Impact of Rainfall Variability on Crop Yield and Farmers Adaptation Practices in Metema Woreda, North Gondar Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

Crops need optimum level of water for their proper growth. However, rainfall variability affects the amount of crop production. The objective of this study was to examine the impact of rainfall variability of farmers’ crop production and their adaptation strategies at Metemaworeda of North Gondar zone. Adopting a cross-section survey design and using stratified random sampling technique, a total of 266(male=146 & female=120) households were involved in the study. Moreover, focus group discussants and key informant interviewees were involved in the study using purposive sampling technique. The study used both primary and secondary data; secondary data were accessed from other sources. The primary data were collected using household survey (quantitative) and FGDs and key informant interview (qualitative). Data analysis were undertaken using SPSS, PCI and Micro Soft Excel; whereas, thematic analysis were used to analyze the qualitative data. Results show that average annual temperature has increased by 0.4°C per annum since 1999. Moreover, on average precipitation intensity within the woreda decreased by 7.7 mm per annum. Results showed that there is seasonal and annual rainfall variability in the study area. Annual rainfall has statistically significant relationship with crop production in the study area(r=0.65, p<0.05) and it explained about 33% of variation in crop production in the study area at 95% confidence interval (p<0.05). Results also revealed that unpredictable rainfall (81%), recurrent drought (88%), decrease of river volume (88%), the rain comes and goes early (93%) and it comes late and goes early (80%). there is decrement in crop yield (82%) and the amount of precipitation is not sufficient for full cropping (81%).. Moreover, data from FGD and key informant interview also confirmed that crop production has decreased due to rainfall variability. Rainwater harvesting, use of ground water, expanding irrigable land, use of reservoirs, inter-cropping system and planting draught resistant crops are some of the adaptation strategies used by farmers in the study area. Finally, recommendations such as the restoration of the degraded ecosystem by applying various mechanisms such as forestation and reforestation is recommended for Metmaworeda Agriculture and Rural Development Office and other concerned bodies. Key words: Rainfall variability, crop production, adaptation practice, farmers