Factors Influencing Perception of Climate Variability and Change among Smallholder Farmers in Swaziland
Journal Title: Indian Journal of Nutrition - Year 2016, Vol 3, Issue 2
Abstract
Climate change is a reality and has been confirmed by global scientific consensus to affect the productivity of agricultural ecosystems. Farmers perceive climate change differently and their perception of climate variables is key for rain-fed agriculture since farmers cope with climate change based on their perceptions of changing climate patterns. This study contributes to the emerging climate change, food security debate by investigating the factors affecting perception of climate variables and associated impact on local agriculture among smallholder farmers in Swaziland. The study drew empirical data from a household survey of 270 maize farming households in the Middleveld region of the kingdom of Swaziland. Using this data, the study analysis smallholders’ perception of climate change and its associated impacts on local agriculture, crop yield and resulting food (in) security in Swaziland. Results suggest that most farmers perceived climatic changes and its negative impact on agriculture and considered climate change as a salient risk to their future livelihoods and food security. Different levels of perception were expressed in terms of climate change and the impact on traditional rain-fed agriculture. Age, education level, gender and access to climate information and extension services were found to significantly affected perception levels. Increased access to agricultural support services through extension officers is recommended along with improvement in accurate weather focusing and information dissemination to rural farmers. It is also recommended that for any policy directed at assisting farmers to perceive correctly or accurately climate variables, and rainfall in particular there is need to take on board the many years of farming experience of older farmers since they possess certain skills and indigenous knowledge that help them perceive accurately compared to their counterparts (younger farmers). Also, there is need to enhance farmers’ education level, particularly to provide training for farmers on important skills that can enhance their accuracy of perception so that they can make necessary input investments and consequently get better yield hence improve their food security.
Authors and Affiliations
Sipho Felix Mamba
Keywords
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