Adaptation to Climate Change Shocks by Farmers in Africa

Changing climate and weather patterns are predicted to have severe negative impacts on food production, food security and natural resources. Without appropriate responses, climate change is likely to constrain economic development and poverty reduction efforts and exacerbate already pressing difficulties (Bamwerinde, et al, 2006).Countries with economies rooted in climate sensitive sectors like agriculture, fisheries and forestry are expected to be hit hardest. Climate change is both a global environment and a local development issue, as it could jeopardize the livelihoods of millions, particularly where its impacts are compounded by other factors or where existing poverty and hunger make it particularly difficult to cope with its impacts (Deressa, 2006).