Exploring Climate Challenges in Taro Farming faced by Smallholder Farmers in the Markham Valley
- growpng
- 3 days ago
- 1 min read
Grow PNG facilitated a visit on March 19, 2025, by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) to Wampua Village, Mutzing Station, Markham Valley, providing an opportunity for researchers to engage with smallholder farmers and better understand the impact of climate change on taro production.
The engagement focused on understanding planting regimes—such as timing, input use, and weather-related disruptions—while also examining the relationship between climate and crop production, particularly for taro and sweet potato.
One significant insight from the visit was that in Markham Valley, crop yields generally increase with high rainfall due to the region’s black, loamy soils, which reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. However, excessive rainfall can lead to waterlogging, creating an environment conducive to pests and diseases, which in turn reduces yields. Farmers also reported that prolonged droughts and unpredictable rainfall patterns are major concerns, exacerbating soil degradation and threatening food security.
During discussions, the farmers highlighted the importance of knowledge sharing initiatives to equip them with the skills needed to navigate shifting climate conditions.
Insights gathered from this engagement will contribute to IFPRI’s ongoing research on food security and climate adaptation strategies, ensuring that future interventions are practical, farmer driven, and tailored to the specific needs of smallholder farmers in the communities. Grow PNG will continue its efforts to support smallholder farmers through capacity-building programs and partnerships with research institutions.
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