When Rains Betray the Farmer: Planters share experiences at UAES, CJID climate change forum

Celin, a cassava farmer, recounted how heavy rains devastated her crops, causing significant financial loss. The excessive rainfall submerged her farmland, destroying stem after stem of her plants. This left her without the expected harvest, a situation that threatened her family’s wellbeing.

Meanwhile, Chioma, a cucumber farmer, described the destructive effects of the same excessive rainfall. She watched as her crops drowned in waterlogged soil, leaving many to perish or fall victim to disease. Her harvest was a shadow of what she had anticipated.

Not every farmer faced the same issue. Paul, a banana and plantain farmer, had to endure a prolonged dry spell during the dry season. With little rain, his plants wilted from lack of moisture, reducing his yield dramatically. His income, therefore, dropped, making it harder to meet both his business and personal responsibilities.

The farmers’ experiences revealed a common narrative: the growing unpredictability of weather patterns. This unpredictability poses a significant threat to their livelihoods. Yet, the meeting wasn’t all about lamenting over losses. It was also a platform for brainstorming solutions. Farmers, researchers, and development practitioners exchanged ideas on climate-smart farming practices, improved weather forecasts, better drainage, crop diversification, and more effective extension services.

This engagement, organized by the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), Abuja, in collaboration with the University of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (UAES), proved to be a valuable learning experience for the farmers. After the session, many participants like Osundu Anudokum expressed renewed optimism. He said the knowledge gained would help him manage irregular rainfall, improve productivity, increase his income, and enhance his family’s standard of living.

Mrs. Ihenatu Priscly echoed similar sentiments, appreciating the effort to bring this valuable training directly to their communities. She was encouraged by the practical strategies shared, expressing hope that these would lead to better harvests and improved food security.

Dr. Chizoma Osuagwu, the Acting Dean of UAES’ Faculty of Agriculture, emphasized the need for continuous access to knowledge and innovation to build resilience among farmers. She stressed that climate change is redefining agricultural production in Nigeria, urging farmers to embrace climate-smart agricultural practices.

In conclusion, while the weather continues to be as unpredictable as ever, the farmers’ resilience and the collective wisdom they gathered can be a beacon of hope in the face of climate change.