Incorporating indigenous knowledge systems-based climate services in anticipatory action in Zimbabwe: an ex-ante assessment

• DOI: 10.3389/fclim.2024.1301908
• Publication Date: 2024-02-28T05:06:15Z
• Authors: Thulani Dube; Anna Lena Huhn; Gabriela Guimarãe...; Elisha Nyikadzino...; Markus Enenkel
• Keywords: Ex-ante; Traditional Knowledge

Introduction The success of anticipatory action (AA) in climate change related disaster risk reduction depends largely on the ability to accurately predict adverse weather events and subsequently take appropriate timely action. current seasonal forecasts obtained through national global forecasting centers such as Zimbabwe Meteorological Services Department (MSD) European Center for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) have been found several limitations including limited skill intra-seasonal variability which is vital most processes, lack accessibility, difficult interpretability applicability local communities. As a result, calls integration Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS)-based services bolster efficacy accuracy are increasing. Methodology study employed mixed methods approach combining survey 200 household heads, document reviews key informant interviews with IKS specialists, AA community practice members specialists. Results This article presents findings carried out four semi-arid districts (Mbire, Matobo, Binga, Mudzi) assess feasibility integrating into drought mechanism at national, district, ward level. We find that 82% surveyed households used indigenous knowledge systems extreme combined scientific forecasts. Respondents demonstrated preference triangulated increase reliability. Both meteorological approaches based had different strengths weaknesses. Discussion Based gaps techniques, applicability, quantitative analysis IKS, this provides guideline how can be leveraging information Zimbabwe. use may utmost relevance agencies entities seeking achievement programmes.