Enhancing resilience of at-risk social groups to climate change in two contrasting ecosystems in the semi-arid Far North Region Cameroon

Abstract Climate change and variability contribute to exacerbating poverty and social tensions in poor countries. This research examines the underlying processes that contribute to a shared understanding of the socio-ecological resilience of upland and floodplain farming systems in the Far North Region of Cameroon. Built on community-based data and 28 key informant interviews to characterize farmers’ livelihoods, including implications of (non) climate factors on the latter, the research uses qualitative content analysis for data validation and analysis. The study reveals that the majority of farmers are most concerned about erratic rains and false starts, two major constraints for farm output. Further, the breakup of social capital as community members scatter in desperate search of alternative livelihood options is another factor. Overall, the resilience of farming communities in the studied areas is largely undermined by exposure to water- and vector-borne diseases, inadequate village infrastructure, lack of timely access to quality agro-input, seasonal weather forecasts, and institutional support. Food shortages are a potential consequence. Further, over-reliance on grazing land and water leaves herders with little or no viable options, just a narrow window to move their livestock to the neighbouring Chad Republic in a quest for fodder – a costly and counterproductive option. Finally, the findings suggest effectual coping strategies and a culture of adaptive management, including the establishment of relevant institutions to lessen vulnerability and foreseeable threats to food security in the semiarid climate change hotspots of the Far North region Cameroon.