Climate-smart cropping systems for resilient food production in Sub-Saharan Africa in the face of changing climate: a review

As the global population is projected to reach 9.6 billion by 2050, the urgency for effective water management strategies that can support both ecosystems and food production is paramount. This article utilizes a systematic review to underscore the importance of water-efficient cropping systems in aiding small-scale farmers in navigating the intricate challenges of climate change. Sub-Saharan Africa is especially susceptible to climate change, with forecasts predicting a significant rise in average daily temperatures (1.5−2.5 °C) and increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns by the end of the century. These factors threaten food security and the livelihoods of millions of farmers who are heavily dependent on rain-fed agriculture. Water-efficient cropping systems present a viable solution to these issues. Key strategies identified include crop diversification, the use of appropriate crop varieties, conservation (minimum/zero) tillage, traditional water harvesting techniques (Zai and Half-moon pits), and agroforestry. Crop diversification and the utilization of adapted crop varieties empower farmers to overcome the constraints of regions with brief rainy seasons and growing periods. These tactics bolster resilience to drought and boost overall crop performance. Conservation tillage practices aid in preserving soil health while retaining crucial soil moisture. Indigenous water harvesting techniques keep soil water and nutrients near crop roots, markedly enhancing crop production in difficult environments. Agroforestry, the practice of integrating trees into farming landscapes, provides numerous advantages, including shading, erosion prevention, and improved moisture conservation. These approaches contribute to both sustainable crop production and environmental sustainability, addressing Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of 1 (no poverty), 2 (zero hunger), and 13 (climate action).