Blog Training on Climate-Smart Agriculture and Agroecological Practices
Training experts in climate-smart agricultural (CSA) practices and agroecology play a key role in disseminating knowledge and implementing sustainable farming techniques at a large scale.
By: Zenebe Adimassu, Degefie Tibebe
By equipping experts with in-depth understanding and skills in these areas, they can provide guidance and support to farmers, policymakers, and other stakeholders in adopting sustainable practices. For example, trained experts can conduct workshops, develop tailored solutions, and provide technical assistance to farmers looking to implement climate-smart practices such as water-efficient irrigation or agroforestry systems. Their expertise can also contribute to research and policy development for creating a more sustainable agricultural sector. In essence, training experts ensure the widespread adoption of environmentally friendly practices, leading to more resilient and productive agricultural systems. The Alliance - in collaboration with InterAIDE Ethiopia - organized training on CSA and agroecology practices from May 15-17, 2024 in Hawassa, Ethiopia. It brought together 50 experts and office heads working on CSA and agroecology from the Bureau of Agriculture of three regional states of the country including Sidama, Central Ethiopia, and Southern Ethiopia.
Participants at the training workshop in Hawassa, Ethiopia
The training was facilitated by Dr. Zenebe Adimassu
The training was facilitated by Dr. Zenebe Adimassu - an independent consultant based in Addis Ababa - assisted by Mr. Getamesay Demeke - Program Manager at InterAIDE Ethiopia. The purpose of the training was to build the capacity of partners on CSA and agroecology practices, and share experience across the three regions that have implemented the associated practices.
The three-day training featured the following modules:
- Concepts in weather and climate
- Concepts and principles in climate-smart agriculture
- Concepts and principles in agroecological practices
- Prioritization of CSA and agroecological practices using CCAF’s Framework
- Integrating fodder production to soil and water conservation
- Institutionalization of technical and social solutions for CSA and agroecological practices
- Participatory monitoring and evaluation of CSA and agroecology practices
Besides module training, participants shared their experiences from field work related to CSA and agroecology.
Take-home Messages
- Training experts on CSA and agroecological practices is crucial for ensuring sustainable farming practices that mitigate the impact of climate change. These experts possess the knowledge and skills to help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions while improving agricultural productivity.
- By training experts in CSA and agroecological practices, we empower them to develop innovative solutions that promote resilience and sustainability in the face of climate challenges.
- Through training, experts learn how to implement techniques such as water harvesting, soil conservation and crop diversification, enhancing agricultural resilience to climate variability in Ethiopia.
- Experience-sharing on agroecology practices promotes biodiversity, soil health, and natural pest control methods, contributing to sustainable ecosystem preservation across Ethiopia's diverse agricultural landscapes.
- Equipping experts with CSA and agroecology knowledge enhances food security by increasing crop yields, reducing post-harvest losses, and ensuring sustainable agricultural production for communities in Ethiopia.
- Training and experience-sharing foster collaboration among experts and policymakers in the regions, leading to the adoption of innovative CSA and agroecological practices that benefit both people and the environment.
Acknowledgment
This annual conference was hosted by the Alliance of Bioversity and CIAT and supported by Accelerating the Impact of CGIAR Climate Research for Africa (AICCRA) Ethiopia and Private Sector Incentives and Investment for Climate Change, Resilience and Environmental Sustainability Project (PSII).
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