Determinants of Drought Risk Reduction Adoption Decisions: A Case Study of Gwembe Rural Communities-Zambia

Abstract

Like any other natural hazards, the frequency and intensity of drought events are increasingly being understood within the context of global climate variability. The subsequent growing emphasis on disaster risk management entails adopting risk reduction initiatives for resilience building. The study aimed to establish perceived determinants of household adoption decisions of drought risk reduction strategies in Gwembe rural. An interpretative paradigm underpinned this study, with a qualitative approach confined to a case study. The study engaged 140 participants selected through purposive and convenience sampling and subjected to open-ended, in-depth interviews. The study utilised thematic data analysis with the aid of Nvivo Pro 12. Findings showed that determinants of drought risk reduction adoption decisions were predominantly socio-economic, environmental and institutional based. It was concluded that some interconnectedness existed between perceived determinants of adoption decisions and constraints faced in adopting risk reduction initiatives. Additionally, low adoption and high levels of no adoption tendencies affected the progression of resilience building to future drought events. A project planning approach incorporating strategies for addressing significant constraints and adopting risk reduction was recommended.