Community Perceptions of the Impact of Climate Change on Child Nutrition: A Case of the Chilonga Community, Chiredzi, Zimbabwe

This study investigated community perceptions of the impact of climate change on child nutrition in rural Chilonga, Chiredzi South district. The study used a qualitative case study design and interviewed 40 purposefully selected participants, including community leaders, farmers, government health and agriculture experts, pregnant and lactating women, and caregivers of children under 5. Data were also collected through observations in the field. Findings indicate that the Chilonga community is severely impacted by climate change, resulting in significant agricultural losses, low food production, water scarcity, and consequently, various forms of child malnutrition. Adding to the distress, climate change fosters a breeding ground for vector-borne diseases, compounding the community’s woes. As women shoulder augmented household responsibilities due to climate-induced challenges, their time for childcare practices dwindles.