Agriculture and Rural Livelihoods / Agriculture et moyens de subsistance en milieu rurale

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Stories of change
(AfricaAdapt, Dakar, SN, 2011-05) AfricaAdapt
Stories of Change come from participants of Meet and Greet events and the AfricaAdapt Symposium, and Climate Change Adaptation in Africa (CCAA)/ PAR (participatory action) researchers. Interviews and stories represent different districts and include male and female participants from local and regional organizations and groups. From one women’s group participant interview: "The performance on climate change awareness and environmental management has been very successful. We have excelled across the district. We are always invited to perform at functions organized at the district level where high-ranking officials are present. This has given our group and AfricaAdapt wide visibility."
Tales of AfricaAdapt : harnessing knowledge for adaptation to climate change in Africa
(AfricaAdapt, Dakar, SN, 2011) AfricaAdapt
This newsletter introduces the AfricaAdapt network and presents current achievements with plans moving beyond 2012. It showcases three stories about how the network has helped local communities to become more aware of, and prepare for the impacts of climate change on their livelihoods. These activities were funded through the network’s Knowledge Sharing Innovation Fund. The network aims at facilitating the flow of knowledge on adaptation to climate change for sustainable livelihoods among researchers, policy makers, civil-society organisations and vulnerable communities.
Enhancing response farming for improved strategic and tactical agronomic adaptation to seasonal rainfall variability under the semi-arid conditions of Ethiopia
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, TZ, 2013) Admassu, Habtamu
The research developed a strategic predictor capable of advanced prediction of rainfall parameters by a lead time of two to three months, a marked improvement over previous forecasting. Using the amount of off-season and cumulative early-season rainfall, seventeen prediction models that can facilitate in-season tactical response farming (RF) were developed. Predictive capacity is crucial for rainfall variability and farming conditions in the drylands of Ethiopia. An increased maize grain yield by 70% was achieved from enhanced RF (ERF) forecasts which guided maize production strategy, and was tested at 55 sites during the 2010-11 seasons.
Designing, developing and testing of a seeder for tree seeding and in situ water harvesting
(Research Publisher, 2013) Ali Babiker, Imad-eldin; Yousif, Lotfie A.; Elgezouli, Hassan A.; Mohammed, Bakri S.; Daffalla, Mohamed Y.; Babiker, Ebtehag
Current methods of collection and processing of tree seed is difficult and expensive. Moreover, the germination of tree seeds and establishment of seedlings requires sufficient soil moisture over adequate periods of time. The objective of this research was to develop a tree seeder to: regulate spacing between tree seeds; harvest and conserve rain water; conserve tree seeds and optimize its seeding cost; test the developed seeder at different ecological sites; and conduct a socioeconomic evaluation for the developed seeder. Findings show the developed seeder is acceptable and technically viable while it reduces the costs of thinning.
Design, development and testing of Water Harvesting in Rows Planter (Wahip) for marginal rainfed areas
(ESRSA Publication, 2013-07) Yousif, Lotfie A.; Abdelhadi, A.W.; Babiker, Imad A. Ali; Babiker, Ebtehag
A water harvesting in-row planter (WaHIP) was developed for seeding sorghum in furrows in areas of low rainfall. Results showed that WaHIP constructed ridges, seeded sorghum in the furrow, and simultaneously covered about 2 hectares in one hour at the working speed of 8 km/hr. Its use resulted in the highest soil moisture, tallest plants and highest sorghum yield. Based on statistical and economic analyses, WaHIP is technically feasible, economically profitable and socially acceptable. Therefore, it is recommended as an indispensable machine for sorghum production in marginal rainfed areas such as the Sudan.
Climate variability and change : perceptions, experiences and realities
(2012) Rao, K P C; Oyoo, A
Farming in the semi-arid tropics, where climatic conditions are marginal and highly variable, is a risky enterprise. The main source of this risk is the variability in rainfall that occurs at many different timescales, ranging from seasons to years to decades and beyond. Farmers operating under these conditions make decisions based on their perceptions and experiences gained from several years of keen observation and practice in the field. However, perceptions are influenced by many factors, both real and subjective. For agriculture, factors like farm productivity, crop, market and local preferences, capacity to invest, willingness to take risks and soil quality play an important role. While the role and significance of some of these factors on productivity and profitability can be perceived more easily due to their relative predictability, extreme variability in climate and the random nature of that variability makes it difficult for farmers to accurately perceive trends in climate. In the absence of detailed measurements, perceptions can be biased and unreliable. Climate information can play an important role in helping farmers better understand this variability and its associated risks, and enhancing their decision-making for effective risk management.
Determination of seasonal rainfall variability, onset and cessation in semi-arid Tharaka district, Kenya
(Springer, 2012) Recha, C.W.; Makokha, G.L.; Traore, P.S.; Shisanya, C.; Lodoun, T.; Sako, A.
The study quantified rainfall variability for March– May (MAM) and October–December (OND) seasons in Tharaka district, Kenya. The parameters analysed were interannual variability of seasonal rainfall, onset and cessation using daily rainfall data in three agro-ecological zones’ stations. Percentage mean cumulative method was used to determine onset and cessation, and seasonal variability was estimated using rainfall variability indices. Although both seasons are highly variable, OND has been persistently below mean over time while MAM shows high within-season variability. Despite the near uniformity in the mean onset and cessation dates, the former is highly variable on an interannual scale. The two rainfall seasons are inherently dissimilar and therefore require specific cropping in agro-ecological zone LM4 and LM4-5. It is possible that farmers in IL5 are missing an opportunity by under-utilising MAM rainfall. The results should be incorporated in implications of climate variability and vulnerability assessment in semi-arid Tharaka district.
Participatory action research to enhance the adaptive capacity of smallholder farmers to better respond to climate change and variability : synthesis report
(2012)
This report draws from 26 projects that focus on the intersection between agriculture and climate change to better understand how climate stressors affect agricultural productivity, with the potential to exacerbate existing food insecurity and poverty. To facilitate adaptation to climate change, almost all the projects worked directly with farmers and their organizations. Results emphasize that Participatory Action Research (PAR) works best when it is implemented with full understanding of the context where it is delivered and with meticulous attention to methodology in that context. Change processes are slow, while yielding local solutions and community ownership of adaptation programs.
Enhancing smallhoders' capacity to cope with climate change : use of seasonal climate forecasts
(2012) Mugabe, Francis T.; Admassu, Habtamu; Sall, Amadou; Omolo, Nancy A.; Honkponou, Said
This document is one of a series of factsheets that aim to share practical experience of how Participatory Action Research (PAR) can be used to trigger technological, social and institutional innovation in Africa to enhance smallholders’ adaptive capacity in the face of climate change and increased climate variability. The uniqueness of this approach is the integration of the “what” (the technologies) with the “how” (PAR) and the “why” (increased capacity of smallholders to cope with climate change).
Enhancing smallholders' capacity to cope with climate change : participatory action research and integrated soil fertility management
(2012) Mapfumo, Paul; Adjei-Nsiah, Samuel; Mahoo, Henry; Majule, Amos
This document is one of a series of factsheets that aim to share practical experience of how Participatory Action Research (PAR) can be used to trigger technological, social and institutional innovation in Africa to enhance smallholders’ adaptive capacity in the face of climate change and increased climate variability. The uniqueness of this approach is the integration of the “what” (the technologies) with the “how” (PAR) and the “why” (increased capacity of smallholders to cope with climate change).
Application de la recherche-action participative à l'adaptation aux changements climatiques en Afrique : manuel de référence
(Centre pour la recherche forestière internationale (CIFOR), Bogor, ID, 2012) German, Laura A.; Tiani, Anne-Marie; Daoudi, Ali; Maravanyika, Tendayi Mutimukuru; Chuma, Edward
Application of participatory action research to climate change adaptation in Africa : a reference guide
(Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR), Bogor, ID, 2012) German, Laura A.; Tiani, Anne-Marie; Daoudi, Ali; Maravanyika, Tendayi Mutimukuru; Chuma, Edward
The Climate Change Adaptation in Africa (CCAA) program works to establish a self-sustained African body of expertise on adaptation defined by African communities, decision-makers, and institutions. This Reference Guide presents a “best bet” approach to the application of participatory action research (PAR) in addressing adaptation challenges. Diverse PAR tools and processes are portrayed in detail, including basics used throughout the PAR process (facilitation, process documentation), preparatory steps in building teams and engaging stakeholders, ways of understanding the problem or opportunity and conceptualizing change, planning, managing of change, and the role of empirical research as inputs to decision making.
Spatial fields' dispersion as a farmer strategy to reduce agro-climatic risk at the household level in pearl millet-based systems in the Sahel : a modeling perspective
(Elsevier, 2011) Akponikpe, Pierre Irenikatche; Minet, J.; Gérard, B.; Defourny, P.; Bielders, C.L.
The research tested the hypothesis that the dispersion of farmers’ fields around village territory helps mitigate agro-climatic risk by increasing yield stability from year to year. Using the Agricultural Production Systems sIMulator (APSIM) crop simulation model, simulated yields were combined with the land tenure map of the Banizoumbou village area (Niger) to assess millet yield at field and household levels. Results show that field dispersion is an effective strategy, and it is clearly advisable that land reforms in the area take into account the benefits of field dispersion to mitigate climatic risk.
Characteristics of snail farmers and constraints to increased production in West and Central Africa
(Academic Journals, 2010) Ngenwi, A.A.; Mafeni, J.M.; Etchu, K.A.; Oben, F.T.
Snail gathering/rearing is an important source of livelihood for rural dwellers in the humid forest and derived savanna zones of West and Central Africa. Recently, declining populations of Archachatina archachatina and Archachatina marginata species is being observed, with climatic conditions and changes in land use implicated as causal factors. However, these claims are still to be ascertained. A study was carried out to characterize snail farmers, identify constraints to increased snail production and suggest strategies required to conserve edible snail species and sustain livelihoods. Structured questionnaires and focus group discussions were used for data collection in selected locations in Cameroon and Ghana. Descriptive statistics (means and percentages) was used to summarize the data obtained. The results indicate that snail farmers are predominantly women with basic school level of education. Between 42 and 62% of rural income is derived from sale of snails. Causes of declining snail populations were attributed to habitat loss through deforestation, overexploitation, indiscriminate harvesting, climate change - indicated by extremely high temperatures and low rainfall, high dependence on agricultural chemicals (herbicides and pesticides) and lack of training on improved snail husbandry. A holistic approach to biodiversity conservation and capacity building of current and wouldbe snail farmers is suggested to increase snail supply in markets.
Climate forecasting to serve communities in West Africa
(Elsevier, 2010) Tall, Arame
The recent Red Cross experience acting on forecasts in west Africa provides examples of how climate information can be linked to decisions and serve development in low-income regions, and how climate and weather forecasts may become useful to communities at risk from climatic events, provided that the obstacles thwarting these communities’ access to and use of forecasts are clearly identified and overcome.
Local climate forcing and eco-climatic complexes in the wooded savannah of Western Nigeria
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2011) Fasona, Mayowa; Tadross, Mark; Abiodun, Babatunde; Omojola, Ademola
Local perturbations such as terrain, land cover, and land-water boundary often exert a strong influence on the local climate and create eco-climatic structures or complexes that can support the natural resource capita on which livelihoods depend. This research focuses on the eco-climatic complexes that produce the natural resource capita which supports livelihood systems across the wooded savannah of western Nigeria. Downscaled climate data can be integrated and analyzed with the drivers of the local climate system, enabling their spatial pattern of influence and impact on the local climate system to be deciphered and quantified so that it becomes useful.
Competing use of organic resources, village-level interactions between farm types and climate variability in a communal area of NE Zimbabwe
(Elsevier, 2011) Rufino, M.C.; Dury, J.; P. Tittonell; Wijk, M.T. van; Herrero, M.
Addition of crop residues or animal manure is needed to sustain agricultural production on inherently poor soils. This study assesses the effect of village-level interactions on carbon and nutrient flows, exploring their impact on long-term productivity of different farm types under climate variability. Increasing mineral fertiliser-use concurrently with keeping crop residues in fertile fields and allocating manure to poor fields, may boost crop and cattle productivity at village level. In communal areas of NE Zimbabwe, feed resources are collectively managed, with herds grazing on grasslands during the rainy season and on crop residues during the dry season.
Building adaptive capacity to cope with increasing vulnerability due to climate change : final technical report - Zimbabwe (30 September 2010)
(Midlands State University, Gweru, ZW, 2010) Mugabe, F.T.; Munodawafa, A.; Dimes, J.; Nanja, D.H.; Carberry, P.
Baseline data to describe cropping system and management under current climate variability and farmer perceptions about climate change across 4 districts of Zimbabwe and Zambia was collected and analyzed. Indigenous knowledge of climate and indicators to seasonal conditions were also documented and compared with scientific forecasts. Prediction of seasonal climate was consistent with that from the meteorological department. Seven workshops were held to educate farmers and extension agents on interpretation of the Seasonal Climate Forecast (SCF) and explore together its application in making cropping decisions. Management options in response to the SCF were then tested in participatory on-farm trials.
Lack of resilience in African smallholder farming : exploring measures to enhance the adaptive capacity of local communities to pressure climate change : final technical report - Zimbabwe (October 2010)
(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, University of Zimbabwe, Harare ZW, 2010) Mapfumo, Paul; Chikowo, Regis; Mtambanengwe, Florence
The project worked with smallholder farming communities to identify opportunities for enhancing the capacity of different households to meet their staple food requirements and livelihood options in the wake of climate change and variability. The project supported smallholder farmers in identifying and using appropriate integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) innovations and other improved farming technologies to enhance the capacity of participating institutions and individual researchers to conduct and manage research and development at various levels. Integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) and livelihoods were used as entry points. Detailed accounts of project activities in Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Mali, and Ghana are provided.
S'adapter localement aux changements climatiques mondiaux : des expériences issues de l'Afrique rurale; rapport du dialogue
(CRDI, Ottawa, ON, CA, 2007) O'Neill, Mary; Hardy, Diane

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