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Author
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Gwari, Jabulani
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Title
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The nexus between climate change risk perceptions and the adoption of adaptive measures among smallholder farmers in Caluquembe Municipality, Angola.
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Abstract
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The phenomenon of climate change poses considerable challenges on a global scale, particularly for susceptible populations such as smallholder farmers. Evaluating these communities' comprehension of climate change and their corresponding reactions, while taking local knowledge into account, is of paramount importance. This inquiry investigates the correlation between the understanding of climate change risks among smallholder farmers and their adaptive practices in the Caluquembe Municipality of Angola. The study's primary objectives include exploring risk perceptions, adaptive approaches, and the correlation between perceived risks and the adoption of adaptation methods. Existing literature points to a scarcity of studies examining the link between climate risk perception and adaptation techniques in the context of smallholder farming in Angola. To bridge this knowledge gap, a pragmatic research perspective was adopted, synthesizing multiple research methodologies and data sources for a holistic understanding. A mixed-methods design incorporated both qualitative and quantitative methods. Multi-stage sampling, encompassing stratified and systematic random sampling techniques, was employed for data collection. Quantitative data was obtained from 80 household surveys, while qualitative data involved three focus groups and 10 key informant interviews, complemented by document reviews and field observations. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative information was examined through content analysis. The results revealed a high level of climate change awareness among farmers, with 73.75% being "Very aware" and 13.75% "Extremely aware." Most perceived climate change as a substantial threat due to elevated temperatures and reduced precipitation. Respondents reported significant impacts on income, crop yields, water quality, and availability. Common adaptive techniques included adjusting planting schedules and implementing water conservation practices. A positive correlation was identified between climate change risk awareness and the adoption of adaptation measures. Cross-tabulation analysis demonstrated a robust connection between climate change awareness and the implementation of adaptive strategies. Farmers with higher climate change risk awareness displayed a greater propensity to adopt a diverse array of adaptation techniques. On the other hand, those with lower awareness levels exhibited minimal adoption of these practices. However, the implementation of effective adaptation measures was hindered by various factors, including inadequate technological resources, restricted access to weather information, and insufficient human resources. In view of these outcomes, the research advocates for the government to assume an active part in devising enduring strategies to tackle the impacts of climate change on agriculture. This involves equipping farmers with state-of-the- art irrigation methods, and consistently updating them on sustainable farming techniques to ensure resilience against climate change effects.
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Date
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June 2024
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Climate change, Smallholder farmers, Perception, Adaptation measures, Risk
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Supervisor
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Dr. Manyangadze
