Farmers are facing several natural disaster like cyclone, hailstorm drought, salinity etc. regularly and agriculture sector is the first victim of such catastrophes! Is there any study linking the catastrophe and farmer's vulnerability in developing nations?
Mohammad Mominul Hoque
Yes, farmers in developing nations are highly vulnerable to natural disasters like cyclones, hailstorms, droughts, and salinity. For example, a World Bank study found that in Sub-Saharan Africa, droughts can reduce crop yields by up to 50%, causing severe income loss for farmers. In India, cyclones and floods result in yearly agricultural losses of over $9 billion. These disasters hit the agriculture sector first, making it crucial to have better disaster management and support systems for farmers.
One of the most direct ways disasters affect agriculture is through lower-than-expected production. This causes direct economic loss to farmers which can cascade along the entire value chain - even affecting the growth of the sector or entire national economies. you face the danger of death or physical injury. You may also lose your home, possessions, or community. Such stressors place you at risk for emotional and physical health problems. They cause rural unemployment, a decline in income for farmers and agricultural workers, and reduce the availability of food in local markets.
Here are the primary ways in which natural disasters impact agriculture and farmers’ livelihoods:
1. Direct Impact on Crops and Livestock, Destruction of Crops: Floods, droughts, hurricanes, and wildfires can destroy crops either partially or completely, leading to significant yield losses.
• Damage to Livestock: Severe weather events can cause injuries or deaths among livestock, reduce milk production, and affect the overall health of animals.
2. Soil and Water Resources
• Soil Erosion and Degradation: Heavy rains and floods can lead to soil erosion, washing away the topsoil that is crucial for crop growth. On the other hand, droughts can cause soil degradation and loss of fertility.
• Water Supply Disruption: Natural disasters can either cause water scarcity (drought) or contaminate water supplies (floods), both of which severely impact irrigation and drinking water for livestock.
3. Economic Impact
• Financial Losses: The destruction of crops and livestock leads to immediate financial losses for farmers, reducing their income and increasing their debts.
• Increased Costs: Post-disaster recovery often requires significant investment in replanting, repairing infrastructure, and purchasing new livestock, which adds to the financial burden.
4. Impact on Infrastructure
• Damage to Agricultural Infrastructure: Disasters can destroy critical infrastructure such as barns, irrigation systems, and greenhouses, disrupting agricultural activities.
• Transportation Disruptions: Damage to roads and bridges can hinder the transport of goods to markets, leading to further economic losses.
5. Long-term Livelihood Effects
• Reduced Food Security: Loss of crops and livestock can lead to food shortages, both for the affected farmers and the larger community.
• Migration and Displacement: Severe and recurrent natural disasters can force farmers to leave their land and migrate to urban areas in search of alternative livelihoods.
6. Psychosocial Impact
• Stress and Mental Health Issues: The uncertainty and financial strain caused by natural disasters can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues among farmers and their families.
Mohammad Mominul Hoque
Natural disasters like cyclones, hailstorms, droughts, and salinity severely impact agriculture and farmers' livelihoods in developing nations, causing crop loss, soil degradation, and economic instability. Studies, such as those by FAO and IFAD, highlight the significant vulnerability of smallholder farmers. Adaptive strategies like resilient crops, better irrigation, and early warning systems are essential. Raising awareness and sharing these insights can drive policy changes and support, engaging a wider audience and fostering community resilience.
We please prefer to avoid the term "natural disaster":
1. Book https://global.oup.com/academic/product/disaster-by-choice-9780198841357
2. Paper https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pdisas.2019.100008
3. Commentary https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/disaster-choice/202005/does-nature-play-disaster-games
4. Blog https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/disaster-choice
5. Vlog https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlVyY1UAOnU&list=PLCuu5t_nsFKC5IbjnahIEoKHK8o2vegaZ
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