Climate change remains one of the biggest threats farmers face. This means that adapting to the evolution of the environment is the only solution farmers have to continue working the land.
Soutpan Solar Power in Limpopo recently held an empowerment session for farmers in the Blouberg municipal area with a key focus on climate change resilience.
Climate change is real
Harrisinah Theka, economic development specialist for Soutpan Solar Power, said it was important that different economic sectors work together, especially when it comes to food security and ensuring that there is sustainability in businesses.
“It is well known that the main effects of climate change on agriculture include decreased soil fertility, the need for changes in farming infrastructure, unpredictable weather patterns and lower ground and surface water availability,” she said.
Theka added that working closely with a cohort of youth farmers, many of whom were already feeling the impact of shifting weather patterns which often result in failed crops, the workshop had provided tools for the cohort to devise mitigation measures.
“It is my belief that once the crop and animal farmers become aware of the climate change-related issues, it will be easier for them to come up with mitigation measures when they are faced with challenges.
“Better yet, they are now equipped to avoid losses and have the knowledge and skills to move forward,” she added.
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Just what we need
Peter Meyer, director of Masa Poultry Farmers, previously supported by Soutpan Solar Power’s overarching youth skills development programme, was one of the eighteen participants, all of whom are local farmers from the Blouberg area.
“This workshop was very productive. One of the highlights for me was the information on biofuel and how it can help me reduce my diesel costs as I need to use diesel to both heat and cool my chickens.
“It will also assist with our lighting requirements. The information shared has given me a lot to think about, and prepare for the future,” he said.
A greater understanding
Local potato farmer Cynthia Mokgobu said the information shared by the South African Weather Service was fascinating to her as a potato farmer. “I now know what to expect in terms of weather for the rest of this year for my crops,” she said.
Theka said topics covered included climate change risks and vulnerability in the Blouberg municipal area, climate-smart agricultural practices, and support programmes available by the department of agriculture amongst others.
“Working closely with the local businesses, I realised that they could benefit from understanding more about issues related to climate change and having added this to our development focus last year.
“We realised that we needed to gather partners from the private and public sectors who could assist our young community’s farmers,” she said.
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