The negative impacts of climate change on agriculture, particularly in vulnerable regions, necessitate innovative solutions. The Building Climate Resilience Through Agroforestry project addressed this challenge in Kasese and Bunyangabu districts, Uganda by promoting sustainable agroforestry practices among smallholder farmers.

The project focused on empowering smallholder farmers by establishing long-term agroforestry systems. 

Sustainable Agri-Food Initiative (SAFI) worked with a nursery operator to raise tree seedlings suitable for the local climate and agricultural needs. SAFI identified, trained and supported 47 farmers in the two districts of the Rwenzori region. Through a comprehensive approach, 47 farmers received training on best practices in agroforestry. Seedling distribution followed, with a total of 3,047 fruit and timber tree seedlings reaching participating farmers. SAFI followed up to assess the survival rates of planted trees, ensuring project effectiveness.

The project directly targeted the negative impacts of climate change on agriculture. Agroforestry offers a multifaceted solution. By integrating trees into existing farming systems, the project aimed to mitigate soil erosion, a prevalent issue in the region. Additionally, established trees enhance soil fertility through organic matter decomposition and nitrogen fixation. 

This, in turn, strengthens resilience against unpredictable weather patterns, a hallmark of climate change, by improving soil moisture retention and microclimate regulation. Trees act as natural buffers, reducing wind speeds and minimizing the impact of heavy rains on soil erosion. Furthermore, their presence promotes evapotranspiration, a process that cools the surrounding air and helps to mitigate the effects of rising temperatures.

While unforeseen funding limitations led to the project’s premature conclusion, the groundwork laid holds significant promise for the future. The project’s legacy lies in empowering farmers with the knowledge and resources to build a more sustainable and climate-resilient future.

By promoting the continued adoption of agroforestry practices, the initiative can contribute significantly to the region’s long-term agricultural development and food security.