Across the African continent, farmers are facing the challenges of climate change by combining traditional methods with modern technologies. With a young population and vast uncultivated land, Africa should be able to feed itself, but many people still struggle to afford a healthy diet due to conflict and lack of investment. In Zimbabwe, small-scale farmer James Tshuma is using ancient fertilizer methods to keep a small garden thriving amid a worsening drought. By utilizing livestock droppings, plant residue, and other biodegradable items, Tshuma is able to maintain his garden and feed his family. Climate change has led to poor soil fertility in much of sub-Saharan Africa, forcing farmers to adapt by blending traditional practices with new technologies.
In Somalia, greenhouses are revolutionizing agriculture in a country marred by conflict and climate shocks. Shoppers in the capital, Mogadishu, are now able to purchase locally produced vegetables year-round, providing a sense of security and stability in a region that has faced decades of turmoil. The introduction of more than 250 greenhouses has not only improved access to fresh produce but also created employment opportunities for the country’s young population. While Somalia has historically relied on imported vegetables, the shift to greenhouse farming is transforming the local agriculture sector and providing a more sustainable livelihood for pastoralist herders who have been impacted by livestock losses.
In Kenya, a new climate-smart bean variety called “Nyota” or “star” is offering hope to farmers in a region experiencing reduced rainfall. Developed through collaboration between research organizations, the new bean variety is adapted to diverse climatic conditions and matures quickly to withstand drought. Farmers like Benson Gitonga are seeing increased yields and profits thanks to the resilience of the Nyota bean variety. With annual bean production falling short of demand in Kenya, the introduction of this new variety could help bolster national food security and improve farmers’ livelihoods. Additionally, the bean variety’s low flatulence levels make it an appealing choice for customers, highlighting the multiple benefits of climate-smart agriculture practices.
Despite facing the worst effects of climate change while contributing the least to the problem, African farmers are demonstrating resilience and innovation in adapting to a changing environment. By combining traditional farming methods with new technologies, farmers are finding ways to overcome the challenges posed by climate change and ensure food security for the continent’s growing population. From ancient fertilizer practices in Zimbabwe to the greenhouse revolution in Somalia and the introduction of climate-smart bean varieties in Kenya, African farmers are leading the way in sustainable agriculture practices. As the world grapples with the consequences of a warming planet, the agricultural sector in Africa serves as a model for adaptation and resilience in the face of climate change.
