Smallholder Farmers’ Perception, Level of Awareness, And Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change in Tharaka South Sub-County, Kenya

Climate change and variability bring negative impacts to agricultural productivity with direct consequences for poor rural communities in Kenya. The aim of this study was to assess the level of awareness, perception, and adaptation strategies to climate change amongst smallholder farmers in Tharaka South Sub-County. The research adopted a mixed-method approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Quantitative data was obtained from smallholder farmers through a structured questionnaire, while qualitative data were obtained through key informant interviews. A total of 100 households in three wards, namely: Chiakariga, Marimanti, and Nkondi in Tharaka South Sub-County, and 20 key informants in the three wards were targeted. The results showed that 97.9% were aware and had a climate change understanding, while only 2.1% had no understanding. The study findings indicate that climate change, which is indicated by changes in rainfall patterns and high temperatures, affects 83% of the farmers, who face challenges such as low crop yields 81.9%, crop failure 83%, increased pests and diseases 21.3%, drying up of water sources, and soil erosion 2.1%. The adaptation strategies included planting drought-resistant crops, diversifying crops 72.3%, water conservation methods such as rainwater harvesting 10.6%, use of organic or improved fertilisers 6.4%, and early and timely planting 6.4%. The adaptation strategies have, however, not been so effective due to the challenges faced in the area. There is a need for the government and NGOs to come up with various programs to help farmers adapt better to a sustainable future. These provisions will provide important insights into the effectiveness of the current adaptation strategies and inform the policy recommendations for enhancing climate resilience among the farmers