Socio-economic analysis of conservation agriculture in southern Africa

Abstract

Southern Africa, a region little affected by the Green Revolution and likely to suffer severe detrimental impacts from climate change, faces pervasive poverty, hunger, and environmental degradation. Conservation agriculture may be a sustainable and effective way to resolve these issues, but stakeholders need accessible and solid evidence of its effectiveness. The purpose of this report is to analyze the impact of CA on the Southern Africans countries of South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe through a literature review and discourse with CA promoters and farmers in these countries. In each country, a history of CA practices and socio-economic profiles of CA households is given. The authors also analyze the profitability of CA in Zimbabwe and Zambia, as well as assess the interplay of labor demand and HIV/AIDS in the adoption of CA practices. Finally, recommendations are made to facilitate the application and dissemination of conservation agriculture strategies.