As a master’s student at China Agricultural University, I have had the privilege of observing the remarkable work being done at the Shiyanghe Experimental Station and witnessing firsthand the techniques and strategies that have turned a harsh desert environment into a productive agricultural oasis.
My journey to the Shiyanghe River Basin in Gansu Province was an eye-opening experience that illuminated the transformative power of agricultural innovation and water conservation in arid regions.
I couldn’t help but draw parallels between the arid conditions of Shiyanghe and the northern regions of my homeland, Ghana. The insights gained here could be valuable in revitalizing northern Ghana’s agriculture and water management systems.
Upon arriving at the Shiyanghe Experimental Station, I was struck by the stark contrast between the lush fields within the station and the arid landscape surrounding it. Located in Liangzhou District, Wuwei City, an area known for its extreme climatic conditions, with annual precipitation of only 164 mm, the station stands as a beacon of innovation and resilience.
Exploring best use of water-saving technologies like precision drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and soil moisture monitoring, the station has transformed desert into productive agricultural land. Observing these techniques firsthand, I saw how every drop of water was utilized efficiently, ensuring sustainability in an arid environment.
Another highlight of my visit was observing the research being conducted on crop resilience to drought stress and high-density planting. Shiyanghe employs advanced technologies in monitoring crop health and photosynthesis rates under drought conditions. This research is vital for identifying drought-resistant crop varieties and optimizing agricultural practices in extreme climates.
Investing in research on drought-resistant crops and advanced monitoring technologies enhance agricultural resilience. Policies supporting such research and facilitating technology transfer to local farmers empower them to better withstand drought conditions, ultimately improving productivity.
My field observations extended to nearby Gulang County in Wuwei, where innovative water conservation strategies are making significant impact. The development of a water conservation lake that diverts water from the Yellow River for storage and subsequent distribution is particularly noteworthy. This lake supports agricultural needs, addresses domestic and industrial water demands, and is complemented by an afforestation project aimed at reclaiming desert land and fostering ecological balance.
In Minqin, another county in Wuwei, I witnessed the remarkable progress made in combating desertification and water scarcity through innovative strategies and community involvement. Central to these efforts is the Hongyashan Reservoir, which has significantly increased its capacity from 100 million to 148 million cubic meters over the past few years, with water sourced from mountain snow melt and rainfall and through strategic diversions from the Yellow River. The reservoir supports agriculture, maintains the ecological balance, and acts as a barrier against the convergence of the Badain Jaran and Tengger deserts. Additionally, afforestation initiatives have dramatically improved the region’s environmental conditions.
One of the most inspiring aspects of Minqin’s efforts is the robust community engagement. Family-owned tree planting initiatives and women’s groups have played a critical role in afforestation. These grassroots efforts have been essential in reversing desertification trends and restoring ecological health. Recent afforestation initiatives have dramatically improved the region’s environmental conditions, with forest cover rising from 3 percent in the 1950s to 18.2 percent.
The success of Minqin’s Hongyashan Reservoir highlights the benefits of investing in infrastructure to manage water resources. Ghana could see similar benefits from the Pwalugu Multipurpose Dam, which, once completed, will regulate water flow, provide irrigation, and enhance agricultural productivity, mitigating the impacts of climate variations in Ghana.
The lessons I learned from Shiyanghe, Gulang and Minqin are also applicable in Ghana. Embracing these strategies has the potential to assist Ghana in overcoming its challenges and achieving long-term economic growth and improved livelihoods for its communities. –The Daily Mail-Beijing Review news exchange item
