Adapting Gambian women livestock farmers’ roles in food production to climate change

Abstract

Women livestock farmers are very productive and contribute greatly towards ensuring food security of their nations. However, their efforts are sometimes limited by climate-related hazards. This case study of The Gambia used content analysis, interviews, consultative seminars, policy mapping and dialogues to examine climate change adaptation issues confronting women livestock farmers in particular. Consequences of climate hazards, such as drought, flood, and temperature variability, have been experienced in The Gambia. Domestication of fast-growing small animals, use of resilient livestock breeds, stock size management, feed gardening and conservation, bushfire control, and regular supply of water to animals can reduce farmers’ exposure to climatic variations. There were varied opinions among male and female stakeholder groups concerning adaptation options, such as rangeland management and bush fire control. Enhancing the adaptive capacities of women livestock farmers will involve many stakeholders: the government, research institutions, extension service agencies, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector have varying but complementary roles to play.