Farmer adaptation, change and 'crisis' in the Sahel.
Abstract
Perceptions of a continuing crisis in managing Sahelian resources are rooted in five dimensions of the Sahel Drought of 1972-1974 as it was understood at the time: crises in rainfall (drought), food supply, livestock management, environmental degradation, and household coping capabilities. A closer examination of household livelihood and farming systems shows that adaptive strategies have been evolved in response to each of these imperatives. Illustrations are provided from recent research in north-east Nigeria. A systematic understanding of indigenous adaptive capabilities can provide a basis for policies enabling a reduction of dependency on aid assistance in the Sahel.
Citation
Mortimore, M.J.; Adams, W.M. Farmer adaptation, change and ‘crisis’ in the Sahel. Global Environmental Change (2001) 11 (1) 49-57. [DOI: 10.1016/S0959-3780(00)00044-3]