Econometric Analysis of the Perception and Adaptation to Climate Change Risks Among Farmers in Congo-Brazzaville

This study analyzes the experience of farmers under Agri-Congo with regard to perception and adaptation to climate change. It is based on a field survey of 201 farmers, comprising 101 in Brazzaville and 100 in Pointe-Noire, the two largest cities in Congo. The statistical results show that most farmers perceive climate change (98.5% of responses) and practise adaptation (85.4% of responses). The high rates of perception and adaptation among farmers are due to their experience in farming activity, and due to their determination to maintain their farming business despite the current risks related to climate change. The problem coping index has shown that lack of experience, limited access to inputs and credit facilities are the main constraints in terms of adaptation. Crop diversification, adjustment of the farm calendar and substitution of crops within the same farm area are the strategies most developed by farmers. The study identified the determinants of perception and adaptation to climate change through the application of the Probit model. Indeed, age, level of education and number of farm employees are the main variables that increase farmers' awareness of climate change, while input donations, farming experience, property rights, engagement in a subsidiary activity and membership in an organization are the key determinants of farmers' adaptation to climate change. Finally, special attention from Agri-Congo should be directed to training, enhancement of farm inputs, fertilizer and input subsidies and issuing of land titles to strengthen the adaptive capacity of farmers.