Livelihood adaptation and climate variability in Africa

Abstract

This chapter examines the relationship between climate variability, poverty and livelihood adaptation in the context of international development. Drawing on research in Africa we present examples of some of the shocks and stresses that affect African rural livelihoods and outline ways in which the vulnerability and resilience of livelihoods are shaped by climate impacts. Adaptation, whether considered as coping, adjustment, or wider transformation, is affected by factors operating at a range of scales, which interact to form different barriers and limits. Insufficient consideration of these obstacles can cause livelihood adaptations to climate variability to be maladaptive, locking in communities and countries to particular undesirable development pathways. The nexus between adaptation policy and practice is outlined. Reflections on further research to enable livelihood adaptation in light of climate variability conclude the chapter.