The potential for digital adaptation in agriculture in the Zambezi River Basin countries: regional assessment report

The main objectives of this study were to assess the prevalent and most challenging climate risks in the Zambezi River Basin countries, understand the role of digital technology in climate adaptation, and thereby propose interventions to accelerate and scale up the use of digital technology in climate adaptation for small farmers and businesses. The report is based on the findings of the rigorous literature review, analysis of secondary data, and a series of stakeholder consultations conducted in 2023.

According to the findings, the nature and extent of climate risks in the Zambezi basin countries vary across the countries, and the severity is increasing over time, calling for context-specific solutions. The extent, popularity, and use of digital technologies in climate adaptation are in their infancy but vary across countries and are increasing in use. The most frequently used digital technologies with the potential for climate adaptation include radios, satellite televisions, mobile phones, drones, computers, mobile applications, and data-enabled insurance services. However, the adoption and scaling of digital technologies are replete with many constraints and challenges, mostly related to availability, access, affordability, issues related to gender and social inclusion, absence of an appropriate enabling environment, poor macroeconomic conditions, cultural and family norms, and poor user skills. Adopting data-enabled technologies is constrained by low digital penetration, high mobile data costs, low levels of literacy, cyber-safety concerns, and poor requisite infrastructure.

The study recommends measures needed to address the issues related to the enabling environment, capacity, skills, and technological characteristics. It is important to continue awareness campaigns and skill development programs through formal and informal education systems at national and regional levels to enhance knowledge and skills on the availability, relevance, and use of digital technologies. A regional framework on digitization and a stringent cyber security regulatory framework for the region and its member states are needed. Measures are proposed to reduce digital technologies and increase affordability. Addressing the gender disparity associated with ownership of mobile phones, usage skills, and financial access, may liberate women from cultural barriers that prevent them from using mobile technology for livelihood activities. Non-farm income, including remittances and other sources of resilience, is important and should be supported in program design.

Citation