Vulnerability and adaptive capacity of fisheries-dependent communities on the Coast of Berbera to climate change

Abstract

Fisheries-dependent communities in the Horn of Africa, specifically Somaliland, are highly vulnerable to climate change. However, empirical research on their specific perceptions and adaptation strategies is limited. This study addresses this gap by focusing on the fisheries community in Berbera, Somaliland. Using a mixed-methods approach, this study combined a quantitative survey of 286 households with qualitative data from Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, and observations to assess climate perceptions, document adaptation strategies, and identify key determinants and constraints. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the participants’ perceptions and strategies, while thematic analysis was applied to the qualitative data. Logistic regression was used to identify the key determinants of adaptation. The findings revealed a very high level of climate change perception (96%), with fishers primarily identifying increased wind strength and temperature fluctuations as major threats, leading to reduced production and equipment damage. In response, the community relies heavily on reactive coping mechanisms, such as the distress sale of household assets (99.3%), rather than proactive technical adaptation. Key constraints include financial, technical, and knowledge-based barriers, all of which are underpinned by significant institutional weaknesses. Regression analysis confirmed that education, income, access to services, and fishing experience are significant and positive determinants of adopting more proactive strategies. This study concludes that the Berbera fishing community exhibits high vulnerability, characterized by high awareness but constrained adaptive capacity. Targeted interventions are urgently needed to strengthen financial access, technical capacity, and institutional support to build long-term resilience in the fisheries sector.