A tractor ploughs an agricultural field in Khartoum's district of Jureif Gharb, Sudan, Nov. 11, 2019. - Ashraf Shazly/AFP via Getty Images
 

RCMRD is set to revolutionize soil erosion assessment, paving the way for climate-resilient agriculture in Sudan. This ambitious endeavor showcases the potent synergy of cooperation, cutting-edge technology, and an unwavering dedication to safeguarding our environment.

In partnership with the Sudanese Natural Resources General Directorate (NRGD) of the Ministry of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and with crucial support from the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN) via the Adaptation Fund Climate Innovation Accelerator, RCMRD is taking decisive strides in assessing soil erosion. Our tool of choice, state-of-the-art atomic absorption spectroscopy, promises to fortify climate-resilient agriculture and bolster food security throughout Sudan.

To achieve our vision, RCMRD is charting an innovative course, harnessing advanced technology like Earth Observation (EO) systems, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), and precise field-based soil measurements. These cutting-edge instruments will grant us unparalleled insights into soil dynamics, ultimately enabling us to craft strategies that mitigate the impact of climate change on Sudan's agriculture.

Our methodology stands upon a robust foundation, built upon several key components. Firstly, we embark on soil-based sampling and micronutrient analysis, meticulously collecting soil samples from diverse locations within our study area. These samples undergo comprehensive analysis through Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry, allowing us to gauge micronutrient levels and acquire vital insights into soil fertility.

Main Irrigation Channel for Food Security Project at Al Damar

Moreover, we employ satellite technology and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for validation purposes. These tools, comprising Earth Observation techniques and UAVs, furnish us with timely, high-resolution data. By harmonizing this wealth of information, we construct precise soil erosion susceptibility models that steer our efforts in monitoring soil health and efficiently managing erosion risk.

Furthermore, our methodology seamlessly incorporates the RUSLE-GEE framework, an approach that leverages various data sources, including remote sensing data and soil information. This framework is custom-built to estimate the annual soil loss attributed to water erosion. Operating within a cloud-based environment, it expedites data analysis, facilitating the development of actionable insights aimed at safeguarding Sudan's soil.

Our journey is a multifaceted one, spanning from stakeholder engagement and consultations to validation surveys using high-resolution drone imagery. We are committed to fostering capacity-building among policy makers, stakeholders, and technical staff at both state and national levels to enable effective adaptation. Additionally, we are developing criteria and indicators for monitoring soil health and providing essential guidance for local soil erosion modeling.

In addition to the project's technical aspects, we are dedicated to disseminating our findings and knowledge with the world. Our outreach encompasses technical analytical reports that meticulously detail our methods and findings, digital mapping that vividly illustrates soil vulnerability to climate change impacts, and comprehensive guidance for sustainable soil management and land reclamation. We are launching an informative website, offering access to our invaluable soil analysis dataset, and producing policy briefs that highlight criteria and indicators, along with guidance for local soil erosion modeling.

A Soil Scientist from the Dryland Centre of Agriculture Research Cooperation - explaining effects of Wind and Water Erosion to the Soil.

The RCMRD team is steadfast in its determination to catalyze positive change within Sudan's agricultural landscape. By harnessing technology, fostering collaboration, and placing sustainability at the core of our efforts, we aim to empower farmers, strengthen food security, and contribute to a more resilient future.