Africa at crossroads to combat climate change

Africa's agricultural backbone is facing mounting pressure from various challenges such as climate change, deforestation, harmful pesticides, and soil erosion. These threats not only jeopardize the sustainability of agriculture in Kenya and East Africa but also have far-reaching implications on livelihoods and the global food supply. In a recent interview with CNBC Africa, Paul Coliditz, Commercial Director of Fairtrade Africa, shed light on the Be Fair Right Now initiative aimed at addressing these pressing issues. The campaign urges consumers to take immediate action and make purchasing decisions aligned with their values for a positive impact on farmers and the environment. By promoting awareness and conscious consumption, Fairtrade Africa aims to empower consumers to support fair trade brands in Africa, ultimately driving sustainable practices in the agricultural sector. One key aspect highlighted by Coliditz is the importance of fair wages for farmers, as inadequate compensation hampers their ability to reinvest in their farms, leading to lower productivity and economic challenges. The Be Fair Right Now campaign emphasizes the need for living incomes and wages that enable farmers to achieve decent livelihoods and ensure the sustainability of agricultural production. Coliditz also emphasized the role of mechanisms such as fair trade certification, aggregation of producers, and value addition to enhance farmers' bargaining power and income opportunities. These initiatives are vital for addressing the issue of fair pricing practices and advocating for a trading environment that prioritizes producers' welfare. Furthermore, Coliditz underscored the significance of resilience in African agriculture, especially in the face of climate change and fluctuating market pressures. Building resilience through sustainable food systems, diversification of crops, and investment in climate-smart agricultural practices is crucial for safeguarding the future of agriculture in Africa and ensuring food security. By adopting a proactive approach to sustainability and prioritizing resilience-building efforts, African countries can overcome the challenges posed by climatic disruptions and contribute to the long-term viability of the agricultural sector.