Peasant Farmers’ Adaptation Strategies to Coping with Climate Change in Jibia Northwest Katsina, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of this study is to identify the adaptation strategies developed by local peasant farmers to reduce negative impacts of climate change in Jibia, Northwest Katsina, Nigeria. Primary data were obtained from field survey through questionnaire administration using stratified random sampling technique where 102 respondents from 3 localities of the local government area. Data collected was then collated, summarized, analyzed and presented using simple descriptive statistics methods. Findings revealed that farmers observed elements of climate change in the area. Increased temperature, incessant rainfall and dry spells during rainy season were some indicators to climate change as perceived by the respondents. Various adaptation measures were being employed, among them, planting of drought tolerant crops, increased use of organic manure and planting varieties of crops. It is recommended that governments, in partnership with international development partners, should build the capacities of peasant farmers to strengthen their indigenous technology knowledge abilities in developing and implementing economically viable user-friendly adaptation plans and strategies that would reduce the impacts of climate change on agricultural activities. Successful adaptation techniques adopted elsewhere that have local relevance may also be replicated.