The native people of the high Andean plateau (altiplano) have always had to contend with an inhospitable environment. High winds, sparse ground cover, frozen water and extreme temperature variations are the norm. As a result of climate change, these temperature variations have become even more pronounced, and water shortages have been exacerbated.

The IFAD-supported Market Strengthening and Livelihood Diversification in the Southern Highlands (Sierra Sur) Project is working directly with more than 21,000 families over an area of almost 78,000 km² to help them become more resilient to the impact of climate change and to improve their management of natural resources.

Water from rain and melting ice is being trapped in pits so it can be used for irrigation. Project participants are diversifying their crops and are now cultivating maize, beans, cereals, potatoes and oregano in terraces, separated by stone walls, on the mountain slopes. The stone walls break the wind and trap soil and water to prevent run-off. The stones also act as heat reservoirs, soaking up warmth from the sun during the day and releasing it slowly at night, which helps control freezing.

Project participants are also planting trees to restore the area’s green cover. The trees serve as wind breaks and help regulate temperature. They are a source of fuelwood and their roots stabilize the soil on the slopes.

As a result of the project, the local population is better fed and livestock is thriving.

Source: IFAD