Emerging New Farming Practices and their Impact on the Management of Woodlots in A1 Resettlement Areas of Mashonaland Central Province in Zimbabwe

Type Journal Article - Asian Development Policy Review
Title Emerging New Farming Practices and their Impact on the Management of Woodlots in A1 Resettlement Areas of Mashonaland Central Province in Zimbabwe
Author(s)
Volume 2
Issue 1
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2014
Page numbers 1-19
URL http://www.aessweb.com/pdf-files/ADPR-2014-2(1)-1-19.pdf
Abstract
The study reflected on the impact of new farming methods on the management of woodlots in A1
resettlement areas in Mashonaland Central Province in Zimbabwe. Data for the study were
collected through in-depth interviews, direct observations and documentary review so as to
triangulate the evidence. A structured household questionnaire was used to collect socio-economic
and production data pertaining to A1 farms. The study revealed that the use of wood fuel in
tobacco curing has contributed to the destruction of woodlots. Meanwhile, there is a gradual
breakdown of local systems for natural resource management and the dearth of any emerging
alternative institutions. The study recommended the integration of positive elements of traditional
institutional set up of local communities to ensure sustainable use of natural resources and
continued livelihood streams. The government should provide and empower A1 farmers with
expertise on extension methods that focus on conservation and agricultural technologies that are
environmentally friendly.

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