Towards a Framework for the Integration of Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Meteorological Science in Seasonal Climate Forecasting: The Case of Smallholder Farmers in Zimbabwe

Global evidence shows that seasonal climate forecasting can be a useful strategy in adapting to the effects of climate change on agricultural production. Meteorological science based seasonal climate forecasting hasbeen broadly promoted as an important adaptation tool in this regard. However, calls are now mounting for theintegration of meteorological based forecasting knowledge with traditional ecological knowledge based systems ofseasonal forecasting to minimize system deficiencies in forecasting. Using a mixed methods approach, the studyinvestigates the interface between the two knowledge systems and what integrating them would entail in practicein Matobo District, Zimbabwe. The paper finds that farmers are already utilizing both types of knowledge albeit inan uncoordinated fashion. Those farmers that integrate the two knowledge systems tended to make more definitivefarming decisions concerning seasonal climate patterns. The paper recommends a more systematic parallelintegration system that recognizes the importance of both knowledge systems.