Climate change predicted to cause problems for Ethiopia
All across the world, stories reveal people’s struggles as they adjust to the negative impact of climate change. According to a new study by Oxfam International, small scale farmers and pastoralists face an uphill battle as climate change makes its unwelcomed presence known across Ethiopia. Ethiopia is one the poorest countries in the world, and 85 percent of the population depends on agriculture. The agricultural sector is vulnerable to adversities of weather and climate because it depends on rain. Inconsistent weather makes it difficult for communities and families to get ahead as many have been forced to sell livestock However, to cope with the inconsistent weather, many small-scale farmers use more drought tolerant crops and varieties and diversified energy sources. Pastoralists change the composition of their heard from cattle to camels and goats, which can tolerate dry hot weather.
Oxfam has also made recommendations to increase resilience so communities can bounce back from climatic shocks. In general, they want a national framework for guiding climate change adaptation and mitigation implemented, increased used of renewable energy, and the assistance from rich countries to help Ethiopia adapt.
You can read the press release here
