The Climate Smart Initiative (CSI) was launched in July 2013, as an adjunct to the existing Government of Ethiopia’s Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP) and Household Asset Building Programme (HABP); two of the key mechanisms of the Government to tackle food security issues and related rural livelihoods strengthening.
CSI was designed to pilot approaches that consider climate change within this larger, established context, working within existing Government approaches and cycles. This Story of Change provides an example of how CSI has affected Tesfay, a 76 year-old, head of a household of two in Maihambar watershed, Endalashen kebele, Ahferom woreda, Tigray.
Tesfay was struggling with the impacts of erratic rainfall, flood and drought, but it was only through the CVCA validation process that he became aware of the role of backyard irrigation. He could not only turn his problem of flooding into a solution to drought, it could provide a much needed livelihood option. He constructed a micro-dam and is now able to grow vegetables and better conserve his backyard soil. He is an inspiration to other older community members.
Read the other stories of change:
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change One: Hassna
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Two: Mesaye
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Three: Ayale and Berlie
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Four: Babeye Bantider, HABP Agribusiness Expert
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Five: Biruk Legesse, Daru Labu Woreda HABP Expert
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Six: Jamal
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Seven: Sileshi
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Eight: Sadik Shabure, PSNP-PW Foreman
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Nine: Gulilat Melaku, Development Agent
Climate Smart Initiative Story of Change Ten: Alulla Tekelay, PSNP Public Works Focal Person
