Authors:
Alalade O.A.
, Oladunni O.A.
, Akinboye O.A.
, Daudu A.K.
, Ogunrinde T.O. |
Abstract:
Despite the importance of fish to the world economy, reports around the world indicate
vulnerability of fish production to climate change. This study therefore ascertained climate
change adaptation strategies used by fish farmers in Pategi Local Government Area (LGA) of
Kwara State, Nigeria. A systematic random sampling technique was used to select 185
respondents for the study. Data were elicited with the aid of a questionnaire coupled with
interview schedule and analyzed using descriptive statistics and Probit regression model. Results
revealed that the mean age of respondents was 42.6 years while 65.4% were literate. Majority
(87.5%) of the respondents exhibited a high level of awareness of the impacts of climate change
on their fish farming activities and livelihoods. Radio (26.7%) and internet (17.8%) were the
major sources of information utilized by the fish farmers on climate change. Prominent
adaptation strategies used by the farmers include: building ponds close to water sources, stocking
of early maturing fish species, building concrete/tarpaulin, preventive treatment of fish and
others. The standardized coefficients for age (0.022), education (0.041) and farming experience
(0.037) had a positive influence (*P_<0.05) on the use of coping strategies by farmers. It was
recommended that government through the ministry of agriculture formulates policies
specifically focused on farmers' adaptation to climate change so as to improve income. Also,
efforts should be geared towards enlightening fish farmers on the use of indigenous climate change adaptive strategies in combination with the modern methods so as to help combat climate
change impact sustainably and enhance better livelihoods.
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