Evaluating Adaptive Capacity and Welfare of Farmers in Uganda's Climate-Vulnerable Regions Using an Index-Based Method

The escalating impacts of climate change on agricultural regions in Africa underscore the urgent need for effective adaptation strategies. This study aims to quantify factors influencing the well-being and adaptation capacity of farmers in climate-vulnerable areas. Conducted from December 2023 to March 2024 in Kigezi and Acholi regions, the study sampled 320 farmers using random sampling. The Adaptive Capacity and Welfare Index (ACWI) was used to describe the well-being and adaptive capacity of farmers in climate-vulnerable areas. ACWI comprises five components (Access to Welfare Programs, Social Relationship Conditions, Family Welfare Conditions, Adaptation Capacity, Experience with Innovation/Technology, and Climate Change Extension). Linear regression results identify several significant factors influencing ACWI, such as village location, planting activities during the dry season, number of family dependents, cultivated land area, education level, income from rice farming, alternative employment, and fishing activities. Kigezi region showed a higher ACWI compared to Acholi, indicating better business diversification and climate change awareness. This study underscores the importance of considering local conditions and socio-economic factors in enhancing farmers' adaptive capacity and welfare. Policy recommendations should focus on improving access to resources, adaptation programs, training, and promoting farmer education and business diversification to ensure sustainability and productivity in agriculture amidst climate change challenges