On- and non-farm adaptation in Senegal: understanding differentiation and drivers of farmer strategies

Abstract

ABSTRACT Rainfed farmers in Sudano-Sahelian West Africa have long adapted to variable growing conditions. Today, in response to intersecting pressures from climate change, soil fertility loss, and socioeconomic change associated with globalization, these farmers are working to build more resilient livelihood systems. This study examines farmers' perceptions of environmental change and socioeconomic transition in Senegal and the drivers and constraints on their adaptive responses, with particular attention to the interplay of on- and non-farm livelihood strategies amid concerns about changing weather. Semi-structured interviews with 47 farmers provide insight into individual lived experiences while surveys and multinomial regression drawing data from approximately 500 farmers point to broader patterns in perceptions and adaptive strategies. The findings indicate that most Senegalese farmers perceive substantial environmental change that is amplifying ongoing processes of agrarian change, increasing reliance on non-farm livelihoods and youth migration in particular. While the most resource-constrained farmers rely primarily on prayer—likely an expression of limited alternative strategies—those most concerned about weather changes turn to diversified livelihood strategies. This study illustrates an evolving relationship between farmers and non-farm work amid environmental and socioeconomic change in rural Africa, with implications for development initiatives aimed at supporting farmer adaptation to climate change.