How climate change is affecting women farmers with disabilities

Climate change is disproportionately impacting women farmers with disabilities in Nigeria, creating substantial hurdles to their agricultural activities and overall livelihoods. A recent study highlights the severity of these challenges, revealing that at least 1,118 women with disabilities engaged in farming across 27 states are struggling to maintain their practices.

The research, conducted by the Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative, underscores the multifaceted difficulties these women face. These barriers are exacerbated by the changing climate, which affects crop yields, water availability, and the overall predictability of farming seasons. For women with disabilities, these environmental shifts often compound existing socioeconomic and physical challenges.

The findings point to a critical need for targeted support and adaptive strategies to ensure the resilience of these vulnerable farmers. Addressing the unique barriers faced by women with disabilities in the agricultural sector is crucial for their economic empowerment and for maintaining food security in Nigeria.