Prioritizing Inclusive Practices for Rural Women Smallholder Farmers Participation in Climate Change Adaptation and Ecological Education in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract

Rural women smallholder farmers (RWSF) play a central role in agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA); however, their potentials for adaptation to climate change (CC) remain underused. In this study, we identified and prioritized best practices for including RWSF in climate resilience-building efforts through the teaching of ecological coping strategies and adaptation to CC. Employing a mixed-method approach, the study combines a systematic review of 78 articles with participatory workshops that included 100 RWSF, 10 NGOs, and 3 local authorities from a climate-sensitive district in Benin. The review reported 16 adaptation strategies, including conservation agriculture, climate-smart approaches, and income generation projects. Furthermore, 13 inclusion practices were identified, including incremental learning, awareness campaigns, land and finance access, and recognition of women as agents of change. The workshops allowed stakeholders to prioritize the reported practices given their local context. The results revealed significant differences in the rankings established by the stakeholders. Although RWSF prioritized incremental learning and land access, NGOs emphasized capacity building and women's development, and local authorities stressed awareness campaigns and access to climate finance. Meaningful inclusion of RWSF in teaching ecological coping and climate adaptation strategies can challenge gender norms, promote socio-economic empowerment, and enhance environmental sustainability. The study offers evidence-based recommendations for policymakers, NGOs, and communities to integrate gender-sensitive approaches into adaptation interventions.