Bouncing on the Pulse – Sustainable Intensification and Resilience to Climatic Risk in Smallholder Fields of Sub-Humid Zimbabwe

Summary

In many parts of sub-Saharan Africa, smallholder farmers face low yields, poor soils and irregular rainfall. This thesis examined how larger maize fertilization and greater use of legumes can sustainably increase food production and help cope with climate variability. Field experiments and crop simulations identified key factors limiting crop yields in smallholder farms and how improved management can address them. Virtual experiments tested how maize and legumes respond to changing rainfall patterns. Results showed that combining greater maize fertilization with legume diversification improved production, soil fertility, and stability despite some trade-offs. Rainfall timing and amount strongly influenced yields and explained differences in stress between maize and legumes. The study shows that poor management—especially pest and disease pressure in legumes—and limited inputs restrict the benefits of sustainable intensification. Overcoming these limits is key to enhancing the resilience of smallholder farmers to achieve food security and poverty reduction.