Eleven community groups in Siaya County have received support for climate-smart agriculture, including solar-powered water pumps and incubators. This initiative, led by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission, aims to combat the effects of climate change and improve food security, particularly for vulnerable groups and those with disabilities. Funded by the Adaptation Fund and UNEP, the project encompasses five East African countries, with a total budget of USD 5 million.
In an initiative aimed at addressing climate change and enhancing resilience among vulnerable populations, particularly those with disabilities, eleven community groups from Siaya County have received critical assistance for climate-smart agriculture. Spearheaded by the Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC), this effort focuses on providing sustainable agricultural practices to alleviate the impact of climate change.
As part of the project, the community groups benefitted from solar-powered water pumps and incubators, valued at 3.5 million Kenyan Shillings. Eng. Hildah Luoga, Project Development Officer at LVBC, remarked that these tools are expected to significantly transform farming practices by enhancing irrigation capabilities and promoting poultry farming—vital steps toward sustainable agricultural development in the region.
Eng. Luoga highlighted the challenges posed by climate change, including erratic rainfall and prolonged droughts that adversely affect agricultural productivity in the Lake Victoria Basin. She noted that the introduction of solar-powered water pumps will facilitate efficient irrigation, ensuring food security throughout drought periods. Additionally, the provision of incubators will assist poultry farmers by improving hatch rates, which will provide a reliable source of income and nutrition.
This program is part of the “Adapting to Climate Change in Lake Victoria Basin” initiative, which is supported by the Adaptation Fund through the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). With a total funding allocation of USD 5 million, the project is being executed across five East African countries: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Burundi. According to Eng. Luoga, “The project is a crucial initiative aimed at enhancing the adaptive capacity of communities within the region.”
Local beneficiaries expressed their appreciation for the initiative, recognizing its potential to significantly enhance their livelihoods. “With this solar-powered pump, we will no longer depend solely on rainfall. We can now practice irrigation and grow crops all year round,” stated Jane Achieng, a farmer from one of the beneficiary groups.
The Lake Victoria Basin Commission, an institution of the East African Community (EAC), plays a pivotal role in coordinating sustainable development and managing resources within the Lake Victoria Basin. This integration of climate-smart solutions, such as renewable energy and sustainable agricultural practices, aligns with Kenya’s National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) and the broader climate resilience agenda in East Africa.
The initiative to provide climate-smart agricultural tools to vulnerable groups in the Lake Victoria Basin represents a significant step toward adapting to the challenges posed by climate change. By empowering local communities with efficient irrigation methods and supportive agricultural practices, this project not only bolsters food security but also enhances the economic wellbeing of the beneficiaries. The integration of sustainable solutions aligns with national and regional climate action plans, underscoring the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling environmental challenges.
Original Source: www.kenyanews.go.ke
