Perception of Climatic Change and Farmers’ Decision to Adapt in the Sudano-sahelian Zone in Cameroon

Abstract

The objective of this study is to analyze the influence of farmers' perceptions on the decision to adapt to climate change in the Sudano-Sahelian zone of Cameroon. Based on a random draw from 721 farm households. This research shows that 98.6% of respondents in the study area reported having observed significant changes in climatic conditions. In addition, 89% of farmers have adopted at least one strategy to deal with these changes. Heckman's model shows that pessimistic perception about future climate precedes farmers' decision to adapt to climate change. The results also show that gender, membership of a farmer organization, religious beliefs, age, and sources of information are the main determinants of producers' perception and decision to adapt to climate change.