Indigenous tillage and water conservation practices to mitigate the adverse effects of climatic change in Northern Ghana

Northern Ghana, situated in the dry savannah zone of Ghana, faces significant susceptibility to climate change, leading to adverse impacts on crop production. This study investigates the utilization of indigenous knowledge to alleviate the detrimental effects of climate change on millet (Pennisetum americanum L.) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) cultivation in the region. Through interviews with 450 randomly selected individual farmers and key informants, including experts and opinion leaders chosen for their expertise in crop production, traditional farming practices, and climate variability, the study explores indigenous flood and drought management methods employed to sustain millet and sorghum cultivation. The findings reveal the utilization of an elaborate indigenous early warning weather system by farmers to forecast land preparation and planting time. Moreover, the majority of farmers utilize indigenous soil and water conservation methods in conjunction with indigenous land preparation and planting techniques to mitigate climate change's adverse effects. These methods encompass earth mounds, ridges, and stone bunds, thrash lines, dynamic kraaling, compost, and manure application. The study advocates for the integration of traditional and formal weather forecasting techniques to effectively mitigate the impacts of climate change. However, achieving this integration necessitates further research to enhance the scientific rigor and replicability of indigenous weather forecasting mechanisms. Key words: Climate variability, climate change, millet, sorghum, traditional weather forecasting, Ghana.