A systematic literature review on the impact of climate change on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in South Africa

  • 0Centre for Ecological Intelligence, Faculty of Engineering and the Build Environment (FEBE), University of Johannesburg, Electrical and Electronic Engineering Science, Auckland Park Campus, Auckland Park, Johannesburg, South Africa.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Climate change severely impacts South African smallholder farmers, causing livestock loss, reduced crop yields, and economic hardship. Targeted interventions are crucial for their resilience and food security.

Area Of Science

  • Agricultural Science
  • Environmental Science
  • Climate Science

Background

  • Smallholder farmers in South Africa face increasing vulnerability due to climate change.
  • This poses significant threats to their livelihoods and national food security.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To systematically review the impacts of climate change on smallholder farmers in South Africa.
  • To identify challenges, coping strategies, and inform policy recommendations.

Main Methods

  • Systematic literature review using three academic databases.
  • Screening of 261 articles, with 35 included in the final analysis.
  • Data extraction and synthesis to identify common themes and findings.

Main Results

  • Identified key impacts: loss of livestock, reduced crop yields, and economic hardship.
  • Documented various coping and adaptation strategies employed by farmers.
  • Highlighted the urgent need for support mechanisms to enhance farmer resilience.

Conclusions

  • Climate change poses a substantial threat to the livelihoods of South African smallholder farmers.
  • Effective adaptation strategies and policy interventions are essential for long-term agricultural sustainability.
  • Enhanced resilience is critical for ensuring food security in the region.