This study was conducted to examine the impact of government policies on adaptation to climate change. Each of the four case study countries offers success stories that enhance adaptation strategies.

Kenya’s policies have strongly supported agricultural research and development, as well as an agricultural market environment that has offered incentives to farmers to adopt SLWM. Uganda has implemented government decentralization and a land tenure system, both of which have contributed to the rise of stronger local institutions that offer opportunities for improved community resource management.

Nigeria has recently focused on small-scale irrigation that has increased agricultural production and reduced production risks in the drier, northern states. Even though such irrigation programmes were not implemented as part of adaptation to climate change, they have helped farmers to adapt to climate change. Niger also offers a good example of tree planting and protection.

The report concludes that, in all four countries, policies have influenced the adoption of SLWM and response to climate change in general. It calls for public investment in raising awareness to ensure that these policies to be scaled up and receive the lasting support required to achieve long-term benefits. IFPRI is a member of the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR). [Publication: Climate Risk Management Through Sustainable Land Management in Sub-Saharan Africa]