Climate change forces South Sudan farmers to switch staple foods
In Warrap, a state in South Sudan located in the Bahr el Ghazal region, farmers have been forced to move from the production of sorghum which is a staple in the country to producing rice.
Recent weather patterns in the area, causing flashfloods and dry spells have led to the abandonment of staple crops to adapt to the impact of climate change, local news outlet Eye Radio has reported.
Citing the UN World Food Programme, the report notes that factors including localized conflict-driven displacement have also contributed to the food security situation the state is experiencing.
Warrap which has an estimated population of 1,222,397 people within six counties has experienced harsh climatic conditions since 2019, leading to the loss of livelihood with farms being submerged under flood waters and livestock being killed.
Eye Radio indicates that the World Food Programme Field Office in Kuajok has supported 60% of the population, about 233 beneficiaries including Sudan returnees through the provision of relief items, food and cash.
Through their intervention, farmers have also been introduced to alternative farming methods that are resistant to the current weather conditions in the area.
The agricultural move has not only helped in sustaining families who depend on farming for their livelihoods but also helped improve productivity.
The shift to rice production began in 2021 with 18 participating farmers but by 2022, the number of farmers increased to 700 and in 25 more locations in Warrap state.
Aside from rice, farmers are also growing crops like sweet potatoes and cassava which can still flourish in flooded areas.
