Researchers from the Global Burden of Crop Loss (GBCL) say crop losses linked to climate shocks, pests and diseases are raising food insecurity in Africa. They point to erratic rainfall, floods and biological threats as main causes.
In Kimilili, western Kenya, Salome Kibunde farms five hectares and supports a household of nine. In 2025 rain in March allowed planting but stopped for nearly two weeks in April and germination was disrupted. Short rains were unreliable and a drought returned during early growth. Excess rain at harvest caused maize to rot. Her losses rose from two bags of rotten maize last year to about six bags in 2025, and CABI training has helped her cope.
In Nigeria, Yunusa Halidu says floods have grown worse in recent decades and rising input costs make it hard for many farmers to break even.
Difficult words
- food insecurity — not having enough safe food
- germination — when seeds start to grow
- erratic — not regular and not predictable
- drought — a long period without rain
- rot — to decay and become bad
- input cost — money farmers pay for seeds and fuelinput costs
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- What could help farmers cope after a season with erratic rain or floods?
- Have you seen problems with rain or floods where you live? What happened?
- Do you think training for farmers (like CABI training) is useful? Why or why not?
Related articles
Hot, humid pregnancy harms child growth more than heat alone
New research in Science Advances shows that hot, humid conditions during pregnancy damage child growth far more than high temperature by itself. The study used a combined metric (WBGT) in South Asia and found much larger prenatal risks when humidity is included.
Action still needed to end hunger and change food systems
Experts say stronger action is needed after the 2021 UN Food Systems Summit. They note progress in research and national plans, but rising conflicts, climate extremes and funding limits put progress at risk. A stocktake will take place in Ethiopia this month.
