In alignment with its core value of “environmental awareness,” Zamzam University of Science and Technology (ZUST) is dedicated to addressing climate change challenges through impactful collaborations with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). By working closely with NGOs like SOS Somalia, Action Against Hunger, and IHH Humanitarian Relief, ZUST is pioneering innovative solutions to support climate adaptation in agriculture. These partnerships focus on sustainable practices, climate-resilient agriculture, and long-term food security for vulnerable communities, especially those in crisis-affected regions.
Climate Adaptation through Hydroponic Animal Feed Production
One of ZUST’s key climate adaptation projects, in collaboration with SOS Somalia and Action Against Hunger, focuses on hydroponic animal feed production. Hydroponics, a method of growing plants without soil, offers an efficient and sustainable solution to produce animal feed in areas facing water scarcity and limited arable land. This technology allows farmers to grow nutritious feed year-round, regardless of weather conditions, helping them maintain livestock health and productivity despite climate challenges. Through training programs and demonstrations, ZUST and its partners educate local farmers on the benefits of hydroponic systems, providing them with the skills and resources needed to implement these systems independently. This project contributes to climate adaptation by offering a stable and sustainable source of animal feed, which helps farmers cope with the effects of drought and erratic weather patterns.
Development of Climate-Resilient Seeds for Stable Food Production
In collaboration with the Zamzam Foundation and IHH Humanitarian Relief, ZUST is working on developing climate-resilient maize and wheat seeds. These seeds are specifically designed to withstand the region’s harsh climate conditions, including high temperatures, drought, and soil salinity. By enhancing seed resilience, ZUST aims to empower farmers to produce stable food supplies even in adverse conditions, improving food security in communities that are highly susceptible to climate-induced crop failures. This initiative includes hands-on workshops and field trials, where farmers can learn best practices for cultivating these resilient crops. ZUST’s research teams work alongside NGO partners to continuously improve seed varieties and adapt them to the specific needs of local communities. This project not only strengthens climate resilience but also supports the long-term goal of reducing dependency on food imports, thereby fostering self-sufficiency in Somalia’s agricultural sector.
Supporting Farmers with Sustainable Practices and Community Resilience
Supported by SOS Children’s Villages, ZUST and its partners focus on empowering farmers with sustainable agricultural practices that enhance resilience to climate change. This project involves educating farmers on crop rotation, soil conservation, water management, and organic farming methods that protect the environment while boosting productivity. By adopting these sustainable practices, farmers are better prepared to mitigate the effects of climate change, maintain soil health, and ensure consistent crop yields. Additionally, this project helps foster community resilience, enabling farmers to adapt to environmental changes and secure their livelihoods. By promoting sustainable agriculture, ZUST and its NGO partners are building a foundation for food security that supports communities in the long term, even amid the uncertainties brought on by climate change.
A Vision for Innovation and Food Security in Crisis-Hit Areas
ZUST’s collaboration with NGOs on climate adaptation demonstrates the university’s commitment to using innovation to tackle food insecurity in crisis-affected areas. By integrating modern agricultural techniques such as hydroponics and developing climate-resilient crops, ZUST and its partners are setting a path toward sustainable solutions for communities facing climate challenges. These projects represent the future of climate adaptation, combining science, community engagement, and NGO partnerships to address food insecurity. Through these efforts, Zamzam University remains a leader in environmental responsibility and climate action, working to ensure that vulnerable communities are equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive despite climate adversities.
