Farmers' perceptions of climate change and variability and determinants of adaptation strategies and coping mechanism in Ethiopia

Abstract

Climate change and variability are significantly affecting the Ethiopian agricultural sector, which serves as the backbone of the country's economy. The implementation of adaptation strategies and coping mechanisms is influenced by various factors, which are site-specific. Thus, this study aimed to explore farmers' perceptions of climate change and variability and the determinants of adaptation strategies and coping mechanisms in Ethiopia. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 133 farming households. The results revealed that farmers' perceptions of local indicators, such as temperature changes and rainfall patterns, underscore the diverse and impactful nature of climate variations on their experiences. The multivariate probit model output showed that the determinants of farmers' responses to climate variability, such as age, family size, educational status, sources of income, types of farming, farming experience, farm size, access to extension services, and availability of seasonal information, were significantly affected (p < 0.01). The impact of education, family size, farming experience, and income sources varies across various facets of agricultural practices, emphasizing the nuanced dynamics of coping mechanisms. Policymakers and agricultural practitioners seeking to develop effective strategies need to consider diverse needs and challenges faced by farmers in adapting to climate variability. Promoting education and improving access to extension services are critical components of successful adaptation strategies and coping mechanisms.