Improving Smallholder Resilience to Climate Change in East Africa

Research Overview

This interdisciplinary research project aims to develop and test innovative, community-based approaches to help smallholder farmers in East Africa adapt to the impacts of climate change. By integrating scientific data with local knowledge, the project seeks to identify sustainable agricultural practices and natural resource management strategies that can enhance the resilience of rural communities.

Research Objectives

  1. Assess the vulnerabilities of smallholder farming systems to climate change impacts in selected regions of East Africa.
  2. Co-create climate change adaptation plans with local communities through participatory processes.
  3. Pilot and evaluate the effectiveness of agroecological farming methods and community-based natural resource governance models.
  4. Develop policy recommendations to support the scaling up of successful climate change adaptation strategies.

Research Methodology

The project uses a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques. This includes household surveys, focus group discussions, participatory mapping exercises, agronomic trials, and analysis of climate and environmental data. The research team works closely with local farmers, community leaders, and government extension services throughout the research process.

Key Findings

The findings from this research are expected to inform the design of more targeted and effective climate change adaptation programs for smallholder farmers in East Africa. The project’s community-based approach aims to empower local stakeholders and strengthen their capacity to manage natural resources and agricultural systems in a sustainable manner. The policy recommendations generated will also provide guidance to national and regional policymakers on supporting smallholder climate resilience.

Research Impact

The findings from this research are expected to inform the design of more targeted and effective climate change adaptation programs for smallholder farmers in East Africa. The project’s community-based approach aims to empower local stakeholders and strengthen their capacity to manage natural resources and agricultural systems in a sustainable manner. The policy recommendations generated will also provide guidance to national and regional policymakers on supporting smallholder climate resilience.

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