This paper examines the causes of chronic poverty in the remote rural areas (RRAs) of Zimbabwe’s semi-arid communal lands. It explores what can be done to improve links between policy-makers and programme designers and poor farm households at risk from drought and examines whether diversification into non-farming occupations offers an exit route from poverty. Lastly we suggest a number of areas for pro-poor policy intervention, including social protection and a focus on improved delivery of social services, (appropriate) agricultural extension and propoor financial sector reform.