Effect of Livelihood Factors on Climate Change Adaptation of Rural Farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study examined the effect of livelihood factors on climate change adaption of rural famers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Multi-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 farmers from the three agricultural zones of the study area. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents. Statistical tools such as frequency, percentages, regression were used to analyze the data. Findings revealed the adaptation strategies adopted by farmers as majorly grouped include; land/soil, water, crop management and livelihood diversification. Specific livelihood factors that affected the level of climate change adaptation include: natural disaster, extension service, access to credit, income among others. It was recommended that basic amenities should be provided by government to improve the environment of the rural farmers, regular and effective extension service to educate them on suitable climate change adaptation measurers. Also, capital should be provided to the farmers through low interest loan and grants.

Keywords: Livelihood, climate change, mixed farming, land.