A climate resilient livelihoods framework for communities in Vhembe District, South Africa

In a changing climate, pursuing sustainable livelihoods is crucial for both human well-being and the preservation of the natural environment. As climate change impacts surpass adaptation thresholds, rural communities worldwide face increasing challenges in their efforts to adapt. This study explored how three South African villages in the northern Vhembe District - Madimbo, Thohoyandou, and Dzimauli - faced this challenge by developing a "climate-resilient livelihoods framework". To better understand the variability of climate change impacts and potential livelihood options, the study was conducted in three geographically, climatically, ecologically, and socioeconomically diverse communities. A mixed methods research design was employed, and a random sampling technique ensured equal probability of selection for all individuals in the target population of 1314. Data on livelihood options adopted in response to climate change impacts and the dynamics of the landscape over time were collected through a combination of questionnaires and interviews focusing on climate change experiences and analyzed thematically. Long-term rainfall and temperature data from 1990 to 2021 were analyzed to assess trends, anomalies, and compare the extent of climate change impacts across the three villages. Landsat 7 and 8 images were classified and mapped to detect changes in land use and land cover across Vhembe District from 2005 to 2019. Supervised classification was used to analyse land use cover. This research analysed livelihood options, seeking to understand how communities diversified their income sources to cope with shifting weather patterns; explored landscape and climate dynamics, mapping and quantifying changes that have occurred in land cover and rainfall over time; and assessed institutional role, exploring how local institutions can support sustainable practices and environmental awareness. The study revealed community-driven solutions, as villagers devised "climate-sustainable activities" tailored to local circumstances. However, human impact footprint was also evident as deforestation and burning contributed to environmental degradation and rising carbon emissions. Regarding rainfall variability, significant fluctuations in seasonal rainfall were observed, with some years experiencing severe droughts. Notable land use transformation was also observed, as forest cover shrunk by 5% from 2005 to 2019, highlighting the need for sustainable land management. It was also revealed that knowledge is power, as access to information about climate change empowers communities to build resilience. This study offers valuable insights for rural communities grappling with climate change, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Grantor dc:publisher

North-West University (South Africa)

Year dc:date.issued

2024

Author dc:creator

• Netshisaulu, Khathutshelo Hildah

Advisors dc:contributor.advisor

• Chikoore, H.
• Chakwizira, J.

• Climate change adaptation
• Sustainable livelihoods
• Landscape dynamics
• Livelihood diversification
• Community-driven solutions

Language dc:language.iso

en

Identifier URI

0000-0001-7291-0829

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:repository.nwu.ac.za:10394/42951