Farmers' perception of climate change and adaptation strategies in maize (Zea mays) systems in northern Benin

Abstract

In sub-Saharan Africa, sustainable development is threatened by climate change by these adverse effects on the environment, food security, health, etc. in fact, producers in northern Benin are increasingly faced with the need to adapt their cropping systems to changing climate circumstances. This study analyzes the adaptation decision of producers and their perception of climate change. Data are collected from 262 corn producers randomly sampled in three agro-ecological zones in northern Benin through a socio-economic survey. Heckman's Probit model is estimated to identify the factors determining the perception and adaptation of producers to climate variability. This study shows that producers adapt to climate change provided they perceive it through precipitation, temperature, wind and disappearance in the agroecological landscape. In response to these changes, the strategies adopted include: modification of sowing dates (91.4%); crop diversification (88%); other adaptations such as traditional prayers and rituals (70%); fertilization strategies including microdosing (63.8%); adoption of a new variety (43.5%); abandonment or decrease in speculation (34.7%). The model used reveals that producers adapt to climate change as long as they perceive it. The number of agricultural workers and the maize-legume association influence the producer's perception while the level of primary education, the right to own the land and the producer's membership in an organization have an impact on the decision of the producer. adaptation of the producer to climate change. Therefore, government policies that aim to promote adaptation strategies to climate change must take these factors into account to improve the chances of adoption measures for producers.