Climate change impacts, vulnerability and adaptation in Zimbabwe

This paper reviews impacts, vulnerability and adaptation to climate change in Zimbabwe, with the intention of providing a broad overview of the key issues related to climate change facing this particular country. It draws on a set of background papers that were produced by the Policy and Advocacy for Climate Change in Zimbabwe project funded by the UK Department for International Development (DfID) and implemented by IIED, the Zimbabwe Regional Environment Organisation (ZERO), and Dialogue on Shelter. These papers examine climate trends, scenarios and projections for Zimbabwe and draw upon a variety of case studies on adaptation projects (see Annex 1). This working paper highlights the main themes, findings and conclusions arising from these studies and examines their implications for future research and policy. While its primary relevance is for policymakers, practitioners and researchers in Zimbabwe, it is anticipated that the general lessons are relevant for a broader set of countries that are dealing with similar environmental, demographic and institutional challenges, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.