The impact of climate variability and change on domestic livestock in Adansi North District of Ghana

Livestock forms an important component of livelihood and food security strategies of smallholder farmers, particularly in Africa. However, changing climate such as rising temperature, erratic rainfall, and spread of pests and diseases threaten the livestock sector. Nevertheless, in Ghana, the livestock sector has not received the needed attention in climate change impact discourse and research. Understanding the implications of changing climate on livestock activities of smallholder farmers is critical to minimizing climate change impact on food security and livelihood among the poor. This study adopted a qualitative descriptive case study approach to explore the lived experience of fifteen (15) district agriculture officers and twenty six (26) smallholder livestock farmers, on climate change and livestock in the rural Adansi North District of Ghana. Data collection instruments included semi structured interview and non-participant observation. The study analyzed data manually through thematic analysis. Participants indicated that changes in rainfall and temperature have great negative impact on livestock. The major impact of climate change on livestock include rampant spread of pests and disease, resulting in deaths of livestock, reduction in quality of meat, changes in growth pattern, loss of weight and unrest. The study shows that participants face challenges in feeding their livestock due to lack of fodder caused by extreme weather events. The study recommends that the capacity of existing institutions particularly in rural communities should be strengthened while new institutions should be established with focus on livestock. There is also the urgent need to intensify veterinary education and improve extension service delivery in rural communities. Moreover, mass education and training of farmers should be intensified to build their capacity.