AWARENESS, EFFECT AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TO CLIMATE VARIABILITY BY CASSAVA FARMERS IN CROSS RIVER STATE

Abstract

This study was carried out in Cross River State to ascertain the awareness, effect and adaptation strategies adopted by cassava farmers. Specifically, the study accessed farmers awareness of climate change, ascertained the effects of climate change and adaptation strategies adopted in cassava production and determined the constraints to climate change adaptation in cassava production. The population of the study consisted of registered cassava farmers in the study areas. Sample size of 234 was determined using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data obtained through the use of questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results showed that 90.1% of the farmers were aware of climate change and increased disease incidence with mean of 3.4 and ranked 1st as an effect of climate change on cassava production and farmers mostly practiced regular weeding (98.7%) as adaptation strategy. Also, lack of farm credit with mean of 3.4 and ranked 1st as a constraint to adaptation. The study therefore, recommended that low interest loan be made available to cassava farmers to enable them buy farm inputs.