Mopane worms (<i>Imbrasia belina</i>) value chain: Experiences of rural women on the impact of climate change and environmental sustainability in Mangwe District

Abstract

Mopane worms provide a livelihood source for rural households in the Mangwe district. The study sought to explore the effects of a  changing climate across the Mopane worm value chain through an analysis of the experiences and perspectives of rural women. In  addition, the study aimed to investigate the correlation between climate change, Mopane worm availability and rural livelihoods. The  research study was conducted in three wards of Mangwe district, namely; Madabe, Tshitshi and Ngwanyana wards. It was envisaged that  identifying the vulnerabilities associated with climate change and the Mopane worm value chain would assist stakeholders in  implementing measures to enhance the resilience of the value chain. The research study employed a qualitative research design because  of its suitability to represent the perceptions of rural women who play a key role in the Mopane worm resource value chain. The majority  of rural women interviewed were unemployed and to them, Mopane worms were a source of livelihood in good years when Mopane  worms were available. The findings of the study revealed that local communities in the Mangwe district are observant that climate is  changing. Furthermore, the study established that there was a reduction in Mopane worms due to a recurring lack of rainfall, coupled  with high temperatures. These extreme conditions were militating against Mopane worm availability in the district's March/April and  December/January seasons. This subsequently affects Mopane worm-dependent livelihoods in the district as the decline in the Mopane worm population causes a reduction in nutrition and income for vulnerable households. As a result of the declining Mopane worm  population, women end up walking long distances to explore other Mopane worm sources which are usually far from their localities. In  light of these findings, the study suggests the need for a multi-sectoral approach to harness the Mopane worm as a commercial resource  by establishing and promoting sustainable market linkages that will improve profits for rural women. Climate change awareness must be  done in communities of Mangwe district to consciencentise people on the effects of climate change across the Mopane worm value chain  and the importance of sustainable harvesting of this forestry resource in the context of climate change vulnerabilities.