ASSESSMENT OF CLIMATE CHANGE AWARENESS AND ADAPTATION STRATEGIES BY WOMEN IN JADA LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA ADAMAWA STATE.

This study examines the impact of climate change on women in Jada Local Government Area (LGA), with a focus on their awareness, socio-economic characteristics, and the adaptation measures they employ to mitigate its effects. Conducted in a predominantly agrarian community, the research utilized a mixed-method approach, collecting data through the administration of 220 questionnaires, of which 200 were valid for analysis. Both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including Chi-Square tests, were used to analyze the data. The results indicate that a significant majority of women are aware of climate change, with many attributing their knowledge to farming experiences and community interactions. The study found that climate change has profoundly affected economic activities, particularly farming, leading to issues such as crop failure, spoilage of produce, and increased flooding. These challenges have adversely impacted the livelihoods of women in the region. In response, women have adopted various adaptation strategies, including water storage, rainwater harvesting, and tree planting. However, the effectiveness of these strategies is often limited by barriers such as inadequate access to information, necessary inputs, and appropriate technology. The Chi-Square analysis revealed that awareness of climate change is significantly influenced by socio-economic factors, including age, education, and occupation. The study concludes that while women in Jada LGA are aware of and actively responding to climate change, their efforts are constrained by several challenges. To enhance their resilience, it is recommended that government agencies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) provide targeted support in the form of education, resources, and training programs. By addressing these challenges, women in Jada LGA can better manage the impacts of climate change, thereby improving their economic stability and overall well-being.