When crop producers face dynamic climate risks in Ethiopia: exploring determinants behind choices of adaptation strategies

Abstract

Farmers in Ethiopia frequently adopt different combinations of local adaptation strategies to fight against climate change and other economic stresses. This study contributes to the existing research by identifying determinants behind the choice of adaptation strategies in 2 districts of Ethiopia. Data on demographics, socio-economics, biophysical characteristics as well as adaptation strategies were collected through in-depth household surveys using structured and semi-structured questionnaires. A multistage sampling technique was employed to select 340 households for the interviews. Data were analysed through the application of a multinomial logistic regression model. The results show that male-headed households who recognize climate change as a result of having access to weather information delivered by extension agents, are more likely to choose improved crop varieties compared to female-headed households. Such characteristics of farmers also significantly influence the choice of using crop diversification strategies, including mixed use of maize with legumes. Farmers who have large landholdings are less likely to diversify crop production and income strategies compared to farmers with smaller landholdings. The results suggest that farmers can significantly contribute to local-based adaptation policy formulation and support resilience building. However, more socio-economic and institutional support for farmers in terms of research, innovation and awareness creation should be provided.