Climate change adaptation strategies and food security in Karamoja Sub Region, North Eastern Uganda

Abstract

Climate change extremes like drought, flood, higher temperatures negatively affect agricultural practices which has seen low yields among the smallholders’ famers and vulnerable communities leading to increased food insecurity in Karamoja region and many parts of Uganda. Uganda joins the rest of the world to mitigate and adapt to climatic changes and also to achieve Sustainable Development Goal on climate action and zero hunger. This study examines the influence of climate change adaptation strategies on food security in Karamoja sub-region. I assessed the adaptation strategies such as crop diversification, sustainable irrigation, change in planting dates, soil fertilisation, water harvest and drought resistant crop that have been undertaken to promote resilience and high food production. I reviewed published materials on the global and national situation of climate change adaptation and food security to inform my discussions. Empirical evidence has indicated that these strategies have improved food production and ensured resilience of farmers on the climate threats however there are still challenges and gaps in knowledge and capacity of some farmers to adapt. To ensure the population is able to attain food security at all times, the country to needs to promote sustainable and affordable adaptation strategies. The government of Uganda has undertaken key steps to put in place policies and institutions to supports action taken to mitigate climate change. However, the implementation of these policies should be monitored and evaluated to identify areas of policies reviews.