Keywords
cassava farmers
adoption
climate resilience
How to Cite
Abstract
This study analysed climate-smart agriculture (CSA) adoption and its role in building resilience among cassava farmers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were analysed using percentage, mean score, paired sample t-test, and logistic regression. Results showed that 68.3% of respondents were male, 55.0% were aged 31–50 years, 42.5% had secondary education, 50.0% had household sizes of 6–10 persons, and 47.5% had 10–20 years of farming experience. The most adopted CSA practices were improved cassava varieties (x̄ = 4.3), intercropping (x̄ = 3.9), and organic manure use (x̄ = 3.6). These practices enhanced resilience, particularly in adapting farming strategies (x̄ = 4.0), maintaining yield despite irregular rainfall (x̄ = 3.9), and ensuring income stability (x̄ = 3.7). Cassava output significantly increased after CSA adoption, from 10.5 t/ha to 14.8 t/ha (mean difference = 4.3 t/ha; t = 9.12; p < 0.001). Education, farm size, access to extension, credit, cooperatives, and climate information significantly influenced CSA adoption. The study recommends improving access to education, extension, and climate services to promote CSA adoption and enhance cassava productivity.
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