Impact of Climate Variability on Livelihood of Communities in Kamuku National Park Brinin-Gwari, Kaduna State

Abstract

climate variability has serious effect on the livelihood of rural people who depend on agriculture. The dependency of local people on agriculture and its significant contribution to their socio economic wellbeing make the situation more critical. The study examine the impact of climate variability on livelihood of communities around Kamuku National Park, Brinin Gwari, Kaduna State, Nigeria. Data for the study were collected with the use of structured questionnaire administered to 280 house heads in 8 villages (Brinin Gwari, Mando, Doka, Bungi, Dangara, Sabo laye and Kakagngi) around the park. The result revealed that majority of respondent had little knowledge on the cost of climate variability. They are aware of the changes in climate variables of their areas in terms of increase in temperature, changes in rainfall pattern and intensity. The community perceived decline in agricultural production as a major impact of climate variability. Other impact perceived are shortage of water for irrigation, household and animal consumption, cases of diseases in human, plant and animals, decrease in soil fertility and migration of youth. The study recommended awareness on climate variability to the communities on causes and effect of climate variability, awareness on climate variability and its impact on livelihood must be raised in the community. People are experiencing changing climate but they don't know the causes and consequences of it.