Assessing Knowledge of Climate Change Management Among Smallholder Crop Farmers in a Refugee Context: Lessons from Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda

Abdullahi Abdulkadir Mohamed; Doreen Atwongyeire; Goretty Nagawa

doi:10.37284/eajenr.8.2.3478

Abdullahi Abdulkadir Mohamed Bishop Stuart University
Doreen Atwongyeire Bishop Stuart University
Goretty Nagawa Bishop Stuart University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.37284/eajenr.8.2.3478

Keywords: Climate Change, Knowledge, Adaptation, Smallholder Farmers, Nakivale

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Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to agricultural productivity, particularly for vulnerable populations such as smallholder farmers in refugee settlements. However, this study assessed the level of knowledge regarding climate change management among smallholder crop farmers in Nakivale Refugee Settlement, Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, with a sample of 384 farmers selected through multistage and stratified sampling techniques. Data were collected via semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, and field observations and were analysed using R software to produce descriptive statistics such as frequency and percentage and inferential statistics such as chi-square tests, and logistic regression, while qualitative data were analysed thematically. Results revealed high levels of climate change awareness and training exposure, with radio/TV being the most common source of information. However, critical knowledge gaps persist, particularly regarding key scientific causes such as fossil fuel emissions and industrial activities. While deforestation was identified as a major driver, none cited fossil fuels. Most respondents demonstrated only moderate knowledge. Significant predictors of higher knowledge included tertiary education, larger farm size, and household size, while construction-based occupations were negatively associated. The findings highlight the need for tailored educational interventions and strengthened institutional support to bridge scientific knowledge gaps and foster informed adaptation strategies in refugee-hosting communities

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