Livelihood diversification through small-scale fisheries: A case study of Cactus Poort Dam, Redcliff Town, Zimbabwe.

Abstract

Small-scale fisheries have become an important livelihood option for communities facing economic hardship. This study examined how fishing at Cactus Poort Dam in Redcliff Town, Zimbabwe, supports livelihood diversification following the collapse of ZISCO Steel, which resulted in widespread unemployment and economic decline. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, the research explored how households combine fishing with other income-generating activities to strengthen resilience. A mixed-methods approach was used, involving 23 participants, including fishers, fish traders, boat operators, and household members engaged in fish processing. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were examined through thematic analysis. The findings show that fishing contributes significantly to household income and food security, although it is generally practiced as a supplementary rather than a primary livelihood activity. Many participants combined fishing with vending, urban agriculture, artisanal mining, and informal trading to diversify income sources and reduce economic vulnerability. Fishing was largely seasonal, with 71% of respondents engaging in the activity on a monthly basis. About 40% of participants consumed part of their catch while selling the remainder, while nearly one-third relied mainly on fish for household consumption. The most commonly harvested species were tilapia, largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides), and catfish (Clarias gariepinus). The study concludes that small-scale fisheries enhance livelihood resilience through low entry costs, flexible participation, and accessible economic opportunities. Strengthening governance, improving market access, expanding storage facilities, and promoting community-based management could further increase the contribution of fisheries to sustainable livelihoods in Redcliff and other economically vulnerable communities.