Regional Climate Trends and Their Implications for East Africa’s Agricultural Sustainability

Ukwuaba Jacintha K.

Faculty of Engineering Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

East Africa’s agricultural sector faces profound challenges due to shifting climate patterns, impacting livelihoods and food security across the region. This review examines the evolving climate dynamics in East Africa and their implications for agricultural sustainability. Temperature trends reveal a warming trend, altering agricultural zones and affecting crop growth cycles. Changes in precipitation patterns, including variability in intensity and duration, have a significant impact on water availability, which is critical for irrigation and livestock management. Climate extremes such as droughts, floods, and cyclones are increasing in frequency, disrupting farming communities and exacerbating crop losses and livestock mortality. Seasonal variability further complicates agricultural planning, influencing planting schedules and harvest times. This review synthesises current research, case studies, and data-driven analyses to provide insights into how ecological changes are reshaping agricultural landscapes in East Africa. It highlights the interconnectedness between climate dynamics and agricultural sustainability, stressing the urgency of adopting climate-smart practices and policies to mitigate risks and build resilience. Key strategies include promoting drought-resistant crop varieties, implementing efficient water management techniques, and integrating precision agriculture with climate information services. Policy and institutional frameworks play a crucial role in supporting these efforts by incentivizing climate-resilient practices and investing in agricultural research. By understanding and addressing these regional climate trends, policymakers, farmers, and stakeholders can enhance agricultural resilience, ensure food security, and sustain livelihoods in East Africa amidst ongoing climate challenges.

Keywords: Regional Climate, Trends, Agricultural Sustainability, East Africa

CITE AS: Ukwuaba Jacintha K. (2024). Regional Climate Trends and Their Implications for East Africa’s Agricultural Sustainability. IDOSR JOURNAL OF COMPUTER AND APPLIED SCIENCES 9(1):1-5. https://doi.org/10.59298/JCAS/2024/91.1569000