Effectiveness of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies: Household-Level Evidence from Ethiopia

Abstract

In response to climate change and variability, farmers use various adaptation strategies. This study examines theeffectiveness of those adaptation strategies in ensuring farmers’ food security in rural villages of Boricha fromsouthern Ethiopia. In addition to data obtained from meteorological stations, cross-sectional data is collectedinterviewing 208 farm households. Analyses show that there is climate change and variability in the area andhousehold adapt using various strategies. Two-Stage Least Square estimation results reveal that rainfall andtemperature variability have negative impact on household’s food security. Moreover, results confirmeffectiveness of climate adaptation strategies namely soil and water conservation, modern varieties and cropdiversification in mitigating climatic risks and ensuring household food security. Results also indicate thateducation, agricultural extension, access to market and credit are key factors enhancing adaptation decisions.Consequently, programs that augment households’ climate awareness and adaptation decision could helpreducing risks pertaining to climate.Keywords: Climate change and variability, adaptation strategies, household food security, Two-Stage LeastSquare, Boricha, Sidama, Ethiopia