Smallholder farmers’ perceptions, coping and adaptation strategies to climate variability in the UNESCO designated cultural landscapes of Konso, Ethiopia

Smallholder farmers in the UNESCO-listed Konso Cultural Landscape of Ethiopia perceive climate variability as a significant threat, with late-onset rains, shortened rainy seasons, and recurring droughts being the most pronounced manifestations. These changes are linked to increased weed and pest infestations, as well as heat-induced diseases. The study found that education, access to credit, extension services, and climate information positively influence farmers' perceptions and adaptation strategies, such as terracing, agroforestry, and irrigation. Policy interventions focusing on diversifying livelihoods and improving access to reliable climate data are recommended to enhance adaptive capacity and reduce vulnerability.

Gashure, S., & Wana, D. (2023). Smallholder farmers’ perceptions, coping and adaptation strategies to climate variability in the UNESCO designated cultural landscapes of Konso, Ethiopia. Local Environment, 28(10), 1243–1262. https://doi.org/10.1080/13549839.2023.2202379