Edible Insects: A Climate-Resilient and Inclusive Livelihood Strategy for Zimbabwe

Abstract

Innovative farming methods are critical in a world under siege of increasing climate change induced food insecurity. This study explores the transformative opportunity that edible insects commercial farming propounds towards climate change livelihood adaptation in Zimbabwe. The study focuses on marginalised groups - women and the youth - examining how gendered challenges create barriers to decision-making, accessing resources and full participation and growth in the edible insect value chain in the country. 20 participants engaged in the edible insects’ sector were engaged through semi-structured qualitative individual interviews, three focus group discussions and field observations. The data were then analysed to identify patterns leading to the formulation of key themes. The findings suggest that commercialising the production of edible insects increases food security, advances women and youths’ business agency within the agrobusiness sector, increases income, all while promoting environmental sustainability. However, despite the critical role that women play in the edible insects’ value chain - from insect gathering, preparation and retailing, they face a multitude of challenges and barriers in accessing business resources, markets and in decision-making power. Likewise, the youth though drawn to the edible insects’ sector due to its attractive income potential and low entry barriers, face challenges in the form of lack of business, technical and structural support. The commercial production of edible insects provides an attainable means towards climate change resilience and inclusive development in Zimbabwe. However, in order to realise this pathway’s full potential, targeted support for the youth and gender transformative support for women in the edible insects’ value chain are necessary from both the private and public sectors. Thus, through the engagement of the business’ ecosystem towards overcoming these barriers and challenges, edible insects’ production can contribute to sustainability and equity in Zimbabwe.