Ghana's cocoa; Farmers' perceptions of climate change and its effect on yield and livelihood

This study investigates the perceptions of cocoa farmers in Offinso and Adansi Districts, Ghana, regarding the impact of climate change on their yields, income, and food security. The findings aim to inform policy development and potential mitigation and adaptation strategies. A total of 282 cocoa farmers participated alongside Key Informants. The results indicate a strong consensus among farmers that climate change has negatively affected their yields (0.518 ± 0.501), increased pest and disease prevalence (0.518 ± 0.501), and contributed to cocoa tree mortality (0.482 ± 0.501). This perception is reinforced by the ranking of challenges, where poor yields and increased pest/disease emerged as the most prominent challenges (Relative Importance Index of 0.87 and 0.79, respectively). Interestingly, farmers’ perceptions diverged regarding food security. They expressed neutrality towards statements suggesting a negative climate change impact on their
food security status (Perception Index = 2.89). These findings highlight the critical challenge of reduced cocoa yield due to climate change for farmers. It is therefore recommended that the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), through its extension division, implement immediate actions to educate farmers within the two districts on climate change mitigation strategies. This intervention aligns with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals 1 (No Poverty), 2 (Zero Hunger), and 13 (Climate Action).