Vulnerability and adaptative capacity to climate change in five localities riparating the wetlands of the Oti Plain in the north du of Togo

Abstract

In the National Development Plan (PND) 2018-2022, particularly in point 1.5, in connection with environmental management, taking into account the fight against climate change has been clearly defined as crucial for the development of Togo based on the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNACC). With this in mind, we have assessed the vulnerability and adaptive capacities to climate variability and change in five localities bordering the wetlands of the Oti Plain. The work consisted of conducting surveys in a participatory manner with the target groups. These surveys focused on the perception of populations and producers of climate change, the shocks experienced, and adaptation measures. Risk indices were calculated. Then we proceeded to calculate the vulnerability or severity indices. The results highlight the irregularity of rains, poverty in general, the poverty of agricultural soils, pockets of drought, the drop in agricultural yields, diseases, and deforestation as the main shocks emanating from climate change. The observation of the populations indicates a clear increase in temperatures and an irregularity in rainfall. The adaptive capacities developed by producers to cope with these multifaceted shocks have been identified and depend on the production sector. Given these results, future investigations should make it possible to deepen the understanding of climate change in all vulnerable sectors. This information will be used to better establish adaptation strategies to climate change, particularly in vulnerable areas.