Organic and Climate-Smart Adaptation Strategies among Sweet potato Seed Producers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria: Sustainable and Innovative Practices

Abstract

Climate change poses significant threats to agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa, Cparticularly among smallholder farmers dependent on rain-fed systems. This study examined the adoption of organic and Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) strategies among sweet potato seed producers in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, with the aim of assessing their awareness and effectiveness in enhancing resilience, and estimate factors influencing adoption. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 60 seed producers, and data were collected using structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Analytical tools included descriptive statistics, Likert scale analysis, multinomial logit regression, and correlation analysis. The results revealed that awareness of CSA and organic practices was universal, adoption varied widely across practices. Improved varieties and basic pest management practices recorded high adoption rates, while capital-intensive and technically complex practices such as irrigation systems and advanced nursery technologies had low uptake. Correlation analysis showed a strong positive relationship between integrated pest management and soil health practices, and negative associations between improved varieties and some other strategies. The multinomial logit results indicated that gender, age, household size, education, extension contact, and income significantly influenced adoption decisions. Notably, extension contact and income positively affected adoption, while farming experience showed a negative relationship with some practices, suggesting resistance to change among more experienced farmers. The study recommends improved access to credit, strengthened extension services, and targeted capacity-building programs to promote integrated and sustainable adoption of CSA strategies among seed producers.