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Story Publication logo April 28, 2016

In Photos: ‘Climate-Smart’ Agriculture Debate

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William & Mary 2015-2016 Sharp Reporting Projects

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Eastern Ugandan farmers and community members circle around to watch a video provided by Uganda National Meteorological Authority (UNMA). Farmer Anthony Wolimbwa hopes to “bridge the digital divide” in this way. The UNMA releases weather and climate information. Wolimbwa represents the Climate Action Network on the UNMA’s board and writes advisories four times a year for his region that includes specific information to prepare farmers in the region for that season’s weather patterns. For example this past year, he advised farmers to plant crops that would survive the long floods of El Nino, and prepare for the increase of mosquitos. Another method for communicating to the community is by radio. Wolimbwa shares the weather information and advisories via radio, which is the way most villagers get information. Image courtesy of Anthony Wolimbwa. Uganda, 2016.
Anthony Wolimbwa’s farm in Eastern Uganda includes, in the foreground, bean plants that require a shorter amount of growing time than corn, are not as susceptible to corns’ diseases, and are therefore more profitable. In the background, the Arabica coffee plants (white puff balls) have only survived under the shade of large trees. Those plants are very temperature sensitive and therefore in danger with a warming climate. Wolimbwa is now planting a new type of tree, the banana tree (shown far left) which provides shade and also attracts different bugs then the insects of the coffee plant Competition of pests will reduce the overall number of pests and diseases on the farm. Image courtesy of Anthony Wolimbwa. Uganda, 2016.
In December 2015, youth at the climate negotiations in Paris called COP21 protest for climate action. Image courtesy of Christian O'Rourke/ SustainUS. France, 2015.

Millions of farmers world-wide must find solutions to feed themselves and make a living. Some have combined new technology with traditional practices to adapt to a changing climate. Others, however, are wary of these new "climate-smart" agricultural practices.

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