Using Technology to Help Farmers Adapt to Climate Change
Hellen Mary Akiror's livelihood relies on the right amount of rainfall coming at the right time.
A farmer in Uganda's Soroti district, Hellen lives with her husband and seven children. Growing millet, groundnuts, sorghum, cassava and potatoes on her four acres, she is dependent on rain-fed agriculture for her survival. Yet, she said, "Rainfall comes at the wrong time, in huge quantities and stops when we need it most."
Hellen's story is all too common. In 2014, I met Mukasa, an elderly Ugandan farmer grappling with the fact that his village was facing unpredictable rainfall and temperatures higher than any in living memory. At the same focus group discussion where I met Mukasa, I also met Father Philippe, the pastor of Mukasa's parish. Father Philippe said, "We have sinned and the lack of rain and excess heat are the wrath of God." Another parish member said, "We destroyed the trees and we are facing the consequences."
Sam Churchill