1. Introduction

Drought is a temporary meteorological event that is a result of a shortage of precipitation over an extended period of time compared to average conditions, which leads to longer periods of rainfall (Laura, 2021). Currently Zimbabwe has been affected by this meteorological event in the 2023-2024 rain season due to climate changes, and that has compromised food security in the country, directly affecting over 6 million people (SADC, 2024) and (OCHA, 2024). Since the country has been hit by a drought, it affects the normal day to day lifestyle of the nation due to its impacts. These impacts can be threats, that can vary from simple effects to severe threats such as human deaths. A drought can affect a country in different aspects from healthcare, food insecurities, clean water crisis, wild life migration, economy and many other aspects that are linked to the availability of adequate precipitation. This paper attempts to highlight some of the applications of geomatics in managing some effects of drought that the nation is facing.

2. Zimbabwe and Drought

Based on historical data patterns shown in table 1, the country has been hit by several droughts before and will likely experience more frequent droughts and other climatic shocks. More work has to be done to get the nation ready for these unforeseen occurrences since climate shocks are starting to become the new normal, and do not have a predictable pattern as shown by the bar chart 1.1 shown in the next page.

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About the Author

Arshley Mbano: Engineering Surveyor and Advocate for Sustainable Development

Arshley Mbano is a skilled Engineering Surveyor with a wealth of experience in executing critical infrastructure projects, including sewer lines, water lines, and irrigation systems. His work spans across Zimbabwe and South Africa, where he has successfully overseen the construction of several highways. With a strong focus on project management and site surveying, Arshley ensures that each project meets rigorous technical specifications while addressing the needs of local communities.

Beyond his technical expertise, Arshley is deeply passionate about research, particularly in relation to hunger, drought, and sustainable development. He actively engages in studies that explore the impacts of climate change on agricultural practices and water resources. This research informs his engineering projects, allowing him to integrate solutions that mitigate drought effects and promote efficient water management—essential for enhancing food security in vulnerable regions.

Arshley aligns his work with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger). He believes in the power of community engagement and often collaborates with local organizations to raise awareness about sustainable practices. By empowering communities with knowledge and resources, Arshley strives to create resilient infrastructures that support sustainable agriculture and improve overall quality of life.