Working Document Series Open Access 2012 RUF-32863

Applying Large Area Modelling Approach to Assess the Impacts of Climate Variability and Change: Informing Policy and Adaptation - A review

N. KihupiB. MsongaleliF.B.R. RwehumbizaS.D. Tumbo

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Abstract

160 words

This review highlights some pertinent methodologies in dealing with uncertainty in climate projections and how crop models are increasingly used to support decisions at various levels to guide food security policy formulation, management and regulations. Crop models are increasingly being used on a large spatial scale, often coupled with general circulation models (GCMs) to assess the impact of climate variability and the effect of El Niño/Southern Oscillation (ENSO) on agricultural production and food security. Therefore, using climate change projections and crop models in order to understand the impacts of climate change on rainfed agriculture, especially on cereals (maize and sorghum), is very helpful to policy makers. Policy makers need information on the potential impact of climate change for the next few decades, as they are developing plans that will affect different sectors. In conclusion, this review demonstrates the need for calibrating and validating different crop models to attain the standard climate change impact assessment methodology for the East Africa region.

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