Smallholder and subsistence farmers represent a significant portion of the global agricultural workforce, with 2.5 billion people depending on agriculture for their livelihoods. Yet, these farmers often face poverty, malnutrition, and land insecurity. Despite their challenges, they hold generations of agricultural knowledge that could be pivotal in addressing pressing global issues like climate change, resource depletion, and food security.

Agriculture is both a vital industry and a major contributor to environmental degradation, responsible for over 30% of global greenhouse gas emissions, 80% of tropical deforestation, and 70% of freshwater withdrawals. The challenge lies in balancing efficient agricultural practices with environmental sustainability while supporting the livelihoods of farmers.

The Smarter Climate Farmers Challenge
To address these pressing challenges, the Smarter Climate Farmers Challenge was launched to identify innovative solutions that integrate food security, environmental sustainability, and climate resilience. Out of 246 global submissions, 12 solutions were chosen, each addressing critical issues in agriculture:

Key Innovations
Biological Crop Treatments (e.g., Alkama) – Eliminating the need for synthetic fertilisers and pesticides by leveraging natural soil ecosystems to boost yields while capturing carbon.
Empowering Women Farmers (e.g., AMAATI) – Training rural women to cultivate drought-resistant crops like fonio, fostering economic independence and food security.

Data and AI Solutions (e.g., AMINI, Dvara E-Registry) – Equipping smallholders with tools to improve crop management and secure financial resources.
Precision Agriculture (e.g., Instacrops, Spowdi) – Introducing efficient irrigation and smart farming technologies to save water, cut costs, and improve yields.
Circular Economy Models (e.g., BillionCarbon, Unibaio) – Recycling waste materials into bio-fertilisers and sustainable agrochemical alternatives.

These innovations highlight the potential of technology, inclusivity, and resource efficiency in transforming agriculture into a sustainable and productive industry.

Should Smallholder Farmers Embrace Modern Technology or Focus on Traditional Practices?