Knowledge and perceptions of climate change among smallholder farmers in Ghana and the role of local ecological knowledge in climate change adaptation

Abstract

Climate plays a crucial role in the agriculture sector in ensuring food security and stable employment for the majority that depend on it for their livelihood. This study assessed smallholder farmers perceptions and adaptations to climate change and the role of local ecological knowledge in adaptation. A review of existing literature together with data from the 2017 Afrobarometer survey was used to answer the research questions. The focus of the study was on Ghana but a review of Nigeria was done in order to draw comparisons of the economic productivity and agricultural characteristics in the sector. Some farmers had heard about the term climate change while others had not; however, some of the farmers who had heard about the term did not fully understand it. Climate change was seen as evident in high temperatures, excessive rainfall, and a prolonged dry season. Despite the challenges with climate change, some farmers perceived it had limited effects. Perceptions were influenced by age, gender, education and length of stay in the farming community. Moreover, perceptions of climate change influenced the decision to adapt. The majority of adaptation measures used were borne out of local ecological knowledge, which has proven successful over time. The results suggest making government educational programs and adaptation techniques more accessible to farmers, especially those in both remote and urban` areas.