Perception and Adaptation Strategies of Farmers Facing the Effects of Climate Change in Daniellia Oliveri Agroforestry Parklands in the Sudano-Sahelian Zone of Cameroon

Abstract

The reliance of farmers in tropical countries, particularly in northern Cameroon, on rain-fed agriculture heightens their vulnerability to climate change. To align their agricultural practices with evolving climatic conditions, local farmers have developed a set of empirical indicators to assess these disturbances. However, these traditional knowledge systems have not been the subject of formal scientific study in the Sudano-sahelian zone of Cameroon, despite their critical importance to the agricultural sector. This study aims to analyze the evolution of climatic parameters within Daniellia oliveri agroforestry parklands to evaluate the correspondence between farmer perceptions and observed climatic variations, as well as the adaptation strategies subsequently adopted. To achieve this objective, a methodological approach incorporating surveys was employed in the Bénoué and Mayo-Rey Divisions. A total of 504 farmers operating within these agroforestry systems (252 in each Division) were surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire. Additionally, instrumental climate data were collected from the Garoua airport meteorological station for analysis. The results indicate that the primary manifestations of climate change perceived and observed are increased temperatures and a delayed onset of rains. Quantitatively, the heaviest rainfall events were recorded in 1999 and 2008 (87 mm and 90 mm, respectively), while the highest mean annual temperatures were recorded in 2015 and 2016 (29.13°C and 29.21°C, respectively). In terms of perception, 61.65% of farmers reported a decrease in overall rainfall, and 66.05% reported an increase in temperature. In response, farmers have developed several adaptation strategies, including limiting deforestation (31.2%), utilizing organic fertilizers (31.26%), and moderating chemical inputs (33.51%). The study concludes that policymakers should prioritize the development and support of agroforestry parklands as a key adaptation strategy for rural populations. This would enhance community resilience and reduce vulnerability to the adverse effects of climate change.