Strengthening national food security, Proactive measures against El Niño

Strengthening national food security, Proactive measures against El Niño

As climate scientists forecast the onset of El Niño, the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) urged agricultural communities to adopt climate-smart practices to protect national food security against prolonged heat, water shortages, and drought.

Climate change disproportionately affected the agricultural sector, making proactive preparation essential to mitigate damage to livelihoods and harvests. The MAFF outlined several priority strategies for farmers to enhance resilience.

The ministry said water management remained the primary focus. It advised farmers to repair irrigation infrastructure, maintain existing ponds and reservoirs, and adopt water-efficient techniques such as drip irrigation. The ministry noted that cooperation at the community level was vital to protect canals, streams, and watersheds to ensure water security throughout the dry season.

Soil health was equally critical. The ministry said farmers should use organic mulch and retain crop residues to reduce evaporation and protect plants from extreme heat. It said that shifting toward drought-tolerant crop varieties and diversifying harvests mitigated the risk of total crop loss during adverse weather conditions.

Regarding livestock, the ministry stressed the necessity of providing continuous access to clean water, shaded areas, and well-ventilated shelters. It urged farmers to monitor animals closely for signs of heat stress or disease.

Fire prevention was another pillar of the national strategy. The ministry prohibited the burning of crop residues or land clearing through fire during the dry season, as these practices significantly increased the risk of uncontrolled wildfires. It encouraged farmers to maintain firebreaks and participate in community-led fire detection and suppression initiatives.

The ministry highlighted the role of technology and information. It advised farmers to consult with agricultural extension officers and monitor seasonal forecasts to inform decisions regarding planting, pest management, and harvesting.

Resilience required a collaborative approach involving the government, development partners, and the private sector. The ministry said investments in irrigation infrastructure, climate-resilient seeds, and early warning systems remained central to government efforts. By standing alongside the nation’s farmers, the state aimed to safeguard the future of Cambodia’s agricultural sector against the challenges posed by El Niño.

-Khmer Times-