North Florida’s very own news reporter, Jane Sheppard, brings to you an insightful exploration of the challenges faced by African farmers in the face of climate change, and their innovative responses. Drawing on her years of experience and her knack for demystifying complex topics, Sheppard presents a detailed report packed with engaging facts and personal anecdotes.
The African Agricultural Crisis
Africa, the continent with the world’s youngest population, is under immense pressure as it faces the brunt of global warming while contributing least to the problem. With over 60% of the world’s uncultivated land, experts believe Africa should be able to feed its booming population. However, due to factors like conflict and lack of investment, three out of four people in Africa cannot afford a healthy diet, as per a report last year by the African Union and United Nations agencies.
From Zimbabwe: Looking Back to Move Forward
In Zimbabwe, a drought worsened by the El Nino phenomenon has driven small-scale farmer James Tshuma to return to ancient methods of farming. In a small garden, Tshuma has grown a patch of green vegetables, sustained by homemade organic manure and fertilizer. He uses a variety of biodegradable items, from livestock droppings to crushed animal bones. This method of recycling nutrients is a throwback to the practices of his ancestors before the introduction of chemicals and inorganic fertilizers.
- Wonder Ngezimana, an associate professor of crop science at Zimbabwe’s Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, points out that climate change is worsening sub-Saharan Africa’s ongoing problem of poor soil fertility.
- Ngezimana also emphasizes the importance of organic fertilizers which, apart from being rich in nitrogen, increase the soil’s carbon content and ability to retain moisture.
Return to Traditional Crops
Another significant shift in African agriculture is the return to traditional crops such as millets, sorghum, and legumes. These drought-resistant staples, which were overtaken by exotic white corn in the early 20th century, are being cultivated extensively in recent years. Edible leaves from drought-resistant plants, previously considered weeds, are also making a comeback in the African diet.
A Greenhouse Revolution in Somalia
In Somalia, a country prone to conflict, greenhouses are changing the lives of people. Shoppers like Sucdi Hassan are delighted with the fresh, locally produced vegetables now available. More than 250 greenhouses spread across Mogadishu and its outskirts are now ensuring year-round supplies of fruits and vegetables.
- These greenhouses also provide employment opportunities for the predominantly young population of Somalia.
- Traditionally nomadic pastoralists are now considering settling down and growing crops, as greenhouse farming offers a more resilient and sustainable livelihood option.
The Resilient Bean of Kenya
In Kenya, a new climate-smart bean variety brings hope to farmers in regions with reduced rainfall. The variety, called “Nyota” or “star” in Swahili, is the result of a collaboration between scientists from the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, the Alliance of Bioversity International, and the research organization International Center for Tropical Agriculture.
Farmer Benson Gitonga has seen his yield and profits increase due to the new bean variety. This variety matures quickly, ready for harvesting before the rains disappear. Additionally, these beans have low flatulence levels, making them a popular choice among consumers.
Jane Sheppard’s reporting underscores the resilience and resourcefulness of African farmers. In the face of climate change and other challenges, their innovative approaches to agriculture offer hope for a sustainable future.
