This study aims to analyze the impact of climate change (CC) on food availability among the Adjoukrou people of Dabou department, through agricultural production and related activities.
It is based on a mixed-method approach combining quantitative and qualitative methods, combining direct observations in the field, a questionnaire survey and individual semi-directive interviews.
Among the Adjoukrou, speaking of CC means referring to rain, temperature and wind. The CC in Dabou is manifested by an increase in temperature, an increase in heat, a decrease in rainfall, a lengthening of the dry season, and violent winds that destroy crops. This impacts the agricultural calendar (shift), biodiversity (decrease in reproduction and disappearance of animal species), agricultural and related activities.
In terms of agriculture, CC has led to a considerable decrease in food crop yields (cassava, plantain, yams, vegetables, etc.).
In related agricultural activities, CC has led to a decline in yields of attiéké, palm oil, fishing (fish) and hunting (game), resulting in higher food prices.
Most foodstuffs are imported (plantain, yams, vegetables, etc.), making them more expensive. In sum, the CC has reduced food availability and made food expensive in Dabou, forcing the Adjoukrou people to seek supplies in other regions of the country.