Climate Change Impact in My Local Community: Drought in Kayonza District, Eastern Rwanda
One major climate change induced impact affecting my local community is prolonged drought in Kayonza District, located in Eastern Rwanda. Over the past years, rainfall patterns have become increasingly unpredictable, with long dry seasons and delayed or insufficient rains. This situation reflects broader global climate change trends but is deeply felt at the local level.
The drought presents serious challenges for community members, especially smallholder farmers who depend on rain fed agriculture. Crop failures are common, particularly for maize, beans, and bananas, which affects food security and household income. Livestock suffer due to lack of pasture and water, leading to reduced milk and meat production. Water scarcity has also increased the burden on women and children, who often walk long distances to fetch water. In addition, prolonged drought contributes to malnutrition, health problems, and increased poverty.
The community has started adapting in several ways. Some farmers are shifting to drought tolerant crops such as cassava, sorghum, and sweet potatoes. Rainwater harvesting systems, including water tanks and small reservoirs, are being promoted at household and community levels. The government and development partners have supported irrigation projects, especially in marshlands, to reduce dependence on rainfall. There are also awareness programs on climate smart agriculture, soil conservation, and efficient water use. At the individual level, people are adjusting planting calendars and adopting mulching techniques to retain soil moisture.
Despite these efforts, more support is needed in terms of affordable irrigation technologies, early warning systems, and climate education. Addressing drought in Kayonza requires both local action and strong climate policies to build long term resilience.