Effects of climate change on income generating activities of farmers in Osun State, Nigeria

Abstract

The need to examine the changes that the effect of climate change brings about on the income generating activities of farmers necessitated this study. Two local government areas (LGAs) were randomly selected and simple random sampling was used to sample 160 farmers from the 2 LGAs. Chi-square and Pearson products moment correlation (PPMC) were used to analyze the data obtained with the use of structured interview schedule. Results of the study show that there has been a reduction in the production of tree crops by respondents. Also, their exploitation of non-timber forest products such as snails and firewood has reduced. There has however been an increase in the involvement in trading activities by respondents. Also, more of them are now involved in the cultivation of potato. There exists a significant relationship between respondent’ sex, primary occupation, perception of effect of climate change and the level of changes that have occurred in their income generating activities. Reasons adduced by respondents for the changes are perceived deforestation, changes in climatic conditions, soil degradation, land tenure system, inadequate storage and processing facilities, inadequate credit facilities and market price of agricultural activities. Extension should thus concentrate on activities in which more people are now involved as against the traditional ones that they used to cultivate.