Adaptation strategies and determinants shaping smallholder farmers responses to climate change in Konso of Southern Ethiopia

Despite the growing importance of climate resilience in developing economies, relatively few studies have employed econometric approaches—particularly the two-limit Tobit regression model—to analyze climate change adaptation strategies and their determinants in Ethiopia. This study examines the adaptation strategies adopted by smallholder farmers in Konso, Ethiopia, and identifies the principal factors influencing these decisions. A multi-stage random sampling strategy was implemented to select households across the district’s diverse agro-ecological zones. Data were obtained through structured household surveys, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions. Descriptive statistics and a two-limit Tobit regression model were utilized for the analysis. The findings indicate that the majority of smallholder farmers employ intercropping (88.9%), stone terracing (85.6%), livestock destocking (74.5%), agroforestry (72.5%), and crop rotation (63.4%) as adaptation strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change. The results further demonstrate that household size, educational attainment, frequency of extension contact, participation in community-based organizations, access to credit, and the use of improved seeds, chemical fertilizers, and irrigation significantly influence adaptation behavior (p ≤ 0.05). Based on these results, the study recommends strengthening irrigation infrastructure, expanding access to credit, improving weather and climate information systems, and enhancing agricultural extension services. Additionally, promoting gender equity within the agricultural sector is crucial for increasing productivity and ensuring long-term food security in the region.