Perceived effects of climate change on aquaculture production in Zambia: status, vulnerability factors, and adaptation strategies

• DOI: 10.3389/fsufs.2024.1348984
• Publication Date: 2024-07-17T04:58:21Z
• Authors: Sahya Maulu; Oliver J. Hasimuna; Moses Chibesa; Ian Bbole; Joseph Mphande; Mazuba Mwanaching...; Kundananji Nawanzi; Doubt Chibeya; Sillah Siavwapa; Joyce Mbewe; Lucy Namukonda; Friday Balungu; Inyambo Mumbula; Mwangala Kabika; Shimbetu Mweemba; Mwaanda Sikanyenyene; Enock Siankwilimba; Imikendu Imbwae; Hansel M. Mweetwa
• Keywords: Vulnerability; Adaptive capacity; Preparedness

Aquaculture plays a critical role in Zambia's food and nutrition security. However, aquaculture is highly vulnerable to the effects of changing climate which can lead economic losses, insecurity. In this study, we investigated perceived change on production Zambia, vulnerability factors, adaptation strategies. We used semi-structured structured questionnaires collect data from producers all provinces across country. Results revealed high (over 80%) awareness change, primarily attributed literacy levels access media. Producers occurrence climate-related changes such as rising temperature, altered rainfall patterns, cyclones frequency, disease outbreaks, impacting costs. Generally, results indicate medium perception temperature increased frequency flooding droughts Although did not appear affect cost, droughts, floods, cyclones, outbreaks showed significant association with Identified factors include reliance limited range fish species, absence insurance coverage, low adoption practices. Vulnerability vary regions, agroecological zone I (Eastern, Lusaka, Southern, Western) showing higher vulnerability. Despite this, many aren't implementing measures due financial limitations, species diversity constraints, insufficient knowledge alternative pursuits. Main strategies involve livelihood diversification adjustments cultivation periods infrastructure. To foster sustainability amid interventions farm insurance, research enhancing producer resilience are necessary.