Perception and adaptation to climate change: econometric evidence of the determinants and resilience of farming households in Sare Bidji (Senegal)

This study examines how farming households in the municipality of Sare Bidji, Senegal, perceive climate change and adapt to it in practical terms. It is based on a field survey of 320 family farms spread across 35 villages, combined with an econometric analysis (Probit, Logit, Negative Binomial, Multinomial Logit, and OLS) to identify the factors influencing households’ adaptation decisions and resilience.
This research faced challenges related to the remoteness of certain data collection areas and the low educational attainment of household heads, requiring the interviews to be adapted to the local context.
The results show that farmers have a clear and direct perception of climate change: drought (78.5%), irregular rainfall (71.3%), and rising temperatures (64.8%) are the most frequently mentioned indicators. Farmers with better access to climate-related information and extension services are also more likely to implement adaptation measures.
Furthermore, access to climate information and technical assistance significantly increases the likelihood of adopting adaptation strategies (by 9% and 12%, respectively). The study also highlights the central role of technical assistance (β=0.6) and irrigation (β=0.35) in strengthening household resilience (p < 0.001). These levers enable farmers to reduce their dependence on rainfall and secure their incomes in the face of climate shocks. These results underscore the importance of strengthening climate services, technical support mechanisms, and farmer organizations to bolster the resilience of Sahelian agricultural systems.