The SFHC program focuses on sustainable agricultural methods and nutrition, and part of this work includes education about climate change. We held a workshop with farmers last year, and gave an overview of scientific understandings about climate change. It was the first time they were exposed to these ideas, and they were shocked. They had observed changes in rainfall but had attributed them to local deforestation.
One female farmer angrily said, “If you are telling me that your country’s cars and factories are causing these changes in the rains, then what is your government doing about it?” Her question made me reflect on the responsibility all Canadians have to address their greenhouse gas emissions, as well as support Africans in adapting to this new reality. Not only is Canada one of the highest per – capita greenhouse gas emitters, but our federal government has played a negative role in global climate change negotiations.
Learning about climate change has motivated Malawian farmers to organize tree planting, grow more drought – tolerant crops and legume intercrops, which improve soil quality under dry conditions. At times I feel discouraged about making tiny changes to a huge problem, but I become hopeful when I see a big field of sorghum—a local drought – tolerant grain—and hear a farmer’s enthusiasm about her efforts.
Maria Mayuni is one of these farmers who gives me hope. She is very proud of her crop diversification. “I want to be known as a sorghum farmer,” she says with a smile. Her neighbours are also experimenting with intercropping legumes and sorghum with Maria’s advice. It is encouraging to see how Maria’s increased knowledge, along with support from the SFHC program, is leading her to improve her food security, her soils, and to share that knowledge in her community.
But there are worrying signs for the future. The political and economic situation is worsening, with Malawi’s president showing increasing signs of authoritarianism. People are frustrated by increasing prices and fuel shortages, and blame government mismanagement. Protests have been organized by civil society organizations, after a list of demands presented to the government was ignored.
Please pray that Malawians can find peaceful ways for change, pray for Malawian farmers as they adapt to a changing climate, and pray that Canadians will address climate change both individually and as a nation, so others do not have to pay the price for our high standard of living.
Note: Since this letter was written, Malawi saw widespread protests on July 20 and 21, during which the police and army used force, people burned government buildings, and at least 18 people were killed. Hundreds were arrested. The UN called on the government to investigate, but the government has denied any wrongdoing. A second protest was called for Aug. 17, but was cancelled.
Noteworthy
PWS&D’s Soils, Food and Healthy Communities program was highlighted in the News section of the July/August Record, and was also in a short article entitled, Healthy Communities in Malawi in May 2009. Today, with the support of CFGB, PWS&D is supporting the SFHC program with $100,000 a year to help deal with the impact of climate change and drought in the area.
