Climate Variability and Its Impacts on Crop and Livestock Production in Central Highlands of Ethiopia

Abstract

The study sought to assess the impact of climate variability on crop and livestock production and examine the trends and variability of rainfall and temperature in the central highlands of Ethiopia taking Merhabete woreda as a case study site. Using multi stage sampling techniques, 138 household heads were surveyed from different agro ecology zones which were selected through simple random sampling method. To supplement the quantitative survey data, a focus group discussion and a key informant interview were undertaken. In addition, monthly rainfall and temperature data from 1989 to 2019 were utilized to examine the area's rainfall and temperature trends and variability. The study applied Mann–Kendall’s trend tests to detect the magnitude and statistical significance of climate variability. The trend analysis reveals that the annual maximum temperature showed statistically significant increasing trend at p=0.01 level with insignificant decreasing trend of minimum temperature. In line with meteorological data analysis, the results of the household survey suggest that the volume and timing of rain fall in the area is very varied. Crop yield decline, shortages of animal pasture, the emergence of new disease on crops, water scarcity, flood and erosion are the principal perceived impact. Based on the findings, the following recommendations forwarded to reduce the impacts of climatic variability. Update agricultural extension workers knowledge and skills in providing early warning information, improving crop and livestock production, empowering peoples with education and integrate farmer’s climate observations with meteorological record.