CULTIVATING RESILIENCE: SMALLHOLDER FARMERS' ADAPTATION TO CLIMATE EXTREMES IN GHANA'S VOLTA REGION

Section: Articles Published Date: 2023-08-12 Pages: 10-15 Views: 0 Downloads: 0

Authors

  • Makoka Nhamo Department of Crop Science, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra, Ghana
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Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural systems, particularly for smallholder farmers in vulnerable regions. This study investigates the adaptation strategies employed by smallholder farmers in the Volta Region of Ghana to cope with increasing climate extremes. Through a combination of qualitative interviews, field surveys, and data analysis, we explore the cropping practices that farmers have adopted in response to changing climatic conditions. The study highlights the importance of local knowledge, traditional practices, and access to information and resources in cultivating resilience to climate challenges. Findings reveal that farmers have implemented diverse adaptation measures, including altered planting schedules, crop diversification, and water management techniques. Moreover, the study sheds light on the barriers and opportunities for enhancing farmers' adaptive capacity in the face of climate variability. These insights contribute to a better understanding of climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers and offer valuable implications for policymakers and development agencies aiming to support sustainable agricultural practices in the Volta Region and similar contexts.

Keywords

Climate change, adaptation strategies, smallholder farmers