Combining Indigenous and Scientific Knowledge of Weather Forecasting as Possible Solution to Increase Rural Farmers Adaptive Capacity against Climate Change in Bambey, Senegal

Abstract

This study investigates on the possible combining of indigenous and scientific knowledge of weather forecasting. Combining the two methods of weather forecasting would help to fill the current gap in the dissemination of weather forecast information among farmers in remote rural area. The study was based on a multi-stage sampling technique of six communities and after calculation process we have arrived at 335 households to be surveyed. Data were also collected through focus group discussions (12) and key informant interviews (12). Analysis of data from household survey was done using Microsoft Excel statistical packages. Qualitative data was analyzed using the thematic approach. The study reveals that (74%) of respondents have noticed changes in rainfall and temperature patterns during last 30 years. However, (33%) of respondents were not aware about causes of climate change and (15%) considered climate change to be God punishment to mankind. Farmers reported to use Plant, Animal behavior, Atmospheric and Astronomical indicators for weather forecasting. For 2017 rainy season (61%) of respondents have forecasted rains to be normal using indigenous. The Senegalese meteorological service also has forecasted normal/above normal rains for the 2017 rainy season. Both scientific and indigenous forecast were true. According to (72%) of respondents both two methods of forecast can be combining and they suggested to create platforms where scientist and indigenous people can exchange information‟s. Some respondents responded to employ strategies to face the change climate such as: reforestation, sowing native variety and short cycle millet and groundnut, use of compost and use of adapted cooking soft. The study suggest to build capacity of farmers‟ leader, women leader, chief, religious leaders and “djeliba” (Traditional speaker) of the villages on causes of climate change and how to adapt from it. Also, research team from elderly famers‟ should be putting in place in view to gather information‟s on the observations made for the upcoming season in view to organize seasonal outlook with scientific forecaster and decision makers.