The Perspectives of Farmers on the Impact of Climate Change on Smallholder Crop Farming in Kibaale, Kagadi, And Kakumiro Districts, Uganda

Abstract

This study examined perceptions of smallholder farmers on adverse effects of climate change and how they have impacted farming activities, so as to contribute to efforts of making smallholder farming less risk prone in Uganda. Based on post-positivism, the study applied a mixed study approach through a cross-sectional design to collect quantitative data from 384 smallholder crop farmers qualitative data from 3(n=21) farmers’ groups in Kibaale, Kagadi, and Kakumiro Districts, Uganda. Data was collected by means of a structured questionnaire and a focus group interview guide, and was analysed using descriptive statistics, a Chi-squire test and Narrative analysis. It was found that farmers experienced; irregular rain fall, recurrent long dry spells, high temperatures, floods and hailstorms that altered rainfall patterns and reduced soil fertility. This confused planting, weeding and harvesting times, leading to low yields. This made it difficult for farmers to sustain farming activities, making smallholder crop farming, unpredictable, risky and unviable enterprise. Farmers also experienced insufficient food supplies and financial instability, which increased food insecurity and predisposed them to difficult livelihoods. Yet, smallholder crop farmers were helpless, continued being dependent on natural resources and rain-fed farming, increasing their vulnerability. Central government should mainstream farmer -adaptation services to climate change in all community development programs so as to increase community awareness and support. It should also empower Local Governments to coordinate the implementation of farmer adaptation to climate change activities. There is need to explore the role of indigenous knowledge and practices in predisposing and empowering farmers to understand and effectively manage adverse climate change conditions.