Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The impact of climate change on agricultural practices and food security has become a major global concern. This study aims to investigate the relationship between changing climatic conditions and crop production in the context of smallholder farming systems in Sub-Saharan Africa. Through a combination of field surveys, remote sensing data analysis, and crop modeling techniques, the research assesses the vulnerability of major staple crops such as maize, sorghum, and millet to climate variability and change. The findings highlight the sensitivity of crop yields to temperature and precipitation fluctuations, with different crops showing varying levels of resilience. The study reveals that rising temperatures have a significant negative impact on maize production, particularly in regions already experiencing high levels of heat stress. Conversely, sorghum and millet exhibit greater resilience to temperature increases, although their yields are still influenced by changing rainfall patterns. Furthermore, the research examines the adaptation strategies employed by smallholder farmers to cope with climate variability, including changes in planting dates, crop varieties, and water management practices. It also identifies constraints faced by farmers in implementing these strategies, such as limited access to climate information, financial resources, and support services. The results suggest that improving farmers' access to climate-smart technologies and practices is crucial for enhancing their resilience to climate change and ensuring food security in the region. Policy recommendations include the promotion of drought-tolerant crop varieties, sustainable water management systems, and extension services that provide tailored advice to farmers based on local climatic conditions. Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the complex interactions between climate change, agricultural production, and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa. By highlighting the vulnerabilities and adaptation strategies of smallholder farmers, it provides valuable insights for policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners working towards building sustainable and resilient agricultural systems in the face of a changing climate.

Thesis Overview