| 1. | Title: Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenically Modified Land Uses on Wetland Health: Case of Witbank Dam Catchment in South Africa.Citation: Mpandeli, S., Liphadzi, S., Mabhaudhi, C., Mabhaudhi, T. and Nhamo, L., 2024. Assessing the Impact of Anthropogenically Modified Land Uses on Wetland Health: Case of Witbank Dam Catchment in South Africa. Water, 16(16), p.2287. Abstract: Wetlands are critical ecological infrastructures that improve water quality, serve as habitat for fish and other aquatic life, accumulate floodwaters, and maintain surface water flow during dry periods. However, the health of wetlands has been compromised by anthropogenic activities that affect the constant supply of ecosystem services. This study assessed the impact of anthropogenically modified land use on wetland health in the Witbank Dam Catchment in South Africa, whose land use has been severely modified for agriculture and mining purposes. The study developed a model linking surface runoff generated in the catchment with land use and wetland typology to comprehend diffuse pollution from pollution-source land uses. Runoff data and related wetland spatial information were processed and analysed in a Geographic Information System (GIS) to estimate pollutants (agricultural nutrients and acid mine drainage) from runoff detained and released by wetlands. The analysis facilitated the assessment of the value of wetlands in enhancing water quality, as well as human and environmental health. The runoff volume from pollution-source land uses (urban areas, farmlands, and mining) was used to evaluate annual pollution levels. Wetland types are ranked according to their efficiency levels to filter pollutants. The assumption is that the difference between filtered and unfiltered runoff is the quantity of polluted runoff water discharged into the river system. The analysis has shown that 85% of polluted runoff generated in the catchment ends up in the river system. An important observation is that although wetlands have a substantial ability to absorb excess pollutants, they have finite boundaries. Once they reach their full holding capacity, they can no longer absorb any further pollutants. The excess is discharged into the river system, risking human and environmental health. This explains why the Limpopo River is heavily polluted resulting in the death of fish, crocodiles and other aquatic life.DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/w16162287 |
| 2. | Title: Analysing the contribution of trees and green spaces to household nutrition security in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South AfricaCitation: Bhebhe, Q.N., Siwela, M., Ojo, T.O., Hlatshwayo, S.I., Mabhaudhi, T., Slotow, R. and Ngidi, M.S., 2024. Analysing the contribution of trees and green spaces to household nutrition security in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, p.1451656.Abstract: Food from trees and green spaces can diversify diets and enhance food and nutrition security for households. However, sourcing food from these areas often receives little attention in addressing nutrition issues. This study assessed the contribution of trees and green spaces to household food consumption and nutrition in the eThekwini Municipal Area (EMA) located in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa, focusing on the Osindisweni and Maphephetheni communities, which are biologically diverse and face high poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity. Using stratified random sampling, 280 households were selected to complete questionnaires. Additionally, two Focus Group Discussions (FDG’s) and key informant interviews were conducted with community members and municipal representatives. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Household Food Consumption Score (FCS), Ordered Logistic Regression and a thematic analysis was done to analyse responses from Focus Group Discussions. The results showed that 93.6% of households consumed acceptable diets, with only 5.0% in the borderline and 1.4% in the poor categories. Specifically, Osindisweni and Maphephetheni households reported 93.3% and 93.7% acceptable diets, respectively. Ordered logistic regression indicated that both cultivated and uncultivated green spaces, household size, number of dependants, as well as access to training, agricultural assistance, extension, and advisory services negatively correlated with nutrition security. While communities recognized the contributions of trees and green spaces, they believed that these sources alone were insufficient. It is concluded that consumption of products from trees and green spaces likely did not improve the nutrition security of the households. To improve household nutrition security in eThekwini, it is vital to foster collaboration among stakeholders, including nutritionists and extension agents. Strengthening the knowledge of extension officers regarding the harvesting and consumption of food from trees and green spaces is crucial for disseminating effective guidance to households, thereby enhancing nutrition outcomes. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1451656 |
| 3. | Title: Impact of pre-existing depression and food insecurity on the trajectory of depressive symptomatology during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in South Africa: A panel analysis of nationally representative South African dataCitation: Dladla-Jaca, P., Ncama, B.P., Moodley, Y., Sobratee-Fajurally, N., Davids, R., Ngidi, M.S.C., Sutherland, C., Siwela, M., Mabhaudhi, T., Modi, A.T. and Slotow, R., 2024. Impact of pre-existing depression and food insecurity on the trajectory of depressive symptomatology during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak in South Africa: A panel analysis of nationally representative South African data. Food security, 16(4), pp.1009-1018.Abstract: We investigated the trajectory of depressive symptoms (“depression”) from the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in South Africa (March 2020) until 2021, between individuals with and without pre-pandemic depression, specifically regarding the role of food security. Our investigation used publicly available panel data (N = 6,930) from the South African National Income Dynamics Study Coronavirus Rapid Mobile Survey (SA-NIDS-CRAM from 2020–2021) on those who had also participated in the pre-pandemic South African National Income Dynamics Study (SA-NIDS, 2017) depression interview. We investigated trends in depressive symptomatology (based on a 2-item Patient Health Questionnaire) at SA-NIDS-CRAM Wave 2 (July 2020), Wave 3 (February 2021) and Wave 5 (May 2021). Generalized estimating equations (GEE) with post-estimation linear combinations of estimators were fitted to investigate the roles of pre-pandemic depression (based on 2017 SA-NIDS data) and food insecurity during the pandemic on depressive symptomatology. During the pandemic, the highest levels of depression were observed consistently among those with pre-pandemic depression and food insecurity; and were lowest among those without pre-pandemic depression and food security. Depressive symptomatology rose in nearly equal magnitude during the early phases of the pandemic in two groups: those without pre-pandemic depression but food insecure during the pandemic; as well as those with pre-pandemic depression but food secure during the pandemic. However, this dynamic changed later in the pandemic, when higher depressive symptomatology was observed in the group with both pre-pandemic depression and food insecurity, widening the gap between them from Wave 3 (adj β = 0.63, p < 0.01) to Wave 5 (adj β = 0.79, p < 0.01). Our results highlight the importance of addressing both population mental health and food insecurity, particularly at the early stages of a crisis/disaster. As we showed that mental health impact is linked to food insecurity during a pandemic, strengthening social protection measures, especially around food and nutrition, would help build resilience to crises in the long term.DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s12571-024-01448-x |
| 4. | Title: The iGains4Gains model guides irrigation water conservation and allocation to enhance nexus gains across water, food, carbon emissions, and nature.Citation: Lankford, B., Amdar, N., McCartney, M. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2025. The iGains4Gains model guides irrigation water conservation and allocation to enhance nexus gains across water, food, carbon emissions, and nature. Environmental Research: Food Systems, 2(1), p.015014.Abstract: This paper introduces and applies iGain4Gains, an Excel-based model, to reveal how changes to water conservation and allocation, and irrigation technology, can produce four nexus gains. These gains are; reduced aggregate water consumption, sustained crop production, lower carbon emissions, and enhanced water availability for nature. We developed the model with limited data and hypothetical future scenarios from the Amman–Zarqa basin in Jordan. Given its significant irrigation and urban water demands and difficult decisions regarding future water allocation and nexus choices, this basin is a highly appropriate case study. The paper’s primary aim is to demonstrate the iGains4Gains nexus model rather than to build an accurate hydrological model of the basin’s water resources. The model addresses two critical questions regarding increased irrigation efficiency. First, can irrigation efficiency and other factors, such as irrigated area, be applied to achieve real water savings while maintaining crop production, ensuring greenhouse gas emission reductions, and ‘freeing’ water for nature? Second, with the insight that water conservation is a distributive/allocative act, we ask who between four paracommoners (the proprietor irrigation system, neighbouring irrigation systems, society, and nature) benefits hydrologically from changes in irrigation efficiency? Recognising nexus gains are not always linear, positive and predictable, the model reveals that achieving all four gains simultaneously is difficult, likely leading to trade-offs such as water consumption rebounds or increased carbon emissions. Demonstrated by its use at a workshop in Jordan in February 2024, iGains4Gains can be used by students, scientists and decision-makers, to explore and understand nexus trade-offs connected to changes in irrigation management. The paper concludes with recommendations for governing water and irrigated agriculture in basins where large volumes of water are withdrawn and depleted by irrigation.DOI: https://doi.org/10.1088/2976-601X/adabe9 |
| 5. | Title: Review of water–energy–food nexus applications in the Global South.Citation: Mabhaudhi, T., Chibarabada, T.P., Taguta, C., Dirwai, T.L. and Ndeketeya, A., 2024. Review of water–energy–food nexus applications in the Global South. Cambridge Prisms: Water, 2, p.e9.Abstract: The study reviewed the applications of the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus for knowledge generation and decision-making in the Global South. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses protocol identified 336 studies from the Web of Science and Scopus datasets. One hundred eighty-five articles applied WEF nexus tools to improve the understanding of WEF nexus interactions and to show the potential of nexus applications. The other articles (151) focused on nexus applications to guide planning and decision support for resource allocation and policy formulation. Environment, climate, ecosystems, land, and socio-economics were other popular nexus dimensions, while waste and economy were considered to a lesser extent. Limitations associated with nexus applications included unavailability of data, uncertainties from data sources, scale mismatch and bias. The inability of nexus tools to capture the complex realities of WEF interactions is hindering adoption, especially for policy formulations and investment planning. Data limitations could be solved using a sound scientific basis to correct uncertainties and substitute unavailable data. Data gaps can be bridged by engaging stakeholders, who can provide local and indigenous knowledge. Despite the limitations, applying nexus tools could be useful in guiding resource management. Limitations associated with nexus applications included – investment planning. Plausible pathways for operationalising the WEF nexus are discussed. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1017/wat.2024.8 |
| 6. | Title: Linking weather and climate information services (WCIS) to Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practicesCitation: Mabhaudhi, T., Dirwai, T.L., Taguta, C., Senzanje, A., Abera, W., Govid, A., Dossou-Yovo, E.R., Aynekulu, E. and Chimonyo, V.G.P., 2025. Linking weather and climate information services (WCIS) to Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices. Climate Services, 37, p.100529.Abstract: Objective(s): This study synthesises existing knowledge on the linkages between Weather and Climate Information Services (WCIS) and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) practices. Specifically, it addresses the following questions: (1) What is the current status of knowledge on WCIS and CSA in the global south, specifically the African continent?, (2) Are WCIS effectively tailored and linked to CSA practices and technologies to improve agricultural water management (AWM) amongst smallholder farmers?, and (3) How can linking WCIS and CSA facilitate the identification, appraisal and prioritization of regionally differentiated and context-specific climate- appropriate technologies and policies that enhance agricultural water management at various levels (field, farm, scheme, and catchment)? Methods: The study used the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-Analysis Protocol (PRISMA-P) guidelines. It involved the search of the Scopus and Web of Science databases for peer-reviewed articles, books, and grey literature focussed on the global south. Results: The results revealed that seasonal forecasts were the main WCIS available to farmers who utilised them to plan predominantly for irrigation and water harvesting activities. Daily forecasts were linked to practices such as irrigation. The study also revealed that temperature and rainfall (amount and distribution) were predominantly disseminated to farmers through extension services. The dominant CSA practices used by farmers were carbon- smart (e.g., composting), water-smart practices (improved varieties, irrigation, RWH), weather-smart practices (IPM & crop insurance), and nitrogen-smart practices (organic fertiliser, crop diversification). Advisories on carbon-smart practices generally aligned closely with the start and end of rainfall information, while the water- smart practices were corroborated with the rainfall onset, end of rainfall season, and rainfall intensity. Weather smart practices were strongly linked to drought, temperature, and rainfall distribution, whereas nitrogen smart practices were linked with the end of rainfall and temperature. Conclusions: The study concluded that distinct linkages exist between WCIS and various CSA categories. The study argues that increasing access to WCIS can facilitate the adoption and scaling of CSA practices.DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cliser.2024.100529 |
| 7. | Title: If a fish comes out of the river and speaks, we should believe it: South African perspective on fish killsCitation: Burnett, M.J., O’Brien, G.C., Blackmore, A., Wade, M. and Downs, C.T., 2024. If a fish comes out of the river and speaks, we should believe it: South African perspective on fish kills. River Research and Applications.Abstract: In South Africa, fish kill events are increasing in frequency because of multiple stressors associated with managing natural resources. Despite the ecosystem services associated with fish, South Africa’s progressive legislation towards environmental protection seems to negate the management of fish kills. In this study, we provide an overview of reports and regulations associated with acute pollution spills resulting in fish kill events in South Africa. In addition, we highlight the implication of these using a fish kill event from 2019 on the Msunduzi River, South Africa, as a case study. The fish kill on the Msunduzi River showed a decline in relative abundance by up to 41%, and its ecological condition was already impaired by poor management. The poor condition of the Msunduzi River has jeopardised the recovery of the fish populations, and intervention is needed to restore the fish population that includes species red-listed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature. We found that despite the severity of fish kills and the detriment to the fish fauna, including near-threatened species, there is a general apathy, incapacity and lack of knowledge on managing fish kills in South Africa. In addition, although several legislated Acts have good intentions for protecting nature, they do not align and show that a fish kill is an afterthought rather than a need to prevent. Poor management practices have exacerbated this in an already stressed state from excessive use of environmental water. As a way forward, the alignment of the various Acts associated with various ministerial departments in South Africa is needed so that better protection of the environment may occur. Finally, we argue that the African proverb ‘If the fish comes out of the river to tell you that the crocodile has one eye, you should believe it’ is not considered when managing water resources and that with the present ecological state and water resource use there may be no fish to ‘come out of the water’ warning us that our water is unsafe even for human consumption and use DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/rra.4359 |
| 8. | Title: Potential for a commercial inland fishery or just another water storage facility at Spring Grove Dam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa?.Citation: Burnett, M.J., Hanzen, C., Whitehead, A., O’Brien, G.C. and Downs, C.T., 2024. Potential for a commercial inland fishery or just another water storage facility at Spring Grove Dam, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa?. African Journal of Aquatic Science, 49(2), pp.145-158.Abstract: South Africa’s inland fisheries are generally undervalued, though there is developing interest in the sector. Spring Grove Dam in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands became operational as a water storage facility in 2013 to provide water to the growing urban population in the province. We assessed whether the impoundment could potentially support commercial fisheries as had been proposed during its design and construction. We conducted seasonal fish community surveys from 2020 to 2021 at sites along the impoundment and in the mainstem of the Mooi River which feeds into the impoundment. We recorded a total of nine fish species, including six non-native fishes with invasive characteristics. Only three of 10 expected native species were found, namely the KwaZulu-Natal yellowfish Labeobarbus natalensis, chubbyhead barb Enteromius anoplus and African longfin eel Anguilla mossambica. Catch per unit effort (CPUE) was low in the sampling surveys using mostly gillnets and fyke nets, and relatively low yields (14.97 tonnes yr-1) were subsequently calculated for the impoundment, making commercial fisheries unviable. However, the existing subsistence and recreational fisheries for non-native salmonids and the native L. natalensis would benefit by controlling the distribution range and abundances of non-native centrachids Micropterus spp. We offer recommendations and suggestions for management plans for Spring Grove Dam in the context of local fish diversity, a changing climate, further construction of water storage facilities on east-flowing rivers in the province, and a nationally neglected inland fishery industry.DOI: https://doi.org/10.2989/16085914.2024.2373096 |
| 9. | Title: Underutilized crops for diverse, resilient and healthy agri-food systems: a systematic review of sub-Saharan Africa.Citation: Ndlovu, M., Scheelbeek, P., Ngidi, M. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2024. Underutilized crops for diverse, resilient and healthy agri-food systems: a systematic review of sub-Saharan Africa. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, p.1498402.Abstract: Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) faces increasing water scarcity, food and nutrition insecurity, poverty and inequality under climate change. Under these circumstances, promoting locally adapted and nutrient-dense crops is touted as a plausible climate adaptation strategy. We reviewed the utility of neglected and underutilized crop species (NUS) as a climate change adaptation strategy to diversify local food systems and diets and improve nutritional health and environmental outcomes in SSA. We conducted a systematic literature review using Web of Science and Scopus research databases. Of the 1,545 studies retrieved, 75 were included following a multi-level screening process on Covidence guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review consolidates fragmented knowledge on the application of NUS in different contexts. Despite growing interest, NUS remain gendered and stigmatized crops, marginalized and fragmented in research, development, and marketing efforts and lack explicit support from policy and decision-makers. Despite rhetoric purporting to support them, there is a worrying rise in policies and regulations that inadvertently hinder the development of these crops and reinforce dependence on a narrow basket of crops for food and nutrition security, undermining food sovereignty. Some NUS have received increasing recognition for their potential in the past decade. However, this is neither universal nor systematic, which makes scaling up necessary but challenging. Consequently, progress in mainstreaming NUS in local food systems continues to lag. Despite these challenges, NUS remain sub-Saharan Africa’s better-bet option for diversifying food systems and transitioning them to be equitable, inclusive, resilient and healthy; hence, NUS provide positive outcomes for people and the planet under climate change. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1498402 |
| 10 | Title: Why do farmers not irrigate all the areas equipped for irrigation? Lessons from Southern AfricaCitation: Nhamo, L., Mpandeli, S., Liphadzi, S., Dirwai, T.L., Mugiyo, H., Senzanje, A., Lankford, B.A. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2024. Why do farmers not irrigate all the areas equipped for irrigation? Lessons from Southern Africa. Agriculture, 14(8), pp.1218-1218.Abstract: The reliance on rainfed agriculture exposes southern Africa to low agricultural productivity and food and nutritional insecurity; yet, the region is endowed with vast irrigation potential. Extreme weather events including drought, floods, and heatwaves exacerbate the existing challenges, underscoring the need to improve agricultural water management as a climate change adaptation strategy. This mixed-methods review followed the Search, Appraisal, Synthesis, and Analysis (SALSA) framework to explore the irrigation opportunities and challenges in southern Africa by critically analysing the drivers and constraints of irrigation systems in southern Africa. The premise is to understand the reasons behind the abandonment of some of the areas equipped for irrigation. In cases where irrigation systems are present, the study assesses whether such technologies are effectively being used to generate the expected agricultural productivity gains, and what factors, in cases where that is not the case, constrain farmers from fully using the existing infrastructure. The review further discusses the enabling environment supporting irrigated agriculture and the role of gender in irrigation development. An assessment of the role of women in agriculture on the share of land equipped for irrigation to total cultivated land area, as well as on the proportion of the area equipped for irrigation versus the area that is actually irrigated is conducted. The review found a divergence between countries’ land areas equipped for irrigation and actually irrigated areas. Specific to irrigation expansion, the review rebuts the notion that increasing the irrigated area increases crop production and ensures food security. This may not always be true as irrigation development needs to consider the impacts on other closely linked water and energy sectors through transformative approaches like the water–energy–food (WEF) nexus and scenario planning. If well-planned and implemented, sustainable irrigated agriculture could be catalytic to transforming southern Africa’s food system to be inclusive, equitable, socially just, and resilient, benefiting people and the planet.DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture14081218 |
| 11 | Title: The impact of credit accessibility and information communication technology on the income of small-scale sugarcane farmers in Ndwedwe Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South AfricaCitation: Zulu, N.S., Hlatshwayo, S.I., Ojo, T.O., Slotow, R., Cele, T. and Ngidi, M.S.C., 2024. The impact of credit accessibility and information communication technology on the income of small-scale sugarcane farmers in Ndwedwe Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa. Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems, 8, p.1392647.Abstract: Introduction: Access to credit and information and communication technology (ICT) plays a pivotal role in enhancing the practices of small scale sugarcane farmers, impacting their financial, social, and economic wellbeing. However, many small-scale farmers need help accessing these resources, thereby affecting their ability to generate sustainable income. This study aimed to assess the factors influencing the adoption of ICT and access to credit and their subsequent impact on small-scale farmers’ income. Methods: Employing a multistage sampling technique, small scale farmers were selected as participants in the study. The recursive bivariate probit regression model was used to assess the factors affecting the adoption of ICT, and a selectivity-corrected ordinary least squares regression model was utilised to estimate the synergistic effect of ICT adoption and access to credit on the income of small-scale sugarcane farmers. Results and discussion: The findings revealed that approximately % of small scale farmers had access to credit, while more than % had adopted ICT. The results derived from the recursive bivariate probit (RBP) regression model indicated that access to credit, education, and extension support positively and significantly influenced the adoption of ICT. Conversely, marital status and non farm income exhibited a negative and significant influence on the adoption of ICT. Gender and marital status were positively and significantly associated with access to credit, whereas age, education, and non farm income showed a negative and significant relationship on access to credit. Subsequently, a selectivity corrected ordinary least square regression model analysis revealed that factors such as gender, marital status, extension, government support, and transportation costs positively and significantly influenced farmer’s income. In contrast, education, employment status, and non farm income exhibited a negative and significant influence on income.Conclusion and recommendations: The study concludes that socio demographic factors, such as gender, marital status, extension support, government support, and transportation costs, positively contribute to farmers’ income. Small scale sugarcane farmer involvement in other non-farm activities is associated with reduced farm income. This implies that farmers’ livelihoods options are reduced as they can only focus on sugarcane development as a source of income. There is a pressing need to educate small scale farmers on ICT and provide them with access to agricultural credit. Additionally, extension workers should offer advisory support to small scale farmers requiring assistance in accessing agricultural credit. There is a need to train sugarcane farmers on different agricultural income generating activities to reduce their over reliance on sugarcane development. By addressing the identified sociodemographic factors and implementing targeted policy interventions, stakeholders can foster an enabling environment for small scale farmers to thrive, ultimately contributing to the sustainable development of the sugarcane sector and the broader agricultural landscape in South Africa.DOI: https://doi.org/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1392647 |
| 12 | Title: Embracing complexities in agricultural water management through nexus planningCitation: Smith, M.D., Sikka, A., Taguta, C., Dirwai, T.L. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2024. Embracing complexities in agricultural water management through nexus planning. Irrigation and Drainage, 73(5), pp.1695-1716.Abstract: A major challenge for agricultural water management (AWM) in the 21st century is to feed a growing population in the face of increasing intersectoral resource competition, evolving diets, degradation, pandemics, geopolitical conflicts and climate change. This has to be achieved within the planetary boundaries and without compromising the livelihood and environmental (ecosystem) objectives linked to water, including provisioning, supporting and regulating services. This paper uses a systems and nexus lens to unravel the centrality and complexities in AWM, with particular emphasis on the interconnected dimensions and objectives of AWM, as well as its practices and technologies. AWM exists beyond water and food with linkages to human and environmental well-being. AWM needs to catalyse transformation and integrate approaches across systems, users and scales to meet its objectives in a changing climate. It must provide perspectives beyond productivity, managing water risks and safeguarding food security – as important as these are – and integrate our understanding of the interconnected climate, land, water, food and ecosystems to address planetary health outcomes. By doing so, AWM could catalyse contextualised, equitable, innovative solutions that acknowledge local socio-economic and institutional structures and limitations while catalysing sustainable development and climate resilience.DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/ird.3041 |
| 13 | Title: Sustainability of the Linkages Between Water–Energy–Food Resources Based on Structural Equation Modeling Under Changing Climate: A Case Study of Narok County (Kenya) and Vhembe District Municipality (South Africa)Citation: Zwane, N., Botai, J.O., Botai, C.M. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2024. Sustainability of the Linkages Between Water–Energy–Food Resources Based on Structural Equation Modeling Under Changing Climate: A Case Study of Narok County (Kenya) and Vhembe District Municipality (South Africa). Sustainability, 16(22), p.9689.Abstract: Due to the current and predicted increase in the global demand for water–energy–food (WEF) resources, as well as the inevitable linkages between the WEF sectors and sustainable development, the WEF nexus is rapidly being recognized as a method to effectively manage sustainable development. Many African countries still face challenges in terms of the demand for and accessibility of WEF resources. For this reason, a comparative study of two sites (Narok County and Vhembe District Municipality), which exhibit similar socio-economic, environmental, and technological circumstances, was undertaken. In the present study, we considered 218 questionnaire responses, which we analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (SEM) based on the WEF nexus constructs. This study is anchored on the null hypothesis (H0), whereby no interdependencies exist between the state of the climate and WEF resources, as constrained by sustainable development options. The results show that the proposed hypothesis does not hold, but rather, an alternative hypothesis (Ha)—there exist linkages between climate change and WEF resources—holds. This is demonstrated by the descriptive statistics indicating p values < 0.05 for both the t-test and the Bartlett test. Furthermore, analysis from the multi-regression, particularly for the model where we combined the sites, showed p values < 0.05 and higher adjusted r-squared values, which denoted a better fit. The communities in both study sites agree that the regions have experienced a scarcity of WEF resources due to climate change. The results show that climate change is an intrinsic part of the developmental options for the sustainable livelihood of both study sites, which aligns with the 2030 UN agenda on sustainable development goals targets. Moreover, the sustainable management of natural resources that are people- and planet-centric is crucial to climate change adaptation and mitigation, social justice, equity, and inclusion. The SEM results showed with significant confidence that the water, energy, and food sectors are closely interconnected; however, their impact on climate and sustainability is significantly different. Food has a direct positive impact on climate and sustainability, while both water and energy have an indirect negative impact. Moreover, the climate construct indicated a significant direct link to sustainability for all the relationships explored. This is particularly true because, in most underdeveloped countries, sustainable development and societal wellbeing heavily rely on goods and services derived from natural resources and the environment. This study contributes to the nexus modeling research field by introducing SEM as an innovative methodology over a single equation modeling framework in analyzing variables that have complex interrelationships, facilitating advanced WEF nexus resource governance.DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229689 |
| 14 | Title: Climate change and campylobacteriosis from chicken meat: The changing risk factors and their importanceCitation: Queenan, K. and Häsler, B., 2025. Climate change and campylobacteriosis from chicken meat: the changing risk factors and their importance. Food Control, p.111193.Abstract: Globally, chicken meat is currently the highest consumed meat per capita, and it continues to rise. Campylobacteriosis is one of the most reported gastrointestinal conditions, typically associated with chicken meat consumption. Cases are seasonal with summer and early autumn peaks. Similar seasonal peaks in Campylobacter prevalence in broilers and in retailed chicken meat have also been shown. Climate change impacts include increased ambient temperatures, rainfall, and humidity, and more frequent extreme weather events. These are likely to impact the risks associated with warmer-season foodborne diseases like campylobacteriosis. A literature review was conducted to identify the chicken related Campylobacter risk factors from farm to fork. Expert opinion was gathered using a modified Delphi survey in two rounds: 1) to identify risk factors whose likelihood of occurring would be impacted by climate change, 2) to determine the likelihood of the proposed change and the impact on campylobacteriosis from chicken meat consumption. Likert scores were used to calculate a mean risk level value. The latter was used together with a respondent agreement cut-off of over 66% to highlight risk factors most likely to change and to impact the risk of campylobacteriosis from chicken meat under climate change. Increasing temperatures and humidity and the extension of summer and early autumn seasons had the overall highest Mean Risk Level value (19/25). The increased prevalence of pests, especially flies had the second highest (16/25), and the highest respondent agreement level (94%). Several water-related risk factors were found likely to increase, including water drinker contamination, use of non-mains water sources, and those associated with water-based broiler house hygiene. Heat stress related risks were also highlighted, including the increased likelihood of on-farm Campylobacter positive animals and recent in-flock mortalities, a high degree of caecal colonisation, and faecal shedding of Campylobacter, and contaminating drinkers and carcase washing water. Other risk factors affected included higher consumption volumes and frequency of chicken meals, and broiler farmers having under 10 years of experience. These findings provide insights on how climate change may affect risk factor occurrence in the future and highlights those risks that decisionmakers should consider more closely in the future. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foodcont.2025.111193 |
| 15 | Title: Catalyzing sustainable development goals through the water-energy-food nexusCitation: Nhamo, L., Mpandeli, S., Liphadzi, S. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2025. Catalysing Sustainable Development Goals through the water-energy-food (WEF) nexus. iScience.Abstract: Water, energy, and food (WEF) are central to sustainable development as they are vital for socio-ecological and socio-economic sustainability and human and environmental wellbeing. How the three are used and managed is central to either the aggravation of climate change or the enhancement of resilience and adaptation strategies. This mixed transdisciplinary study developed a WEF nexus-based framework to guide strategic policy decisions to catalyze progress toward achieving sustainable development goals. The aim is to guide the cross-sectoral management of resources for sustainable development under climate change, increasing demand, depletion, degradation, and uncertainty. Past and present data on resource management was assessed to comprehend future availability toward achieving sustainable development outcomes for people and the planet. The fundamentals of holistic WEF resources management were assessed, highlighting the significance of transformative, cross-sectoral, and circular approaches in enhancing resource use efficiency and sustainability. This is critical for informing sustainable natural resources management decisions.DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2025.111902 |
| 16 | Title: Relationship between Village Chicken Availability and Dietary Diversity along a Rural–Urban GradientCitation: Mseleku, C., Chimonyo, M., Slotow, R. and Ngidi, M.S., 2024. Relationship between Village Chicken Availability and Dietary Diversity along a Rural–Urban Gradient. Nutrients, 16(13), p.2069.Abstract: Dietary diversity is one of the fundamental factors of nutritional security and a proxy used to measure diet quality. The objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between village chicken availability and the dietary diversity of households along a rural–urban gradient. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire in rural (n = 100), peri-urban (n = 100), and urban (n = 100) areas of Pietermaritzburg uMgungundlovu District, KwaZulu-Natal, in South Africa. A positive relationship between distance from the city center and village chicken flock sizes (p < 0.001) was observed. Consumption of vegetables increased with an increase in distance from the city center (p < 0.01). A quadratic relationship was observed between distance from the city center and consumption of livestock-derived foods (LDFs) (p < 0.05). Consumption of LDFs increased with an increase in village chicken flock sizes (p < 0.05). Consumption of vegetables increased with an increase in village chicken flock sizes (p < 0.01). Food variety score (FVS) increased with an increase in distance from the city center (p < 0.05). Assessing the availability of village chickens across rural–urban gradients is a worthy opportunity to utilize to improve households’ dietary diversity and alleviate poverty. It can be concluded that expanding village flock sizes could enhance the dietary diversity of households. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16132069 |
| 17 | Title: Catalyzing sustainable development goals through the water-energy-food nexus Citations: Nhamo, L., Mpandeli, S., Liphadzi, S. and Mabhaudhi, T., 2025. Catalyzing sustainable development goals through the water-energy-food nexus. Iscience, 28(2). Abstract: Water, energy, and food (WEF) are central to sustainable development as they are vital for socio-ecological and socio-economic sustainability and human and environmental wellbeing. How the three are used and managed is central to either the aggravation of climate change or the enhancement of resilience and adaptation strategies. This mixed transdisciplinary study developed a WEF nexus-based framework to guide strategic policy decisions to catalyze progress toward achieving sustainable development goals. The aim is to guide the cross-sectoral management of resources for sustainable development under climate change, increasing demand, depletion, degradation, and uncertainty. Past and present data on resource management was assessed to comprehend future availability toward achieving sustainable development outcomes for people and the planet. The fundamentals of holistic WEF resources management were assessed, highlighting the significance of transformative, cross-sectoral, and circular approaches in enhancing resource use efficiency and sustainability. This is critical for informing sustainable natural resources management decisions. Dio: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.isci.2025.111902 |
| 18 | Title: Multi-temporal analysis of taro crop water stress using high-resolution thermal and multispectral proximal sensing for improved resilience of smallholder farming systems. Smart Agricultural Technology, p.101337. Citations: Ndlovu, H.S., Odindi, J., Sibanda, M. and Mutanga, O., 2025. Multi-temporal analysis of taro crop water stress using high-resolution thermal and multispectral proximal sensing for improved resilience of smallholder farming systems. Smart Agricultural Technology, p.101337. Abstract: Taro, a neglected and underutilised crop, is identified as a promising future smart crop with significant potential to enhance food security while diversifying cropping systems. Despite its reported resilience to climate change impacts, taro’s physiological responses to water deficits, including increased leaf temperature and reduced stomatal conductance, can significantly reduce its productivity and yield. These responses vary with growth stages; limited canopy cover at emergence may expose soil to higher temperatures and intensify early stress, while peak transpiration during the vegetative stage increases crop sensitivity to water deficits. This study addresses the practical challenge of monitoring of taro crop water status throughout the growing season in data-scarce smallholder systems, where irrigation infrastructure is lacking and traditional field-based assessments are often infeasible. Advances in thermal remote sensing technologies and UAVs enable non-invasive, high-resolution monitoring of crop water status. This study presents a novel multi-temporal framework integrating UAV-acquired thermal and multispectral sensing with a deep neural network algorithm to estimate the stomatal conductance and leaf temperature of smallholder taro at emergence, vegetative and maturity stages. Findings showed that thermal data, together with derived thermal indices, are critical predictors for both stomatal conductance and leaf temperature across the growth stages. The vegetative stage exhibited the highest prediction accuracies for stomatal conductance (R2 of 0.96 and rRMSE of 12.86%) and leaf temperature (R2 of 0.95 and rRMSE of 1.11%). This study contributes an innovative, scalable solution for high-throughput water-stress monitoring in under-researched NUS crops, enabling informed decision-making for sustainable agriculture in resource-limited smallholder systems. Dio: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.atech.2025.101337 |
| 19 | Title: The Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Remotely Sensed Data and Biophysical Variables to Predict Maize Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) in Small-Scale Farming Systems. Citations: Dlamini, C.M., Odindi, J., Matongera, T.N. and Mutanga, O., 2025. The Use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Remotely Sensed Data and Biophysical Variables to Predict Maize Above-Ground Biomass (AGB) in Small-Scale Farming Systems. Remote Sensing Applications: Society and Environment, p.101706. Abstract: Considering the current and projected increase in human population, approaches to optimize crop productivity to meet the rising demand are paramount. Timely and accurate maize Above Ground Biomass (AGB) measurements allow for development of models that can precisely predict yield prior to harvesting, useful for managing cropping systems and food production. The development of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) as a new generation of robust remote sensing platforms, mounted with high-resolution sensors has allowed timely and accurate prediction of maize AGB in pursuit of sustaining food security. Hence, this study aimed to predict maize crop AGB in small-scale farming systems using UAV-remotely sensed data and landscape biophysical variables. The DJI Matrice 300 UAV mounted with a MicaSense multispectral camera was used to acquire high-resolution images at four phenological stages that covered the vegetative (V8 &V12) and reproductive stages (R2 & R5). Furthermore, in-situ plant biophysical measurements and landscape variables were acquired and combined with UAV-remotely sensed derived vegetation indices to model maize AGB using a Deep Neural Network (DNN) model. The optimal model for predicting maize AGB was achieved by combining optimal vegetation indices, with Leaf Area Index (LAI), leaf chlorophyll content, slope, aspect, and soil moisture across all phenological stages. Results showed that the V12 phenological stage yielded a better overall prediction accuracy (R2 = 0.75, RMSE = 0.07 kg/m2, rRMSE = 6.12 %) than the V8 (R2 = 0.71 RMSE = 0.10 kg/m2, rRMSE = 8.02 %), R2 (R2 = 0.73 RMSE = 0.09 kg/m2, rRMSE = 7.86 %), and R5 (R2 = 0.70 RMSE = 0.10 kg/m2, rRMSE = 8.51 %) growth phases. The study concludes that the V12 and R2 phenological stages are optimum for estimating maize AGB. This study contributes to a better understanding of maize crop monitoring efforts for improved production and food security. Dio: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rsase.2025.101706 |
