified significant challenges undermining this adaptation pathway. The criminalisation of artisanal mining exposes women to exploitation by sponsors and mine barons, while the lack of legal protection fosters insecurity and vulnerability. Environmental degradation, including deforestation, soil erosion, and abandoned open pits, threatens both ecosystems and long-term agricultural productivity. We argue that while artisanal mining can serve as a short-term coping mechanism, it is not a sustainable adaptation strategy. The study recommends policy reforms to formalize and regulate artisanal mining, gender-sensitive capacity-building programs, and integrated rural development initiatives that combine climate-resilient agriculture with safer, environmentally responsible livelihood diversification options.

Received: 10 April 2025

Accepted: 14 June 2026

Published: 10 September 2026


Keywords


Artisanal mining, Climate adaptation, Sustainable livelihoods, Women, Zimbabwe

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References


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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21622/MACI.2026.03.2.2081

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Copyright (c) 2026 Mbongeni Nhliziyo, Vuyisile Precious Moyo, Philani Moyo, Douglas Nyathi, Wayne Malinga

Multidisciplinary Adaptive Climate Insights

E-ISSN: 3009-6332

P-ISSN: 3009-7924

 

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