Econometric Analysis of the Perception and Adaptation to Climate Change Risks Among Farmers in Congo-Brazzaville
Date
2020-08-03
Authors
Mferé, Wolf
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
African Economic Research consortium
Abstract
This study analyzes the experience of farmers under Agri-Congo with regard to
perception and adaptation to climate change. It is based on a field survey of 201
farmers, comprising 101 in Brazzaville and 100 in Pointe-Noire, the two largest
cities in Congo. The statistical results show that most farmers perceive climate
change (98.5% of responses) and practice adaptation (85.4% of responses).
The high rates of perception and adaptation among farmers are due to their
experience in farming activity, and due to their determination to maintain their
farming business despite the current risks related to climate change. The problem
coping index has shown that lack of experience, limited access to inputs and credit facilities are the main constraints in terms of adaptation. Crop diversification,
adjustment of the farm calendar and substitution of crops within the same farm area
are the strategies most developed by farmers. The study identified the determinants
of perception and adaptation to climate change through the application of the
Probit model. Indeed, age, level of education and number of farm employees are
the main variables that increase farmers' awareness of climate change, while input
donations, farming experience, property rights, engagement in a subsidiary activity
and membership in an organization are the key determinants of farmers' adaptation
to climate change. Finally, special attention from Agri-Congo should be directed to
training, enhancement of farm inputs, fertilizer and input subsidies and issuing of
land titles to strengthen the adaptive capacity of farmers.