ZOOMING TO TRAIN FARMERS

Bonnie Schumann, Nama Karoo Coordinator, EWT Drylands Conservation Programme
[email protected]

Critical work continues with the help of technology as our Drylands Conservation Programme recently held four online training webinars as part of their GEF 5 Sustainable Land Management Karoo Forever Project.

This initiative aims to share knowledge with farmers around the Karoo, without requiring them to travel. This approach not only reduces carbon footprint from travel, but at this critical time in our country, allows participants and staff to stay safe and maintain social distancing, as farmers can join in the discussions from the comfort of their homes.

Experts on different topics share information during this interactive process. The first series focused on intensive sheep farming, where the result is a reduction of pressure on the natural resources. The webinars are recorded and uploaded on the project website (http://karooforever.org.za/) so that participants can access the content again. Visitors to the website can also view the series.

This initiative is funded by the Global Environment Facility through the Department of Environmental Affairs and the United Nations Development Programme.