Impact of Climate Change on Ginger Production and Adaptation Strategies among Farmers in Southern parts of Kaduna State, Nigeria.

Abstract

This study sought to investigate the impact of climate change on ginger production and adaptation strategies among farmers in southern parts of Kaduna state. The descriptive research design was adopted. Two research questions and one hypothesis guided the study. The population for the study was 36,545 consisting of 36,515 ginger farmers and 30 Extension Agents (E.As). structured questionnaire was used to collect data. The instrument was face validated by five experts. Cronbach alpha method was used to determine the internal consistency of the instrument which yielded a coefficient of 0.82. Mean, Standard deviation and t-test statistic were used for data analysis. Results of the study indicated that some of the impacts of climate change on ginger production in the area include delayed onset and early cessation of rain, emergence of pests and diseases, reduction in yield among others. Findings further indicated that in order to survive the current changing weather condition with its attendant effect, ginger farmers employ the following as adaptation strategies: cover cropping, use of organic manure, mulching, protection of water shed, planting resistant and early maturing varieties, and mixed farming practices among others. Provision of early weather information among others will help farmers navigate the adverse effects of climate change.