Assessing farmers’ perceptions of climate change and adaptation strategies in the Yilo Krobo Municipality of the Eastern Region, Ghana

Limited information exists on farmers’ perceptions of climate change and adaptation strategies from a gender perspective, which impedes the development of climate-smart mango production. Therefore, this study examined farmers’ perceptions of climate change and adaptation strategies. This study used semi-structured questionnaires to capture the perspectives of 116 smallholder mango farmers in the Yilo Krobo Municipality, Ghana. Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher Exact test were used to determine the association between variables of interest. Also, binary logistic regression was used to examine the predictors of climate change awareness. All variables were considered statistically significant at p-value < 0.05. Most farmers (92%) reported that the climate has changed for 20–30 years. Male farmers perceived changes in climatic patterns and associated risks differently than females. More male farmers reported a decrease (85.4%), an increase (52.6%), and the same (65.2%) flooding frequency compared to female farmers, respectively. Both male and female farmers employed various adaptation strategies, including diversification of crops, adjusting planting dates, and changing irrigation practices. Furthermore, farmers’ sex and belonging to a social group were significant predictors of climate change awareness. These findings highlight the need to consider gender and social dynamics when developing climate change awareness interventions.