Securing Maize Yields in Sub-Saharan Africa Amid Climatic Shifts: The Role of Irrigation and Water Harvesting Technologies
For large-scale farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa, the maize growing season is a pivotal period that aligns with the onset of rains. However, the increasing unpredictability of rainfall patterns due to climate change poses significant challenges. Prolonged dry spells and the risk of drought in major maize-producing areas, such as Zimbabwe’s southern regions and parts of South Africa, threaten to undermine yields, jeopardizing food security and economic stability. To mitigate these risks, investments in water harvesting and irrigation systems are crucial for sustaining maize production.