Abstract
This study assessed the small scale farmers’ perception of institutions and information channels on climate change and adaptation in Embu County, Kenya. A survey was conducted on 411 households and 25 key informants on their perception of institutions and information channels towards climate change and adaptation where stratified random and purposive sampling was done respectively. The data were subjected to descriptive statistics, chi-square, linear regression, and Likert scale analysis. The results showed that formal institutions are more likely to influence small scale farmers’ ability to perceive climate variability risks and opt for adaptation mechanisms. Out of twelve information channels identified by the farmers, only five are more likely to influence climate variability adaptation mechanisms. While life-experience was the only channel significant to perception on climate variability impacts on agriculture. On the access and utilization of climate-related information, small-scale farmers are in a position to implement although many barriers were cited. The results indicate the need for the farmers, agricultural, and climate-related institutions to work closely to enable co-learning to raise awareness and to help disseminate agricultural-related information. Key words: Institutions, information channels, climate change, adaptation, perception.
Highlights
Climate change adversely impacts all aspects of agriculture such as supply, production, access to food, and prices which results in global food insecurity (Tai et al, 2014)
Out of the 411 households interviewed 59.1% were females with 67.6% of the total interviewees between the ages of 18 to 50 years. This is a positive sign in the study area because youths are energetic, knowledgeable, have the access to the latest information and technology on climate change adaptation
The study reviews that youths are directly involved in farming activity are more knowledgeable and have a better perception of climate change adaptation
Summary
Climate change adversely impacts all aspects of agriculture such as supply, production, access to food, and prices which results in global food insecurity (Tai et al, 2014). Kenyan economy relies on the agriculture sector where 24% directly and 27% indirectly is channeled into the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and a means of livelihood for the majority of its citizens (Mutune, 2017). This sector is susceptible to a rise in temperature and unreliable amounts of rainfall which leads to low and declined crop productivity (KabuboMariara, 2015). It is paramount for farmers to adapt to the changing climatic conditions to reduce the adverse impacts on productivity (Herrero et al, 2010).
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