Farmers in South Africa’s Limpopo face unpredictable rainfall, uncertain futures

Malala Drift, situated near the town of Musina in South Africa's Limpopo province, is witnessing the impact of drought and unreliable water access on farmers' livelihoods. Some have abandoned crop production due to insufficient water, while others persist despite the challenging circumstances. The farms are located along the Limpopo River, which serves as the border between South Africa and Zimbabwe. Despite the proximity to the river, access to a dependable water supply remains uncertain.

Farmers report that rainfall has become more erratic over the past decade, and when the river levels drop, they sometimes resort to hiring excavation companies to dig into the riverbed to secure water, increasing the expenses of maintaining their farms. At one of the farms visited by Mongabay, evidence of water scarcity is evident. Stakes that once supported tomato plants are scattered around the property, while irrigation pipes are concealed by thick grass. No crops are growing.

Kanny Ndou, a former laborer who now looks after the property, explains that the farm once produced potatoes, butternut squash, and tomatoes for sale in Musina. However, after 10 years, the owner ceased farming in 2025, citing unreliable water supply as the reason. "We used to grow a variety of vegetables for sale in Musina, but due to inconsistent water supply, the farm decided to stop farming last year," Ndou stated.

For years, farmers in the region have encountered unpredictable outcomes, experiencing good harvests one season and poor ones the next.