Background
Mozambique is one of the most vulnerable countries in Africa with regard to the effects of climate change. Manica province is regarded as the country’s granary. Within Manica, Sussundenga district stands out for its agricultural potential, especially in the cultivation of corn and forest resources. Nevertheless, due to the irregularity of rainfall the level of malnutrition is 41, 9% and the agricultural production is 11 % lower as in the south and center of Mozambique. During the last years, there is a significant reduction in the monthly rainfall in Sussundenga district resulting in food insecurity in the communities.
The following actions were identified to mitigate and adapt to climate change: Forest conservation, tree planting, the sustainable use of native wood, to prevent and combat wildfires and even more, the practice of conservation agriculture, the use of species and varieties tolerant to the climate of the future. The actions are expected also to improve the water supply and the management of water resources.
Description
The literature was reviewed on climate change causes and impacts globally, in the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), in Mozambique, in Manica province and in Sussundenga district particularly. This knowledge was spread during meetings to community members and governmental officials by using simple speaking language as well as simple and easy to understand Power Point presentations.
In a second step community members and governmental officials were informed how planting and using the tree Moringa oleifera Lam can contribute to climate change adaptation in the communities.
The presentation was made to the community in 9 neighbourhoods in Sussundenga village, 100 of these 68 (53 men and 15 women) were invited to attend. Also participating were members of the district government, 10 agrarian researchers, including the regional delegate. Other channels used to promote Moringa oleifera Lam were produced pamphlets and leaf and seed processing practice posters. Community radios were as well requested to disseminate information.
Women usually have not actively participated in meetings and decision-making due to cultural issues. Despite efforts to have a balanced representation of gender during the meetings, women were underrepresented.
Nevertheless, the women who attended contributed a lot, emphasizing on what to do to minimize climate change impacts and allow our children to have a better life. They were given time and space to exchange ideas freely during group work and plenary presentations and their contributions were included in the synthesis.
The following results were concluded:
- Continued disseminated of Moringa research results to the communities is needed
- Communities need continued assistance to update their agricultural practices
- Forest resources need to be monitored and community-based conservation should be promoted
- Tree planting needs to be done to improve the water supply
Impact
IIAM are occasionally contacted by community members asking for seed of Moringa oleifera Lam. This shows that we were able to successfully disseminate information about the importance of multi-use species for climate change adaptation in the agricultural sector.
Lessons learned
Pay attention to the local government calendar, and financial needs for project activities and execution. It is important that women participate in the local development of their community.