These challenging focus areas, predominantly due to human activities and climate fluctuations, constitute a global crisis. The impact is pervasive and inconspicuous, affecting populations worldwide. As essential aspects of human existence rely on fertile, productive land, addressing degradation and rehabilitating compromised areas through land restoration is crucial to bolster biodiversity, reinstate ecosystem services, and mitigate the effects of climate change.

PrAEctiCe’s activities are concentrated in East Africa, where human activities have accelerated the issue of desertification due to overgrazing, negative agricultural practices, and deforestation. These practices are encouraged by a growing population that relies directly upon the land to survive.

How does the PrAEctiCe project contribute solutions for desertification, land degradation, and drought resilience?

The prevailing consensus asserts that agriculture significantly contributes to climate change and faces substantial challenges adapting to its impacts. Agroecological approaches entail the application of holistic ecological, economic, and social principles to facilitate the transition of smallholder farming systems towards increased resilience.

Implementation involves customising agroecological principles to specific local conditions. These principles encompass diversification, recycling, and establishing stronger links between producers and consumers. Agroecology comprises transdisciplinary science, sustainable agricultural practices, and social movements precipitating widespread behaviour change.

The vision of PrAEctiCe is to assist smallholder farmers in East Africa in the transition to agroecological practices. This involves exploring the potential of agroecological practices, particularly focusing on circular water-energy-nutrient systems of integrated aqua-agriculture. The aim is to develop a novel set of agroecology indicators that keep the needs of smallholder farmers at the centre. To achieve this vision, a dedicated Decision Support Tool will provide practical guidance and establish agroecological guidelines for farmers by collecting data and offering solutions for various challenges.