Women embrace above-the-ground farming to beat climate change in Northern Cameroon

In Northern Cameroon, women in the Kerawa Refugee Camp are adopting an 'aboveground farming system' to combat the effects of climate change and ensure food security. This method involves growing crops in containers like bags and cans, using limited water resources. The initiative, led by the women's rights group 'L’Asocciation de lute contre les violences faites aux femmes' and supported by the United Nations Environmental Programme, aims to provide a sustainable way of farming in arid conditions. The region has been affected by intercommunal clashes and Boko Haram attacks, with climate change exacerbating resource scarcity and conflict. Local environmental groups and government initiatives are also contributing to regreening efforts and water infrastructure development. The article highlights the importance of investment and training for women to sustain this agricultural practice, which could prevent future conflicts and improve food security.

Women in Kenya adopt baobab business to mitigate climate change

In coastal Kenya, women from Mbulia Taita Taveta County are turning to the baobab business as a sustainable alternative to charcoal burning, which has detrimental environmental effects. The baobab tree, known as the 'tree of life,' is central to the livelihoods of these communities. Women like Marline Mwashimba and Josephine Mwasambo have found that engaging in the baobab business has improved their lives and self-esteem. Rachel Wali Mwakazi, a community development expert, initiated the Beulah Gardens cottage industry to combat deforestation and create job opportunities. The project empowers women, providing them with financial stability and elevating their social status. The baobab products include powder, oil, and seed cake, which are valuable in various industries. The article also highlights the role of the Mraru Farmers Field School and the FAO in supporting these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of value addition in agriculture to align with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

During the 75th United Nations General Assembly last September 2021, a majority of African presidents including that of Ghana Akufo Ado, Maki Salle of Senegal, Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya maintained that the UN needs to reform to include current challenges.

The Urgent Need for Land Restoration in Africa

The article discusses the urgent need to address land degradation in Africa, as highlighted by experts at the Digital Global Landscape Forum. Abdalkader Bensada of UNEP emphasized the impact of land degradation on people's wellbeing and the importance of restoring livelihoods. Tony Simons of ICRAF pointed out the economic and environmental benefits of engaging youth in regreening efforts. Environmental activists and experts like Fatou Jeng, Helina Teklu, and Desmond Alugnnoa discussed the potential of dry land restoration to provide employment for Africa's youth. Ibrahim Thiaw and Wanjira Mathai stressed the need to dispel myths about dry lands and to empower local populations. Kalifa Traore highlighted the economic benefits of restoration. The forum also underscored the importance of global collaboration in ecosystem restoration to combat climate change and ensure food security, aligning with the UN's Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030).