Local Insights into Climate Change Adaptation in Cabo Verde : A study from rural agricultural areas of Santa Cruz on Santiago Island

Abstract

Impacts of climate change in Cabo Verde are felt by many, and adaptation to the changing climate is common. Tograsp how climate change adaptation affects local people and environments, and if the adaptation could and should be improved, it is relevant to take a closer look at local’s experiences of this. This study intends to find out if the current adaptation strategies in Santa Cruz in Cabo Verde are in line with local people’s needs in terms of adaptation. The study asks: to what extent do locals perceive that the ongoing climate change adaptation process corresponds with their needs. It also puts a critical focus on adaptation by asking about positive and negative sides of it, about participation in the adaptation process, and about differences between groups and between people, including women and men. In this context, it is climate change adaptation in a rural agricultural setting that is being explored, largely water-related adaptation and agricultural adaptation.