Abstract:
This study investigates the practices and challenges of climate-smart agriculture (CSA) within
agro-pastoral livelihoods in Harshin Woreda, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia, and a region
particularly vulnerable to climate change. The primary objective was to assess the existing
climate patterns, understand the impact of climate change on agro-pastoral communities, and
identify the CSA practices adopted by these communities. Additionally, the study aimed to
evaluate the barriers to implementing CSA practices and their effects on the livelihoods of
agro-pastoral households. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative
and qualitative data collection techniques. Multivariate probit (MVP) was employed to identify
factors influencing adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices, while the Propensity
Score Matching (PSM) technique was used to evaluate the impact of adoption of climate-smart
agricultural practices on the annual income of households in the study area. The study sampled
286 agro-pastoral households from Harshin Woreda, utilizing questionnaires, interviews,
focus group discussions, and document analysis to gather comprehensive data. The analysis
revealed significant climatic challenges, such as increasing temperatures and decreasing
rainfall, which exacerbate the vulnerabilities of agro-pastoral communities. The study also
identified key CSA practices, including crop rotation, water-efficient irrigation, and integrated
soil fertility management, though the overall adoption rate remains low due to barriers such
as limited access to resources, inadequate institutional support, and cultural resistance to
change. The findings underscore the critical need for targeted interventions to enhance the
adoption of CSA practices, which are essential for improving the resilience and sustainability
of agro-pastoral livelihoods in the face of climate change. The research contributes valuable
insights for policymakers and development practitioners, offering practical recommendations
to strengthen CSA adoption. These insights are crucial for developing effective policies and
programs that can mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on agro-pastoral communities
in Ethiopia and similar regions. In conclusion, the study highlights the importance of
addressing the barriers to CSA adoption through improved resource access, institutional support, and community engagement. These steps are vital for promoting sustainable
agricultural practices and enhancing the resilience of vulnerable communities to the ongoing
challenges posed by climate change.
