One core challenge in the drylands, of which the consequences on food security are becoming increasingly visible, is climate change. Even though DCG for a long time have been focusing on fluctuations in rainfall, drought and the consequences of this on food security, we need more information on the impact of long term climate changes and the already existing coping strategies in the drylands. Based on this information, our members will have a basis for planning their future work in areas affected by the consequences of climate change and for advocating for measures to be taken by policy makers in order to strengthen the adaptive capacities of the inhabitants of the drylands.
Through DCG Ethiopia, NCA Ethiopia in collaboration with several other DCG members carried out a study on farmers’ perceptions and adaptation strategies to climate change in three districts. The main objective of this research was to contribute to the efforts made by various actors (Government, Civil Society Organizations and farmers) in response to climate change. Primary data from three selected districts were collected and 20 years meteorological data of rainfall and temperature from 6 stations were collected and analyzed.
The outputs of the study were among others:
- One workshop to share the preliminary findings of the study was conducted for DCG members and relevant government offices.
- One workshop was held in one of the study districts in order to raise awareness on the different consequences of climate changes and the related coping strategies.
- NCA conducted a conference on Climate Change Adaptation Programming in the drylands, where a total of 55 participants attended from various organizations (DCG members, CSOs working in climate, relevant government offices, the Norwegian Embassy, research organizations, Universities). The project report was presented and the findings were used in the discussion on how to incorporate adaptation strategies into projects plan.
NCA conducted this research with the objective of internal capacity development and also use of research findings for future programming of development projects in the study areas. The report is currently (May 2010) being used in the development of the new 5 years strategy for NCA Ethiopia, where adaptation activities to improve the livelihood of the drylands farmers will be given high priority.
The report will also feed into the National Action Plan for Adaptation (NAPA), which is currently being revised by the Environmental Protection Authorities (EPA). EPA is part of the board of DCG Ethiopia and has therefore been participating in the workshop where the report was presented.