Climate change likely to impact bean production

FARMERS growing common beans in Tanzania are likely to incur losses resulting from temperature rise and changing weather patterns in the next 30 years, according to a climate study. The study, conducted in the context of the Climate Resilient Agribusiness for Tomorrow (CRAFT) project, shows that there is an increase in the number of consecutive dry days (CDD) which could lead to high incidences of drought. This would have a significant impact on rain-fed agriculture, including bean production. Beans production areas in the southern parts of the country such as Mbeya, Iringa, western parts of Ruvuma, and the southern regions of Morogoro are likely to be worst affected by the frequent and severe drought expected in the region. A relatively better condition for beans production is expected in the northern parts of the country particularly Manyara and Tanga districts. “During both the short and long rainy season, the model projection for mid-century (2050) shows a temperature rise of ...