Vulnerability of smallholder vegetable farmers to climate variability in Bosome Freho, Ghana

Bibliographic Data

ID17822649
AuthorsFrank Baffour-Ata (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, corresponding author), Jonathan Atta-Aidoo (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Louisa Boakye (0000-0002-6216-1761, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Wisdom Adzigbli (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Meloney Asenso Acheampong (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Russell Tettey Angmor (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Bonsu Williams Sarkodie (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Salomey Ayinebuno Adongo (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Maud Emefa Egbedzi (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Hawawu Alhassan (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology), Patrick Davies (0000-0001-6540-6368, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology)
Year2026
Volume50
Issue9
Pages1-29
Publication date2026-02-25
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueAgroecology and Sustainable Food Systems (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 2168-3565 • E-ISSN: 2168-3573
PublisherTaylor & Francis (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1080/21683565.2026.2635087
OpenAlexW7133806874
LanguageEN
References cited37

Vegetable farming is a key source of income and nutrition for households in Ghana; however, it faces increasing risks due to climate variability. Understanding farmers’ vulnerability is essential for designing effective adaptation strategies. This study assessed the vulnerability of smallholder vegetable farmers to climate variability in the Bosome Freho District, Ghana. Using household surveys (n = 150) and three focus group discussions, we assessed rainfall and temperature trends from 2000 to 2022 with the Mann-Kendall trend test and assessed the smallholder vegetable farmers' vulnerability using the Livelihood Vulnerability Index-Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (LVI-IPCC) framework. The Mann-Kendall trend test revealed a decline in rainfall (p > 0.05) and a significant increase in temperature (p < 0.05). Farmers observed these changes, with 85% noting reduced rainfall and 89% reporting higher temperatures. Adaptation strategies included creating ridges and channels (77%) and cultivating vegetables in elevated areas (74%). The LVI-IPCC framework indicated low overall vulnerability, with Adeito being the most vulnerable. Policymakers are advised to monitor and update the vulnerability index to prioritize and support the most affected communities. The findings underscore the need for targeted government interventions, improved meteorological services, and support for adaptive practices to strengthen farmers’ resilience to climate variability.

Agriculture · Climate change · Crop production · Food security · Livelihood · Vulnerability (computing) · Vulnerability assessment · Agricultural Innovations and Practices · Agricultural pest management studies · Climate change impacts on agriculture

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