In the rolling hills of Tanzania’s Southern Highlands, a quiet revolution is taking root, one that promises to bolster the resilience of smallholder farmers against the whims of a changing climate. Conservation Agriculture (CA), a farming approach that prioritizes minimal soil disturbance, permanent organic soil cover, and diversified cropping, is gaining traction among farmers in the Mbeya region and surrounding areas. A recent study published in *Frontiers in Sustainable Food Systems* sheds light on how these practices are not only adapting to climate change but also enhancing productivity and profitability.
The study, led by Adolph Katunzi from the Tanzania Agricultural Research Institute (TARI-Uyole), analyzed temperature and rainfall data alongside on-station and on-farm trials between 2015 and 2024. The results revealed a warming trend, with temperatures rising by 0.040°C per year for maximum temperatures and 0.026°C per year for minimum temperatures. Rainfall patterns were equally variable, ranging from 903.9 mm to 1518.7 mm annually. Despite these challenges, CA practices showed promising results.
One of the most striking findings was the performance of maize yields under different farming practices. In 2021, maize yields under planting basins reached 8.5 tonnes per hectare, significantly outperforming no-till (6.2 t/ha) and conventional ox-ploughing (6.0 t/ha). “The use of planting basins not only improved water retention but also enhanced soil health, leading to better yields,” Katunzi explained. This translates to substantial economic benefits for farmers. The study found that CA practices increased profit margins for maize from USD 176.6 to USD 526.9 and for beans from USD 376.3 to USD 917.4.
The economic implications of these findings are profound. For smallholder farmers, who often operate on narrow profit margins, the adoption of CA practices can mean the difference between subsistence and a sustainable livelihood. “Conservation Agriculture is not just about adapting to climate change; it’s about building a more resilient and profitable farming system,” Katunzi noted. The reduced production costs and increased yields can attract investment and stimulate economic growth in rural areas, ultimately contributing to food security and poverty alleviation.
However, the journey towards widespread adoption of CA is not without its challenges. The study identified several barriers, including the burning of crop residues, competition between crops and livestock for resources, and limited access to inputs. Addressing these challenges will require a multi-faceted approach, involving policy support, tailored extension services, and institutional coordination.
The research underscores the potential of CA as a climate-smart intervention in farming systems. As climate change continues to pose threats to agricultural productivity, the need for sustainable and resilient farming practices becomes ever more critical. The findings of this study provide a roadmap for scaling up CA practices, not just in Tanzania but in other regions facing similar challenges.
Looking ahead, the study’s insights could shape future developments in the field of agritech and sustainable agriculture. By integrating CA practices with other innovative technologies, such as precision farming and agroforestry, farmers can further enhance their resilience and productivity. The study’s emphasis on the economic benefits of CA also highlights the need for continued investment in research and extension services to support farmers in adopting these practices.
In the words of Adolph Katunzi, “The future of farming lies in our ability to adapt and innovate. Conservation Agriculture offers a pathway to a more sustainable and prosperous future for smallholder farmers.” As the world grapples with the impacts of climate change, the lessons from the Southern Highlands of Tanzania offer a beacon of hope and a model for sustainable intensification.