Private Sector & Development magazine articles

Farmers in Southern Africa are grappling with the hazards of climate change and reduced rainfall. Seed Co Group – a company based in Zimbabwe – is attempting to provide them with solutions by developing hardier seeds that can thrive in these changed conditions. Stepping up R&D investment and effort is a crucial part of the process and the results in terms of resilience can deliver multiple benefits to farmers.

Adaptation is by definition the response to a shock – in this case a climate shock. But if this issue is not identified and taken into account in the business practices and procedures of private players, it is unlikely that an indicator devoted to climate adaptation will come about by chance. Yet this tool is becoming essential. It is increasingly used by private finance to measure climate adaptation, in particular at the request of donors.

The climate crisis has become increasingly evident in the last five years. Its alarming effects are also becoming more apparent. Thus, it has become clear that the actions taken to adapt to global climate change have not been sufficient. With the world’s populations facing climate-related hazards, much more has to be done to address the issue and accelerate action. Yet, mobilizing the actors and finance will necessitate investment.