Challenges and Opportunities in the Adoption of Climate Smart Agriculture Practices by Smallholder Farmers in Ethiopia

Background: Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) is an approach to increase farmers’ income and agricultural production by adapting to the changing climatic conditions. Ethiopian agriculture is predominantly rain-fed and vulnerable to variability in rainfall and temperature. Adoption of CSA practices and technologies among smallholder farmers remains low. Methods: This study was carried out in Ambo district, Oromia region, Ethiopia to assess the challenges faced by smallholder farmers in the adoption of CSA. A semi-structured interview schedule was used to collect data from 156 respondents from 3 rural villages. Result: Crop residue management and mulching faced stiff competition with livestock feeding since crop residues are allowed for grazing by livestock. Hence, it is suggested to promote the cultivation of fodder grasses. Minimum tillage was practiced by only a few farmers in the study area. The farmers’ belief on minimum tillage should be changed through proper education, training and result demonstration on the advantages of minimum tillage. The awareness of integrated nutrient and soil management should be enhanced by creating awareness of the benefits of soil testing.