The citizen science approach has proven instrumental in achieving key objectives of Sub-Project 2: “Mechanisms for climate change adaptation for sustainable food production.” Launched in 2023, the network currently comprises 133 members.
Excluding the 16 project team members, the active network includes 27 smallholder farmers and 9 sub-county agricultural officers who use smartphones for digital data collection, alongside 81 smallholder farmers who document their production practices manually using customized booklets.
As expected, the initial phase came with a fair share of challenges, particularly for the farmers. Those using smartphones often faced difficulties navigating the KoboCollect app and ensuring successful form submission.
Issues such as sustainable battery charging, poor internet connectivity, and rapid data depletion due to automatic app downloads added to the complexity. For the group using booklets, uncertainty around what to record and when posed a different kind of learning curve. Through continued training and regular engagement with the project team, these hurdles have gradually been overcome.
Progress So Far
Two years into implementation, farmers using smartphones have submitted a total of 786 digital forms, while farmers using booklets have contributed data across four consecutive seasons. These submissions have enabled the project to monitor seasonal cropping patterns, challenges linked to climate variability, and farmer-led adaptation strategies.
Additionally, data collected by sub-county agricultural officers totaling 43 reports has been critical in tracking the incidence, intensity, and severity of climatic hazards, including droughts, floods, hailstorms, landslides, and strong winds.
What Keeps the Network Active?
WhatsApp Group Communication:
A dedicated WhatsApp group has become a vibrant platform for peer learning, with members regularly consulting each other on agricultural production issues and sharing locally adapted solutions.
- Annual Refresher Workshops:
These training sessions have deepened members’ understanding of the project’s objectives and their roles, keeping them aligned and motivated.
- Recognition and Appreciation:
Certificates of appreciation were awarded to all members, with additional recognition given to exceptional contributors. This gesture has strengthened farmers’ sense of belonging and connection to the project and the university.
- Periodic Follow-Up Visits:
Regular field visits by the project team have provided an opportunity to discuss a wide range of agricultural issues. These visits have also reinforced commitment among farmers and maintained momentum for participation.
