Abstract

The impacts of climate change on ecosystems are profound and, if not mitigated, may pose a major threat to the environment. The challenges of climate change in South Africa have resulted in various adverse effects, such as heatwaves, droughts, and floods, especially in provinces like KwaZulu-Natal (KZN). This has huge consequences for agricultural production. Despite government efforts and strategies to mitigate the effects of climate change on the environment, many environmentalists argue that existing policies are inactive, while others recommend a consolidated approach involving key stakeholders. The objective of this study is to provide a critical overview of the impact of climate change on agricultural production in the province of KZN. In this way, the relevant context of the current problems is presented, and strategies for dealing with the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture are recommended. According to this study, climate change measures need to be embedded in national sustainable development strategies. These measures will only be successful if they are integrated into broader strategies to improve national development. Therefore, policymakers should leverage their positions to make informed and thus impactful decisions on relevant climate change issues affecting the agricultural sector in the province.