The Impact of Drought Caused by Climate Change on Farmers in Jowhar District, Somalia

<title>Abstract</title> <p>Climate change has become one of the most significant environmental challenges affecting agricultural production and rural livelihoods worldwide. In Somalia, prolonged droughts and irregular rainfall patterns have severely affected agricultural communities, particularly in Jowhar District of the Middle Shabelle Region. This study assessed the impact of drought caused by climate change on farmers in Jowhar District. A descriptive survey research design was employed, and primary data were collected from 100 farmers using structured questionnaires selected through simple random sampling. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the collected data. The findings revealed that 88% of respondents experienced drought during the previous five years. Water scarcity (95%), reduced crop production (90%), food insecurity (88%), reduced household income (85%), and livestock losses (70%) were identified as the major effects of drought. Most respondents also observed increased rainfall variability (92%), reduced rainfall reliability (89%), and more frequent extreme weather events (85%). Farmers adopted several coping strategies, including planting drought-resistant crops, borrowing money, and selling livestock. Long-term adaptation measures identified by respondents included improved irrigation systems, climate-smart agriculture, drought-resistant crop varieties, and water harvesting. However, financial constraints, inadequate infrastructure, limited farmer training, and insufficient institutional support continue to hinder effective adaptation. The study concludes that climate change-induced drought poses a serious threat to agricultural productivity, food security, and the livelihoods of farmers in Jowhar District. Strengthening irrigation infrastructure, promoting climate-smart agricultural practices, improving access to extension services, and enhancing government and NGO support are recommended to improve resilience against future droughts.</p>