Have you ever wondered why certain foods seem to be scarce and probably expensive in the market for a while only to return weeks later, probably cheaper? This phenomenon is due to seasonal food availability, which is influenced by various factors, including climate, soil quality, and farming practices.

In Nigeria, the agricultural calendar follows specific seasonal cycles that dictate when crops are planted, grown, and harvested. For example, yam is typically planted between March and May in southern Nigeria, with harvests occurring from August to November. In the northern regions, planting typically occurs from May to July, with harvests from October to December. Tomatoes, for instance, can be grown year-round but have peak seasons that vary by region.

Understanding these cycles is essential for ensuring food security and meeting the nutritional needs of our growing population. When smallholder farmers (SHFs) align their practices with optimal growing conditions, they can maximize yields and provide a steady supply of fresh, nutritious foods.

Recognizing these factors also helps us appreciate the dynamics of food availability throughout the year. For instance, during harvest season, you might notice yam abundance in local markets, leading to ready availability and price decrease. However, those yams may become scarce once the harvest is over, resulting in higher prices. This explains why yams and tomatoes are currently available and cheaper than a few weeks ago.

This fluctuation in availability is further complicated by climate change, significantly impacting the agricultural landscape. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and extreme weather events are disrupting traditional planting and harvesting schedules, leading to substantial fluctuations in food availability.

Several studies and recent events indicate that Nigeria is not immune to these global changes. For example, months back in Zaria, Kaduna state, the rain was expected to start in late April or May, but it didn’t arrive until late June, and even then, it was inconsistent. This late start resulted in a severe drought that affected the planting of staple crops. This delay also pushed back planting times which can lead to decreased yields, affecting local food supplies. Similarly, flooding in some regions has contributed to crop loss, further exacerbating food shortages. Such events highlight the urgent need for farmers to adapt to a changing climate.

These occurrences underscore the importance of adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices. For instance, while techniques like crop rotation can help maintain soil health, planting drought-resistant crop varieties can bolster yields during dry spells.

In addition, technology also plays a crucial role in improving agricultural outcomes. Precision agriculture leverages data-driven insights to optimize inputs and maximize yields, helping farmers adjust to changing conditions. Data-driven agri-tech systems, like the Agricultural Operating System (AOS) and Fida Farm developed by our team at ThriveAgric, allow farmers to make informed decisions about planting and harvesting based on accurate predictions.

Succinctly put, to combat the challenges posed by climate change, farmers need to adopt these potential solutions:

However, individual efforts from smallholder farmers alone are not sufficient. Policymakers and stakeholders must collaborate to support sustainable agricultural practices and help SHFs scale up production through targeted investments, incentives, and capacity-building initiatives. Investing in climate-resilient infrastructure, such as efficient irrigation systems and adequate storage facilities, is crucial for enhancing productivity.

Additionally, facilitating access to financial resources through microfinance programs and weather-indexed insurance can empower farmers to invest in sustainable practices. Capacity building through training programs on sustainable farming practices can enhance farmers' skills and knowledge. Supporting agricultural research and development is also vital for creating climate-resilient crop varieties and innovative farming practices.

Finally, establishing supportive policy frameworks and incentives, such as tax breaks for adopting sustainable practices, can encourage farmers to transition to climate-smart agriculture. This way, Nigeria can establish a more robust and adaptable food system capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change.

While farmers and policymakers play crucial roles, consumers also have a significant impact on food systems. Our choices can influence what gets planted and how food is produced. By supporting local farmers and buying seasonal produce, we can help stabilize prices and promote sustainable practices.

Here are some ways you can make a difference as a consumer:

Finally, understanding why we see different foods at different times of the year is crucial for everyone—farmers, consumers, and policymakers alike. Seasonal food availability is influenced by a complex interplay of climate, soil, and agricultural practices. As climate change continues to disrupt these cycles, we must advocate for sustainable practices that support resilient food systems.

Let's work together to create a sustainable future for our food systems. Watch out for our Impact Report to learn more about climate change, its effects on agriculture, and how we’re driving sustainable practices for a food-secure Africa.

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