The contribution of indigenous fruit tree species to household food security in the Dande Valley in northeast Zimbabwe

The purpose of this research was to assess the rationale of farmer households in Chadereka, Machaya and Hoya Wards of Centenary District in the Dande Valley of northeast Zimbabwe in conserving indigenous fruit tree species on land cleared for cultivation and settlement, as well as in the natural woodland. Personal interviews, surveys, physical walks and site inspections were undertaken to identify the conservation strategies adopted and solicit the acknowledged rationale from household heads. A three-way interaction system was observed in which household economic need prompts the elaborate species conservation observed in the study area, buoyed by community norms, controls and social and cultural benefit flows that underpin the species' continued existence.; The study shows that the use and application of species products transcend seasonal utility, contrary to wild fruit consumption literature, which tends to emphasize casual pickings when fruits are in season. The existence through fruit tree species of a diversity of items and systems which households can draw on by choice or during times of food stress in itself provides food security in the communal area sector of Zimbabwe. The commercial exploitation of such products as fruits, wines and other bi-products is also shown to hold potential for high incomes and revenue for both local households and the District authority, as well as regional development based on value adding processing of local natural resources.; Existing market inefficiencies and policy limitations were identified which need to be addressed to enable households to effectively access incomes and returns from exchanges of the products that are commensurate with their efforts in the sustainable management of the fruit tree species. The study also recommends greater availability of market information and increased species research in order to enhance the commercial value of products of the fruit species.