Perception of Climate Variability and Its Impact by Smallholders in Pastoral Systems of Abudwak District, Galmudug State, Somalia

Abstract

it is true in all the regions of the country; there is no stable and reliable documented meteorological data for reasonable tracking of the climate change and variability. Thus, this study explores the perception of significant variability in climate and related impact on local livestock holders among smallholders in pastoral systems of Abudwak district, Somalia. We drew on empirical data obtained from pastoral communities surveys conducted in 4 villages, 169 pastoral associations. Using this data, this study analyses smallholders' perception of climate variability and its associated impact on local livelihood, and the effect of several household on perception. Respondents interviewed during the study period, however, believed that there has been significant variability in the rainfall and temperature patterns for the last twenty years and considered climate variability as a salient risk to their future livelihoods and economic development. Likewise, the general perception of the people is that both rainfall and temperature have highly been fluctuating for decades now became unpredictable with less rainfall in shorter duration and warmer temperature over year now than usual. Different levels of perception were expressed in terms of climate variability and the impact on traditional rain-fed. Age, education level, livestock holding, access to climate information and extension services significantly affected perception levels.