EAC Recognizes climate-smart agriculture and Adopting Green Renewable Energy as the Path Forward to Address Climate Change and Food Security
The recent East African Community (EAC) Heads of State Summit has ushered in a new era of commitment towards climate-smart policies and investments to fortify the agricultural sector across the continent. The consensus among the leaders is clear: by strengthening climate-smart agriculture and renewable energy, Africa can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change and ensure enhanced food access for its citizens.
One of the key focal points of the summit is the urgent need to augment rainwater harvesting for irrigation purposes, a vital component of sustainable agriculture. The leaders recognize that efficient water management is integral to addressing the challenges posed by climate change. As climate patterns shift, the availability of water for agricultural use becomes a critical factor, and investing in rainwater harvesting emerges as a practical solution.
The heads of state acknowledge the imperative to minimize post-harvest losses through the adoption of modern technologies. The integration of cutting-edge solutions for the storage and distribution of agricultural products is deemed crucial. Embracing these technologies not only ensures food security but also contributes to the economic sustainability of the agricultural sector.
A united stance was taken on the importance of expanding forest cover and safeguarding existing forests. The leaders see this as a strategic move to position the region favorably in carbon trading and climate financing on the global stage. By prioritizing environmental sustainability, the EAC aims to set an example for the rest of the world, emphasizing the interconnectedness of climate, forests, and economic prosperity.
READ: Understanding Carbon Credits and How They Can Be Harnessed In The African Agriculture
Addressing the summit, individual leaders outlined their countries’ specific initiatives, all agreeing to abide by the following stances:
- The Climate-Smart Approach
To effectively tackle climate change, the EAC Heads of State emphasized climate-smart agriculture—a holistic strategy that integrates sustainable practices to boost productivity, resilience, and mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. This involves adopting modern technologies for better storage, reducing post-harvest losses, and improving the distribution of agricultural products. Furthermore, the leaders acknowledged the crucial role of rainwater harvesting in irrigation agriculture, addressing water scarcity concerns.
- Creative Integration in African Agriculture
The nations showcased innovative strategies, with Tanzania’s Build Better Tomorrow initiative focusing on engaging youth and women in agriculture through climate-smart technologies, promoting sustainability, and reducing poverty. Kenya’s commitment to conserving water towers and planting 15 billion trees aims to not only safeguard the environment but also tap into carbon trading for economic gains. On the other hand, Rwanda prioritizes collaboration between the government and the private sector, investing in infrastructure and cold storage to manage post-harvest losses.
- Common Purpose for COP 28
The unified stance of approaching COP 28 as a bloc emphasizes Africa’s commitment to addressing climate change on the global stage. This solidarity ensures that the region’s development goals align with climate change mitigation efforts, fostering complementarity among partner states.
