ISSN: 2578-4994
Authors: Tume SJP*, Banseka JY and Akenji MJ
African farming societies have always survived changing environmental shocks. Enhancing indigenous capacity is key to effective participation in the development process in the era of global climate change. Inadequate information flow between farmers and weather scientists has brought ethno-meteorological knowledge to the limelight for climate change adaptation in rural areas. This study assesses indigenous farmers’ responses to climate change on the Bui Plateau. Data sources included field observations and questionnaires (N=597) in the seven agroecological basins of the Bui Plateau. Results showed that farmers make informed decisions on cropping cycles based on the behaviour of plants and animals, consultation of local weather seers, and community leaders and the behaviour of streams. Traditional responses may not adequately address climate change uncertainties, but they can lead to sustainable responses in the longer term. Instead of using indigenous knowledge solely or neglecting it, its integration into climate change policies can lead to cost-effective adaptation. Indigenous knowledge delivers appropriate entry points for climate change adaptation.
Keywords: Adaptation; Culture; Environment; Ethno-Meteorology; Indigenous Knowledge
