In the heart of Iraq, a pressing question is being asked: how can farmers adapt to climate change and secure their livelihoods? Rayan Kadem, a researcher from the Department of Agricultural Extension and Technology Transfer at the University of Mosul, has been delving into this very issue, exploring how smart farming techniques can help growers confront the challenges posed by a changing climate.
Kadem’s recent study, published in the Mesopotamia Journal of Agriculture (also known as the Journal of Agriculture of Mesopotamia), surveyed 120 farmers in the Sheikhhan district to gauge their adoption of smart farming techniques. The results were eye-opening. “We found that 69.2% of respondents had a weak application level,” Kadem explains. This means that a significant majority of farmers are not yet fully utilizing the tools and techniques that could help them adapt to climate change.
The study also revealed that access to information sources and participation in extension activities were significantly correlated with the application level of smart agriculture techniques. In other words, farmers who are well-informed and engaged with agricultural extension services are more likely to adopt smart farming practices. However, the study found no significant correlation between age or educational attainment and the application level, suggesting that these factors may not be as influential as previously thought.
One of the most striking findings of the study was the high cost of implementing smart farming techniques. As Kadem puts it, “The issue of high costs ranked first with the highest percentage (2.63%).” This highlights a major barrier to the widespread adoption of smart farming techniques, particularly in regions where resources may be limited.
So, what does this mean for the future of agriculture and the energy sector? For one, it underscores the need for investment in smart agriculture. As Kadem recommends, attracting capital investments into smart agriculture and establishing dedicated communication channels related to food security could go a long way in helping farmers adapt to climate change.
Moreover, the study’s findings could shape future developments in the field by highlighting the importance of access to information and engagement with extension services. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, it will be crucial to ensure that farmers have the support and resources they need to adopt smart farming techniques and build resilience to climate change.
In the end, Kadem’s research serves as a reminder that the path to a more sustainable and secure future for agriculture is not always straightforward. But with the right investments, information, and support, farmers can overcome the challenges posed by climate change and build a more resilient and prosperous future.