Climate change adaptation strategies in the semi-arid region of Uganda

This project documented the major climate change shocks, community adaptations and coping strategies in semi-arid areas of Uganda. The study adopted both qualitative and quantitative research approaches. The study was conducted in four districts namely Nakasongola, Rakai, Soroti and Kiruhura. Seven hundred households were subjected to semi-structured interviews. In addition, field observations, Remote Sensing, GIS and modeling techniques were used capture the trends of biophysical (land-use/cover; carbon stock) and socio-economic parameters. Results indicated that drought, war, foot and mouth disease; and long drought spells, strong winds, increased pests and diseases especially termites, and increased frequency of floods are among the shocks faced by pastoralists and cultivators respectively. In addition, cultivators were facing a number of challenges including fuel wood scarcity, inadequate pasture, inadequate technical knowledge, inadequate tools and materials, and lack of income. Farmers perceived training and formation of farmer associations, use of pesticides, use of soil and water conservation practices and saving part of the income as major coping strategies. There is need for sensitization for diversification of livelihoods, community participation in joint climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies and strengthen community institutions for regeneration of drylands.