Building Climate Resilience in Tomato Production: Evidence from Smallholder Farmers in Peri-Urban Zambia

Abstract

Climate variability poses a growing threat to tomato production among smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa, yet evidence on the effectiveness of farm-level adaptation strategies remains limited. This study assessed the contribution of climate adaptation practices to tomato productivity among 150 smallholder farmers in Lusaka West, Zambia, using a convergent mixed-methods design. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Most farmers (88%) reported experiencing climate variability, mainly through irregular rainfall, drought, and rising temperatures. Adaptation strategies were widely adopted (86%), with irrigation and improved seed varieties being the most common. About 76% of respondents reported improved tomato yields and 72% reported increased household income following adaptation. A strong positive relationship was observed between adaptation strategies and tomato yields (r = 0.718, p < 0.001), indicating that increased adoption of adaptation practices significantly enhanced production performance. Qualitative findings confirmed that adaptation improved resilience but highlighted financial constraints, limited irrigation infrastructure, and inadequate climate information as major barriers. The study concludes that climate adaptation strategies strengthen the resilience and productivity of smallholder tomato farming systems. Strengthening extension services, expanding access to affordable irrigation technologies, and promoting climate-smart agriculture are essential for enhancing sustainable horticultural production and food security in Zambia.