Agriculture expert calls on farming communities to intensify preparedness efforts and strengthen climate resilience measures

By Ennie Kishiki Mutepuka.

Climate-Smart Agriculture and Climate Resilience Expert and Advocate for Sustainable Agricultural Transformation and Food Security, Oliver Bulaya, has called on governments, development partners, agricultural institutions, extension services, the private sector, and farming communities to intensify preparedness efforts and strengthen climate resilience measures.

‎According to Dr. Bulaya, the growing frequency and intensity of climate-related shocks underscore the need for proactive planning and long-term investment in resilient agricultural systems. 

He noted that climate change has altered traditional production patterns, making reliance on predictable rainfall increasingly risky. 

He added that agriculture remains the backbone of most SADC economies, supporting livelihoods, creating employment, driving economic growth, and ensuring food and nutrition security. 

Dr. Bulaya warned that a severe El Niño event could lead to reduced crop yields, food insecurity, rising food prices, declining household incomes, and increased vulnerability among rural communities, potentially reversing development gains achieved in recent years.

‎And Dr. Bulaya emphasized that the anticipated El Niño should be viewed not only as a climate threat but also as an opportunity to accelerate the transition toward climate-resilient and sustainable food systems. 

He stressed that resilience and climate action must be integral components of agricultural development planning, noting that Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) remains one of the most effective approaches to strengthening food systems. 

Dr. Bulaya said Climate-Smart Agriculture enhances productivity, improves resilience to climate shocks, and contributes to greenhouse gas emission reduction. 

‎He said Farmers should be encouraged to adopt conservation agriculture practices such as minimum tillage, crop rotation, residue retention, integrated soil fertility management, cover cropping, and agroforestry. 

‎These practices improve soil health, conserve moisture, increase water infiltration, and strengthen the capacity of farming systems to withstand drought conditions.

‎‎The use of drought-tolerant, early-maturing, and climate-resilient seed varieties should also be prioritized. 

He has since urged Governments, research institutions, and seed companies to work collaboratively to ensure timely access to suitable planting materials capable of performing under challenging climatic conditions.

‎He said the projected El Niño further highlights the urgency of expanding irrigation development. Continued dependence on rain-fed agriculture leaves farming communities highly exposed to climate variability.

‎Investments in smallholder irrigation schemes, solar-powered irrigation technologies, water harvesting systems, farm ponds, dams, and groundwater development can significantly reduce production risks while supporting year-round agricultural activities.

‎Crop and livelihood diversification must become a central pillar of resilience-building efforts. Farmers should diversify beyond maize by incorporating drought-tolerant crops such as sorghum, millet, cassava, cowpeas, pigeon peas, and groundnuts. 

‎Integrating livestock, aquaculture, beekeeping, and horticulture can further strengthen household incomes and reduce vulnerability to climate shocks.

‎Dr. Bulaya also stressed the importance of expanding access to climate information services and early warning systems. Reliable seasonal forecasts, weather advisories, and climate outlooks enable farmers to make informed decisions on planting dates, crop selection, water management, and risk reduction strategies. 

Strengthened extension services will be essential for translating climate information into practical actions at the farm level.

While adaptation remains essential, Dr. Bulaya noted that it must be complemented by robust climate change mitigation efforts. He called for increased investment in initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration.

‎He said Trees play a vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide, improving soil fertility, reducing erosion, regulating local temperatures, protecting watersheds, and conserving biodiversity. 

Governments, communities, schools, institutions, and the private sector should work together to accelerate afforestation and reforestation efforts.

‎‎Protecting existing forests is equally important. Deforestation remains a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions in many African countries. Stronger enforcement against illegal logging, combined with sustainable forest management practices and alternative energy solutions, will be critical in reducing pressure on natural forests.