Effects of Climate Change Induced Farmer-Herder Conflicts on Socio-Economic Development of Farmers in Giwa Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

The effects of climate change in Giwa Local Government Area (LGA) is worrisome. Several impacts of climate change such as drought, desertification,  unpredicted rainfall and increasing temperature are evidenced in the area. This situation has intensified conflicts between farmers and herders who are  always competing to control the scarce natural resources. This study is aimed at assessing the effects of climate change induced farmer-herder conflicts  on socio-economic development of farmers in Giwa LGA, Kaduna state. To achieve its aim, the study adopted quantitative approach where structured  questionnaire was used to collect primary data from 384 respondents. Data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics (percentages). Findings  from the study revealed that rainfall is becoming irregular (71%), there was high incidence of sunshine (74%), increased incidence of drought (59%) and  drying up of surface and underground water sources (80%). As a result of the negative effects of climate change in the area, the study also revealed that  there were serious conflicts between farmers and herders which causes social and psychological disorders (65%), loss of lives (67%), vandalisation of  properties (73%), as well as forced migration and displacement of people (74%). Based on the research, the study recommends the need to enhance  farmers/herders’ adaptation strategies through effective water harvesting techniques and establishment of public ranches with modernised technologies  that can restrict the movement of herders.