Growers Adaptation Strategic Alleviation of Climate Variability in Peri-Urban Agriculture for Food Security in Calabar – Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the adaptive mechanisms employed by farmers in stabilizing crop yield against the wave of climate variability in Calabar, Nigeria. The study adopts a participatory approach based on focused group discussion and questionnaire survey to examine the farmers’ perception of climate variability, adaptation strategies and the influence of the strategies on crop yield. A total of 180 farmers were randomly selected for the study. The results revealed that in response to climate variability 16 strategies were adopted by farmers to stabilize crop yield in line with their indigenous knowledge systems. On indexing and ranking of the strategies based on their priorities, six strategies were predominant which include multiple cropping, use of improved crop varieties, soil conservation, planting cultivars that suit climate, intercropping, changing planting pattern. Multiple cropping with adaptation index of 638 and 94 5 response on climate and land criteria as well as use of improved varieties with adaptation index of 500 and 100% response on mixed criteria of climate and land were outstanding. Crop combination including vegetables, cereals, spices and roots were preferred. Though cassava is highly cultivated, pumpkin has the highest preference due to its market value and demand. The driving factors behind farmers’ choices of adaptation were informed by yields and availability of land. Farmers considered yields and income as the factor in selecting resilience crops. Undoubtedly, 80% of farmers that have adopted these practices no longer experience the persistence of the various environmental problems arising climatic variability. The implication is that indigenous knowledge system on the use of improved varieties and suitable cultivars as well as soil management is essential for improved and bountiful harvest to feed the teeming population amidst climate change. The paper reveals that adaptive measures taken by crop farmers to cushion the effect of climate on crop yield are effective. Hence, it is recommended that indigenous knowledge should be considered alongside other scientific knowledge to combat the impact of climate variability on agriculture while improving crop yield.