Background / Context

Smallholder farmers in Ethiopia face recurring droughts and declining soil fertility. Dependence on rain-fed farming and lack of knowledge about climate adaptation put families at risk of hunger year after year. Many farmers lacked access to improved seeds and modern techniques. Building resilience through climate-smart agriculture was seen as critical for long-term food security.

Objectives

To equip farmers with sustainable farming techniques that reduce climate vulnerability, improve productivity, and protect natural resources.

Approach

One Africa Foundation, through Komesha Foundation, established farmer field schools in rural districts. Training focused on drought-resistant crops, soil conservation, composting, and water harvesting techniques. Demonstration farms showcased best practices, encouraging peer learning. Farmers were linked to local cooperatives to share knowledge and access agricultural inputs at lower costs.

Impact / Outcomes

More than 600 farmers adopted climate-smart methods. Average yields increased by 35% despite erratic rains. Families diversified diets, and income from surplus produce grew steadily. Farmers reported greater confidence to face droughts and expressed willingness to pass on knowledge to neighbouring villages.

Beneficiary Voice

“Before this training, a single dry spell meant losing everything. Now I use new seeds and conserve water, and my family has enough food,” said Alem, a farmer in Ethiopia.