Photo: Clark Wilson/ Unsplash
This post summarizes an article authored by Lazare Nzeyimana, Åsa Danielsson, Veronica Brodén-Gyberg (SweDev Executive Committee member), and Lotta Andersson published in the International Journal of Climate Change Strategies and Management.
The study explores how Rwandan farmers perceive landscape vulnerability to drought and how their insights could enhance resilience strategies. Conducted in Bugesera, a drought-prone district in southeastern Rwanda, the research focuses on past landscape changes, current livelihood resources, and future strategies to strengthen drought resilience. Through interviews, focus groups, and participatory observation, the researchers gathered local perspectives on how drought has historically affected the landscape and communities. Drought is seen as the most severe climate threat, with vulnerabilities tied to forced migration, population pressure, deforestation, and land challenges.
Farmers identified several resilience-enhancing factors, including diversified income sources, knowledge of irrigation techniques, and access to credit and safety nets. They emphasized the value of collaborative practices like peer learning and on-field training, and expressed a desire for stronger institutional support to facilitate market access and cross-sector collaboration. A traditional Rwandan practice called Ubudehe, which involves community cooperation and mutual support, was noted as vital for strengthening community resilience.
The study underlines the importance of integrating local knowledge into broader climate adaptation policies, especially as climate change intensifies drought risks across sub-Saharan Africa. Current adaptation strategies, which often react to droughts in the short term, are insufficient for addressing the anticipated severity of future climate impacts. The study suggests that policymakers and institutions could adopt proactive, long-term strategies by supporting integrated national climate policies and cross-sector collaborations involving water, agriculture, and infrastructure.
This research contributes valuable insights into smallholder farming and climate resilience, emphasizing that farmers’ experiences and traditional practices like Ubudehe are essential for building a more sustainable and locally adapted response to climate change. The authors call for further research and policy efforts to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and farmers’ perspectives, creating a foundation for transformational adaptation that honors local practices and priorities.
