Farmers’ Perception on and Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change: The case of Begi District, West Ethiopia

Abstract

The study was conducted in West Wollega zone, to understand how farmers perceive climate change and adaptation measures. It involved four villages, with a deliberate sampling method. Key informants, two farmers' group discussions, and 127 sample household respondents were included. Qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data collection and analysis, with ENMA-gridded temperature data from 1983 to 2018 being used. The district experiences a significant increase in annual temperature, with mean temperatures rising at 0.040°C/year, maximum temperatures at 0.054°C/year, and lowest temperatures at 0.026°C/year. The district's rainfall pattern shows a decline of 16.35mm. Climate change impacts include floods, pests, and illnesses, with drought frequency occasionally increasing. Farmers use coping techniques like terracing, afforestation, crop diversification, income diversification, seasonal migration, and livestock management for adaptation. The study found that farmers' opinions on climate change and adaptation are influenced by factors such as age, education, access to extension services, and farming experience. Lowland regions are more aware of climate change due to their warmer climate. Most respondents saw long-term temperature variability and increasing rainfall patterns. Farmers are implementing coping strategies and modifications. The study recommends communities to be aware of new technology through credit services, infrastructure development, training, and climatic information.