- Crop losses are rising across many countries in Africa.
- Rain falls at planting then stops for many days.
- Floods damage fields, stores, local roads and homes too.
- Pests and diseases destroy crops and greatly reduce yields.
- Small farmers lose food, savings and important income.
- Women often pool small harvests to share food locally.
- Some training helps farmers manage risks and adapt better.
- People need water, seeds, credit and weather information.
Difficult words
- crop — Plants grown by farmers for food or sale
- flood — Too much water covering land or fieldsFloods
- pest — Animal or insect that harms plantsPests
- disease — Illness or infection that hurts plantsdiseases
- yield — The amount of crop produced by landyields
- credit — Money lent to buy seeds or supplies
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you ever seen a flood?
- Do you know a farmer or someone who grows crops?
- Do you check weather information before planting or gardening?
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