September 5, 2024
News
The so-called Fertile Crescent, about which we learn in school, is now suffering the consequences of climate change. Farmers in Iraq are facing crop failure due to drought and weather fluctuations. Caritas Czech Republic is helping them to adapt so that they can harvest despite climate change. Such as Waseem, who has received training in modern farming methods and irrigation systems.
We are seeing the effects of climate change first-hand
"My favourite crop is this grape vine, especially when I see the grapes ripening," says Waseem as he shows us around his fields in the city of Karakosh in northern Iraq. "I have a total of 31 different grape vines, can you believe it? I am a grape specialist," smiles Waseem. In addition to grapes, he also grows wheat, cucumbers and other vegetables. He sells his harvest mostly at local markets. "I work together with my brothers. There are six of us and we farm together on our land," says the farmer, looking around the surrounding land owned by the family. The sun is setting, creating an idyllic atmosphere. But the lives of local farmers are far from idyllic.
For centuries, farming has been good around Karakosh in the fertile Nineveh Plains. But climate change is depriving local farmers of their crops. Waseem is also feeling the changes. "I have lived here in Karakosh all my life. Now we are seeing first-hand how climate change is affecting our fields, our crops," says the farmer. "Especially in the summer there are increasingly higher temperatures and drought that can destroy the entire summer crop," Waseem adds sadly.
Caritas Czech Republic is helping farmers like Waseem adapt to the changing climate. Through training in modern farming methods, farmers learn how to grow and harvest successfully despite weather fluctuations. "I found the training very important and beneficial. It allowed me to start the season with new skills and I was able to use the techniques that Caritas Czech Republic taught me," Waseem praises. Waseem also received an irrigation system from Caritas Czech Republic, so he does not have to rely on irregular rainfall.
How Caritas Czech Republic is helping in Iraq
At Caritas Czech Republic, we recognise the urgency of tackling climate change and its impacts. We are actively seeking ways to mitigate the effects of desertification, conducting climate studies and helping Iraqi farmers adapt to climate change. This is done, for example, through training in modern farming methods, where they learn how to grow and harvest crops despite weather fluctuations. In addition to the necessary information, we supply farmers with modern agricultural irrigation systems and introduce them to drought-resistant seeds.
We are also helping with post-war reconstruction in Iraq. We provide business skills training and grants to people trying to rebuild their lives after the war with the self-proclaimed Islamic State. This enables them to start or rebuild their businesses. For example, a carpentry workshop or a bakery has already been set up in Iraq thanks to our help.
