Adapting to climate change: Women's livelihood strategies in uMkhanyakude District Municipality

Abstract

Climate change has a profound effect on the livelihoods of women in rural areas, worsening existing inequalities and vulnerabilities. However, women are not passive; they actively look for ways to adapt to the effects of climate change. This article aims to explore the resources, strategies, and assets women employ to sustain their livelihoods and achieve livelihood outcomes amid changing climatic conditions. A mixed-method research approach was used to gather data from 74 women in the uMkhanyakude District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data was collected in 2021 using an online survey. The qualitative data obtained were analysed through thematic analysis, while the quantitative data were processed using IBM SPSS Statistics software and Microsoft Excel. Droughts have been identified as the most common form of extreme weather in the area, although floods occur as well. These extreme weather conditions result in water shortages, livestock loss, home destruction, agricultural job losses, decreased food affordability, and aggravated health problems. Women were observed to employ strategies that are primarily associated with social assets and financial resources to improve resilience. The research indicates that while the district municipality enhances women's capacity to protect their livelihoods amid climate change, it concurrently excludes them from participating in decision-making and educational initiatives. This exclusion underscores a significant gap in the adaptation strategies being developed. Although enhancing women's capabilities is advantageous, the study stresses the importance of combining this with inclusive decision-making and educational programmes.