The Act Differently project, promoted by the World Food Programme (WFP) in eastern Cuba. Strengthens drought management to achieve the resilience of local food systems. In agricultural production and livestock management.
Developed in the municipalities of Holguin, Granma, Guantanamo, Las Tunas, and Santiago de Cuba. The plan includes a strategy aimed at mitigating the impact of climate aridity on agricultural activities in territories vulnerable to prolonged periods of drought. Ana Lourdes Brito Moreno, coordinator of Hazard, Vulnerability, and Risk Studies in Santiago, told CNA.
By strengthening hydrometeorological monitoring, which incorporated agricultural aspects. They identified weaknesses in local food production and, together with agricultural methods, designed complementary studies to enrich the scientific base. Aldo implemented a set of actions focused on reducing the likelihood of damage.
Among the measures were the planting of varieties resistant to pests and lack of rainfall. The application of organic matter, an increase in intercropping. Moreover the use of live fences, which addressed problems such as water availability. The use of varieties unsuitable for drought, and soil quality, she explained.
Regarding livestock management, the planting of forage plants for animal feed. Reforestation to increase shade areas, the acquisition of resistant species. Futhermore breed improvement, and the relocation and expansion of grazing areas were considered as ways to reduce overcrowding.
To facilitate farmers’ access to information, early warning tools were improved. Including weather monitoring bulletins with monthly forecasts, seasonal outlooks aimed at recommending short-cycle crops. And ten-year supplements aimed at immediate decision-making.
Brito Moreno highlighted the multidisciplinary collaboration that underpins the strategy. Involving the Ministries of Science, Technology, and Environment, the Ministry of Agriculture, provincial meteorological centers. Civil Defense, Water Resources delegations, and university campuses. Among other stakeholders responsible for monitoring and dissemination.
The measures implemented are aligned with national programs, coordinating with Life Task. Also with the Cuban state plan focused on climate change adaptation and mitigation. As well as the directive responsible for comprehensive disaster risk management in the eastern region.
The Act Differently project, funded by the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). Seeks to improve nutrition among vulnerable groups by strengthening local capacities in the municipalities of Manati in Las Tunas. Jiguani in Granma; Urbano Noris in Holguin. Niceto Pérez in Guantanamo; and Guama in Santiago de Cuba.
With information from CNA
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