Livelihood Security: Climate change, conflict and migration in - UNEP

Annex 8. Adapting to change: Lessons from local best practices
The following examples highlight traditional adaptation measures utilized by various local communities
with respect to floods and droughts, as well as a number of integrated adaptation strategies that can be
drawn upon to enhance resilience in the face of cumulative changes in climate. The list is not meant to
be exhaustive, but rather aims to highlight the types of local measures that should be taken into consideration
as national and regional adaptation strategies are formalized. Although many of these strategies are
highly context-specific, these experiences can help inform adaptation policies for regions facing similar
changes in climate.
Floods
The sudden onset of floods can have severe consequences for communities, particularly in urban areas
that have relatively high population density. In Ilorin, Nigeria, a region prone to flooding, an analysis was
conducted on ways to reduce the risks associated with flood damage. 235 Specific recommendations
highlighted in the study include:
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Drought
Establishing laws and effective enforcement mechanisms that prohibit development in flood plains;
Mandating changes in urban and housing designs that can better withstand the sudden onset of
flooding;
Investing in appropriate infrastructure such as appropriate drainage systems;
Promoting the construction of canals and dykes to protect the riverbank; and
Incorporating the development of flood shelters and assistance shelters, as well as the provision of
emergency housing and drinking water into community emergency preparedness programmes.
Over the last 100 years, the region has faced severe recurrent drought. 236 In response, local farmers have
developed a number of adaptation strategies, including the use of agroforestry, drought resistant crops
and infiltration ponds. Agroforestry is an integrated approach that balances the cultivation of food crops
and forests. This approach has been increasingly used in areas where drier conditions and higher population
densities are prevalent. 237 As agroforestry techniques are further developed, both scientific research
and local knowledge should be considered:
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Specifically, baobab and acacia trees have been identified by researchers as valuable species that
can be used for agroforestry in drier areas of the region. 238
Local knowledge on which tree species thrive under varying ecological conditions can help to inform
more diversified agroforestry practices. For example, in south-western Nigeria, a 1988 study revealed
a similar practice, in which local populations grew shade-tolerant crops such as Dioscorea spp. and
cocoyam in an essentially permanent forest setting. 239
The cultivation of drought-resistant crops can enable farmers to better withstand dry seasons. In
particular, using the early maturing varieties of these crops 240 can also have positive benefits for
dryland communities especially during the period prior to harvest when food reserves run dry. 241
Pearl millet has been identified as one of the most drought-tolerant crops of all the major staples.
Sorghum and millet are prominent cereal crops grown in dryland regions and are essential for food,
as well as feed for livestock. Additionally, a variety of millet known as Okashana 1 has been widely
used by farmers in Namibia due to its early maturation cycle. 242 Furthermore, multipurpose grain
legumes have been identified as a source of low-cost protein that can also help to restore soil fertility.
Of these, the cowpea is most widely grown in the dry regions of Africa. Scientific research supported
by the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture has enabled the usage of improved cowpeas in
over 60 countries.
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