This contributed volume offers a unique perspective on building resilience in the smallholder farming sector in Southern Africa. While many publications in modern agriculture only consider large-scale industrialized methods, this local research better reflects the reality of farmers in the semi-arid climate of southern Africa. The authors put a focus on agro-ecology, in order to broaden the understanding of a practical and sustainable approach to agriculture. The first collection of chapters looks at various methods that can help to build more resilient farms. Most studies therefore looked at how farmers could diversify their livelihood and combat climate change or drought. Afterwards, different successful and easy maintainable models in the south African climate, are presented - drawing from the local cultural heritage. The last focus area relates to the protection of crops and livestock from common pests. With this collection, the authors want to educate academics & professionals in the African agriculture sector, about rural practices.

Ronald Mandumbu Ph.D is an associate professor in the department of crop science at Bindura University of Science Education in Zimbabwe. His research currently focusses on climate resilient agriculture, rainwater harvesting and the role of neglected legumes and cereals in building resilience. He holds a Ph.D in crop science from the University of Fort Hare in South Africa, an Msc in crop Protection and a Bsc (hons) in Crop Science from the University of Zimbabwe. He teaches crop ecology and physiology and crop protection to undergraduate students and sustainable crop production to masters students. He has supervised more than 25 graduate students. He has published over 55 articles and 6 book chapters in the areas of sustainable crop production.Mashingaidze AB is a professor who served in the department of crop science at Chinhoyi University of science and Technology. He holds a Ph.D from Wageningen University in the Netherlands, Msc crop production and physiology (Iowa State University, USA) and a Bsc (Hons) Crop science from the University of Zimbabwe. He has served as a Chairperson in the department of Crop Science at the University of Zimbabwe. He has also been with Nyagatare University in Rwanda. He is currently with JIMAT consultancy firm in Zimbabwe. He has supervised more than 25 graduate students. He has more than 50 articles in referred journals.Gadzirayi CT Ph.D is an associate professor who served in the department of Agriculture Economics, extension and education at Bindura University of Science Education. He holds a Ph.D in animal science and production from Bindura University of Science Education, MED in Animal Science and Bed Agriculture both from the University of Zimbabwe. He is currently with CIRAD Zimbabwe. He has supervised more than 20 graduate students and more than 50 research articles and book chapters.