Drought, flooding, and irregular rainfall threaten the livelihoods of many people in Uganda. Smallholder farmers, who depend on the yield from their fields, are particularly affected. In order to integrate food security, environmental protection and disaster preparedness, AWO International, in partnership with AFARD, launched the "Climate Action Model Village" project in 2022.
In ten villages in the dry border region near the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan, 15 so-called "Climate Smart Champion Groups" were established: solidarity-based farming groups that save together, share knowledge, and further educate themselves on climate-resilient farming and gender equality.
Climate change is affecting everyone in the region. Rainy seasons have shifted and droughts have become longer. That's why we're preparing farmers to thrive under the harsher conditions of climate change. At the same time, we want to protect the environment.
Barbra Karungi, Project Manager at AWO International in Uganda
The residents of the model villages are establishing kitchen gardens, using improved seeds, and applying climate-resilient methods. In addition, all groups have received ox-drawn ploughs and transport carts to help them work their fields more efficiently.
One example of climate-resilient farming is the switch to dry rice, which requires significantly less water than traditional flooded rice and produces less methane. This helps to reduce environmental impact while securing food supplies and income for families.
Thanks to the participatory approach, farmers are actively involved in the design of the climate-active model villages and define specific goals together.
Cooperation between AFARD and AWO International is strengthened through regular visits to the projects.
All farming groups received 2 ox-drawn plows as well as carts for transporting the harvest.
Projectinfo
| Project | Climate Action Model Village (CAM) Projekt |
|---|---|
| Place/Region | Uganda, West Nil Region, Distrikte Nebbi and Pakwach |
| Partner | Agency for Accelerated Urban Development (AFARD) |
| Target group | Vulnerable smallholder households, a total of 3190 beneficiaries |
| Activities |
|
| Duration | October 2022 – March 2026 |
| Budget | 931,400€ |
| Sponsor | BMZ Bengo, Aktion Deutschland Hilft (WDR Weihnachtskampagne) |
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