Table 1 Some characteristics and description of the survey study sites

Kadoma

1

Mashonaland West

III - IV

Found on approximately 18°19′S longitude and latitude 29°53′ E, moderate to low average rainfall 450 - 600 mm, semi-extensive farming of livestock and drought resistant fodder crops [27]

2

5

12

Matobo

13

Matabeleland South

IV

District is found at 20°23′È latitude and 28°30′S longitude. Average rainfall is 450–650 mm, area is good for semi-extensive livestock and game ranching, common crops include drought resistant maize, sorghum and millet [28]

16

24

25

Chiredzi

7

Masvingo

V

Area is found at about 31°30′S longitude, 21°10′E latitude. It is one of the largest districts in Zimbabwe with an average uncertain annual rainfall < 450 mm; suitable for extensive cattle production and game ranching [28]

10

11

13

Muzarabani

4

Mashonaland Central

V

District is located at a longitude of 16⁰E and latitude of 31⁰S along the Mozambique – Zimbabwe border. Average annual rainfall < 450 mm. The area is suitable for subsistence smallholder farming, cattle production and game ranching [28]

5

6

7