Assessment of Farmer Awareness and Adoption of Climate-Smart Agricultural Practices in Smallholder Communities

Abstract

Climate change presents an escalating threat to smallholder farmers in developing regions, necessitating the adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) to ensure food security, resilience, and environmental sustainability. This study evaluates the level of awareness and adoption of CSA practices among smallholder communities, drawing on recent survey data and field-based insights. The findings reveal that farmer awareness of CSA is strongly influenced by education, access to extension services, and timely climate information. Adoption rates vary due to socio-economic, institutional, and cultural factors, including gender roles, credit availability, and land resources. Positive impacts of CSA, such as increased productivity and income, are evident where practices like intercropping, conservation agriculture, and drought-tolerant crops have been implemented. However, barriers such as resource constraints, weak institutional support, and socio-cultural resistance persist. The report concludes with a targeted action plan for agricultural extension officers, focusing on improving training, enhancing access to information and credit, and fostering inclusive, community-led adoption approaches. These strategies aim to bridge existing gaps and promote sustainable agricultural transformation in smallholder settings.