It is common to hear and read about climate change in the literature, media, and interpersonal discussions among farmers and environmental groups. Farmers' understanding of climate change differs amid these discussions because of individual experiences and perceptions after many years of farming. Rainfall is declining, and the temperature is rising are the common perceptions farmers hold on climate change which they see as adversely affecting agriculture. In moments of such adversity, farmers think about what adaptation measures to implement. The objectives of this study were to find out what farmers perceive as climate change, what they consider as the causes of the change, and how they adapt to climate change. Methods used for collecting data were administering questionnaires to farmers in six towns in the Yendi Municipality, obtaining information through focused group discussions, and talking to agricultural extension officers. Data analysis was done using Excel software. The results show farmers are aware that the climate is changing. The changes are perceived as a result of bad farming practices, including cutting down trees, the influence of supernatural forces in preventing rainfall, and changes in wind direction which deprive communities of rainfall. Adaptation measures to cope with climate change mentioned by the farmers include crop diversification to plant drought-resistant crops and diversify from high grass consuming ruminants to low grass consuming ones. The paper concludes that the government should assist farmers to adapt fully to climate change, otherwise, food security will be hampered.
Adanu, SK; Abole, T; Gbedemah, SF
Farmer's perceptions on climate change and adaptation strategies in Yendi Municipality, Ghana
Future Of Food-Journal On Food Agriculture And Society