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Showing posts from February, 2024

Navigating the Uncertain Future of Rain-fed Agriculture in the Era of Climate Change

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Written by Elfas Mcloud Zadzagomo Shangwa (HUNTER) Introduction : Rain-fed agriculture has long been the backbone of food production worldwide, supporting the livelihoods of millions of farmers. However, as climate change accelerates, the reliance on rainfall for crop cultivation is becoming increasingly precarious and unpredictable. The shifting weather patterns, changing precipitation levels, and more frequent extreme events associated with climate change pose significant challenges to farmers who depend on rain-fed agriculture for their sustenance. The Impact of Climate Change on Rain-fed Agriculture: Climate change is altering traditional weather patterns, leading to more frequent and intense droughts, floods, and storms in many regions. These disruptions upset the delicate balance that rain-fed agriculture relies on, making it difficult for farmers to anticipate when and how much rain will fall. Prolonged dry spells followed by sudden heavy rainfall can result in crop failures, so...

Organic Fertilizers For Agroecology

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Introduction: Agriculture is the backbone of many rural communities, providing sustenance, livelihoods, and a deep connection to the land. However, conventional agricultural practices often rely on synthetic inputs that can degrade soil health, compromise ecological balance, and contribute to environmental degradation. In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the need for more sustainable and regenerative agricultural approaches, with agroecology emerging as a promising paradigm for fostering a harmonious relationship between farming and the environment.  One key aspect of agroecology is the production and utilization of homemade animal manure organic fertilizers, commonly known as compost teas, to enhance soil fertility and crop production while preserving ecological integrity. Advantages of Homemade Animal Manure Organic Fertilizers: Homemade animal manure organic fertilizers offer numerous advantages over conventional synthetic fertilizers. Firstly, these organic...

The Young Beautiful Botswana Potato Farmer

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Dumelang! My name is Phatsimo Laone Mokwena, and at the age of 21, I have found my passion and purpose in the fertile soils of Botswana.  After finishing my form 5 (BGCSE) in 2020 with 33 points, just below the average needed to attend university, I was at a crossroads. But rather than let this set me back, I embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that led me to the beauty and bounty of agriculture.  Listen to my Story In 2021, I dove into baking, which, although it did well, left me searching for more in the oversaturated market. It was a move to Mathangwane village and a conversation with my aunt about a mushroom production course that shifted my trajectory towards farming.   I am now proud to call myself a Potato Farmer. The skills and Knowledge Transfer sessions , conducted  by Farmer's Pride International  through its  Rural and Urban Agriculture Innovative Production Program (RUAIPP), opened up a world of opportunity  for me . Not only did I lear...

Health Benefits of Potato Water/ Juice

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Written by Elfas Mcloud Zadzagomo Shangwa (Hunter) to encourage Potato farming in Africa through unavailing its many health benefits to our health. Health benefits found in Potato Juice and how you can make it. Potato water mixed with lemon and honey is a simple and potentially beneficial beverage that can be used as a nutrition intake for health and wellness. To make this drink, you boil potatoes in water and then strain the water to separate it from the potatoes. This starchy water can then be combined with lemon juice and honey to create a refreshing and nutritious beverage. Photo Credit Research Gate Potato water contains some of the water-soluble nutrients from the potatoes, such as certain vitamins and minerals. When combined with lemon juice, which is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants, and honey, which provides natural sweetness and potential health benefits, the resulting mixture can offer a range of potential health properties. The combination of potato water, lemon,...

Challenges That Are Hindering Agriculture In Africa

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The challenges faced by agriculture in Africa are complex and multifaceted. While the continent does hold a significant proportion of the world's arable land and benefits from abundant natural resources, numerous factors prevent the agricultural sector from reaching its full potential.  Considering the challenges facing the success of agriculture in Africa, the focus is on effectively managing efforts to develop and promote sustainability, both within the agricultural sector and the broader economy, amidst the potential threats of unemployment, food-related issues, conflicts, migration, and desertification.  Here are some of the key issues, expanded with additional facts and considerations: Photo credit Times Of Agriculture:  1. **Policy and Governance**:  Effective policies are crucial for the development of agriculture. However, in many African countries, policies may be inconsistent, short-term, or poorly implemented, often due to a lack of political will, corrupt...