Erosion and soil fertility protection and recuperation of degraded surface

projekt beendet

ContextBurkina Faso is severely threatened by climate change. Inappropriate land use methods and increasing pressure on natural resources due to population growth have led to the degradation of agricultural land. This degradation is further exacerbated by the impacts of climate change, for example unfavourable precipitation patterns, droughts and heavy rains.The livelihoods of the majority of Burkina Faso’s rural population, which primarily depends on farming, are seriously at risk from the reduction in arable land, the loss of soil fertility, and the falling crop yields. As a result, less and less food is available. Furthermore, there has been a continuous loss of biological diversity. Utilisation pressures are intensifying the competition for farmland and are increasingly fuelling conflicts over water and land resources. The local population lacks the capacity needed to adapt their methods and land use systems to the impacts of climate change. The Governments of Burkina Faso and Germany have initiated this project in response to these problems.ObjectiveThe local population in south-western Burkina Faso has an increased capacity to adapt to the impacts of climate change.ApproachThe project is primarily working at local and regional level. Within villages in south-western Burkina Faso, the target group comprises women, men and children who engage in agriculture and livestock breeding. Other cooperation partners include the municipalities, technical services, organisations and research facilities that offer climate change adaptation services.On behalf of the project, AFC Consultants International advises selected rural communities on how to reclaim infertile and eroded areas, and protect them against further erosion. This enables the people to respond more effectively to the impacts of climate change. Municipalities and service providers receive support in integrating adaptation measures into local development plans and service portfolios.ResultsThe following results have been achieved so far:• reclaiming of 5,314 hectares of watersheds;• greening of 84,794 metres of erosion control structures;.• planting of 22,800 agroforestry plants in reclaimed areas;• awareness-raising and training for 5,833 project beneficiaries, including 2,256 women, on the challenges posed by climate change;• training of 289 individuals on incorporating the impacts of climate change into local planning activities.The project aims to contribute to the protection of at least 14,680 hectares of watersheds. Support is being provided to 28 communities on integrating adaptation measures into agricultural practices and building their capacity for the long-term management of erosion control systems, recuperation of reclaimed areas, and promotion of value chains.

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