Agricultural Extension's Role in Enhancing Climate Resilience: Insights from Farmers' Perceptions in Gqumashe Village, South Africa

This article investigates the pivotal role of agricultural extension services in alleviating the adverse impacts of climate change and variability on farming, based on the perspectives of farmers in Gqumashe village, located within the Raymond Mhlaba Local Municipality of the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Employing a survey research design, data was collected from 50 respondents using a convenience sampling approach. The collected data was subjected to analysis using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), with descriptive statistics such as means, percentages, and graphical representations being utilized. The study reveals that farmers in the study area possess a strong awareness of climate change and variability, recognizing them as significant threats to agricultural productivity. These farmers reported diverse challenges linked to climate-induced changes and variations to agricultural extension workers and other pertinent agricultural authorities. Based on the findings, the article concludes by providing three pragmatic recommendations: Firstly, it advocates for tailored training programs by extension agents to enhance farmers' comprehension of climate change and variability. Secondly, the article highlights the necessity for regular visits by extension agents, coupled with the provision of up-to-date information on diverse agricultural subjects such as technological advancements, climate change mitigation strategies, and novel farming techniques. Lastly, the article underscores the importance of addressing farmers' demands for market insights and improved storage facilities in the context of extension services. By examining the perceptions of farmers and proposing actionable steps, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of how agricultural extension can effectively bolster climate resilience in farming communities.