SWISSAID. On the ground. For the cliamt
The problem
The climate crisis is a major concern for people in Switzerland – as shown by the annual “Worry Barometer.” This concern is justified: not only are glaciers disappearing in Switzerland, but extreme weather events are also becoming more frequent. In our partner countries in the Global South, the impacts are already felt more intensely. Droughts, floods, storms: these extreme weather events are worsening already fragile situations in many countries, fueling hunger and poverty. We believe: Switzerland, as a contributor to the problem, must take greater responsibility.
Our solution
At SWISSAID, we are convinced that the major crises of our time can only be solved together. That is why, here in Switzerland, we continuously advocate for our country to finally take responsibility, seek sustainable and fair solutions, and advance climate justice. On the ground in nine partner countries, we provide support in emergency situations. The core of our climate work, however, lies in agroecology: an agroecological system is more independent from external factors and more resilient to extreme events.
Voices from our partner countries
The Seed Guardian
In Tanzania, farmers are rediscovering traditional crop varieties through training sessions. Many of these varieties have long been neglected and are still underestimated today. Amina Mohamed:
“People come to me to get traditional seeds. I used to have to buy them in the shop, but now I know how to reproduce my own seeds and sell them,” says the 40‑year‑old farmer.
The Reforester
Dayana, 23, leads the association “Mi Árbol Sabanero” in Los Palmitos. “I grew up among these trees, but I knew nothing about them. Now I can easily identify their species.” Together with young people, she collects seeds from strong, resilient trees during field trips. Back at school, they sort the good seeds from the bad ones. They then plant the seedlings outdoors, where they water and care for them.
The forest owner
Arati Arjun Madavi, 44, lives with her family in central India. Her land, mostly used to grow rice, was too barren to produce sufficient yields. She was introduced to agroecological methods and now grows not only rice, but also pigeon peas, yam, sesame, okra, and more. It soon paid off: “Year after year, I was able to harvest more – our needs are now fully covered.”
How you can support climat projects
The climate crisis is here – and its impacts are becoming increasingly visible. While in Switzerland we are still mostly experiencing isolated extreme events, like the recent ones in Ticino and Valais, heavy rainfall, floods, and droughts have already become the new normal in the Global South. The result: crop failures and hunger.
With your donation, you support SWISSAID and help people on the ground take action against climate change – and become more resilient to its impacts. All donations go into the Organic Farming Fund, supporting projects for climate protection and climate adaptation.
