DAPP Zimbabwe is excited to announce the launch of a new 3-year project in Hwedza District, Mashonaland East Province, with support from GAIA Movement USA. The project, titled Hwedza Farmers’ Clubs: Promoting Climate-Resilient Livelihoods and Ecosystems for Smallholder Farmers, aims to strengthen the resilience of 1,000 smallholder farmers against climate change and economic challenges.
Running from April 2025 to 2027, the project will focus on promoting climate-resilient agricultural practices and improving food and income security for smallholder farmers and their families in Wards 1, 5, 9, 10, and 11. This initiative aligns with national and regional frameworks, including the SADC Regional Resilience Framework and Zimbabwe’s National Climate Change Response Strategy, supporting a coordinated and integrated approach to building resilience among rural smallholder farmers.
As part of this initiative, DAPP Zimbabwe will bring together 1,000 smallholder farmers through 20 established Farmers’ Clubs, each comprising 50 dedicated farmers. These clubs will provide a platform for farmers to receive training and support, empowering them to adopt climate-resilient practices that will protect their livelihoods.
To further strengthen their efforts, the project will establish two Climate Adaptation Centers equipped with innovative solutions, such as solar-powered boreholes and drip irrigation systems. These centres will demonstrate ecosystem-based farming practices, allowing farmers to see the benefits firsthand and learn how to implement these strategies on their land.
The project will leverage the symbiotic relationships between plants and livestock to build climate resilience. By integrating crops and animals, smallholder farmers will learn to cultivate gardens that thrive despite the challenges posed by climate change, while also generating income. As agroforestry systems develop and biodiversity increases, farmers will benefit from a healthier ecosystem. This will result in a triple benefit: more food on the table, improved nutrition for their families, and a steady income.
To ensure the long-term success of this project, DAPP Zimbabwe will create strong partnerships with existing local structures and organizations. By collaborating with these key stakeholders, DAPP aims to foster a community-based approach that empowers smallholder farmers to take ownership of their journey towards climate resilience.
DAPP Zimbabwe is committed to empowering smallholder farmers by providing them with the knowledge, skills and resources needed to adapt to climate change. Our aim is to create lasting solutions to the challenges posed by climate change and improve the lives of smallholder farmers and their families in Hwedza District and we are excited for this journey, thanks to GAIA Movement USA for the financial support.
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