Challenges of and Responses to Climate Variability: A Case Study of Peri-urban Female Farmers in Kenya

Abstract

Although the impact of climate change on a regional scale has been much discussed, the perception of change and the responses this induces at the level of resource-poor smallholder farmers has been less studied, particularly those of female farmers. This study examined challenges faced by a group of Kabuor-Upendo female farmers and the appropriateness of their responses in the context to climate change in a Peri-urban town of Kisumu County in Kenya. Data was collected using semi-structured questionnaires in Kisumu East Sub-County. According to respondents, climate variability is the dominant factor in their set of perceived challenges. These include inadequate and unreliable rainfall and recurrent drought and flood. Their coping strategies as found in this study include crop diversification, planting of drought tolerant crops and irrigation. These are consistent with government policy on climate smart agriculture practices. Therefore, these proactive actions by smallholder female farmers are also areas identified for intervention at both national and local government level. In view of this, it can be concluded that female farmers’ challenges and responses will be appropriate entry points for policy initiatives in the context of climate variability.