EFFECT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND VARIABILITY OF SMALLHOLDER FARMERS’ LIVELIHOODS IN THE FOREST-SAVANNAH TRANSITIONAL ZONE OF GHANA A GENDER PERSPECTIVE

ABSTRACT 

Globally, climate change continues to pose a serious threat to ecosystems, food security, water resources, health and economic stability. While these climate change induced effects are well documented, albeit in varying spatial contexts, much of the debate has not gravitated towards evidence of gender differentials in the impact of climate change in recent times, especially among smallholder farmers. Against this backdrop, this study explored gender perspectives on climate change and variability effect on the livelihoods of smallholder farmers’ in the forest-savanna transitional zone of Ghana. Specifically, it assessed the perception of men and women smallholder farmers regarding climate change and variability; the differential effects of climate change on their livelihood activities; the adaptive strategies employed by them to improve their production and means of livelihood; and the various institutional arrangements available to support male and female smallholder farmers. The study relied on both quantitative and qualitative data to achieve its objectives. A simple random sampling technique was used in sampling 606 respondents from KAPND and KpMu for the household questionnaire survey whereas focus group discussions and indepth interviews were conducted among respondents and various institutional heads. The results indicate that majority of respondents were aware of climate change and variability and thus related climate change to changes in rainfall pattern and increase in temperature. Males were more likely to be aware of climate change and variability than females. Respondents reported reduction in crop yields, outbreak of pest and diseases and heat stress as some physical effects. Whereas engaging in off farm activities, migration, changes in agronomic practices and relying on remittances are reported reactive adaptive measures adopted by respondents, use of weedicides and fertilizers, change in planting time and variety of seeds, mixed cropping and tree planting are planned adaptive measures adopted by farmers. However, such adaptive measures are highly contingent on location of farms, financial capabilities and gender. Moreover, the adaptive capacity of farmers in terms of access to credit and social capital were very low. Even though the various government agencies provide some support for farmers, factors such as lack of knowledge of the services, inadequate information about services, unequal access to extension services, traditional/cultural barriers, and women’s excessive workload were the major causes of unequal access to institutional support. The study establishes that while there may be some subtle spatial and gender differences in modes of adaptive measures often adopted in the event of climate change and variability impact, individuals’ ability to adapt are largely contingent on their knowledge and awareness, access to resources and information. Consequently, the study recommends gender-sensitive climate change policies and interventions that focus on individual farmers, farmer groups, and communities’ specific needs.