Rural livelihood diversification: A household adaptive strategy against flood variability in the Okavango Delta, Botswana

Livelihood diversification emerges as a critical adaptive strategy for households in the Okavango Delta, Botswana, to mitigate flood variability. A survey of 623 households across five villages, supplemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews, revealed that diversifying income sources significantly enhances resilience against flooding. However, public transfers dominate household incomes, highlighting the region's socio-economic vulnerabilities and exposure to multiple shocks beyond climate variability. While current strategies may suffice for present flood patterns, they are likely insufficient for future global climate change, underscoring the need for broader adaptive measures.

Motsholapheko, M. R., Kgathi, D. L., & Vanderpost, C. (2012). Rural livelihood diversification: A household adaptive strategy against flood variability in the Okavango Delta, Botswana. Agrekon, 51(4), 41–62. https://doi.org/10.1080/03031853.2012.741204