Analysis of Farmers’ Vulnerability and Agroforestry‐Based Adaptation Strategies to Climate Change and Variability in Ezha District of Gurage Zone, Ethiopia

The study investigates farmers’ vulnerability status and adaptation strategies to climate change and variability across agroecological zones in the Ezha District of Gurage Zone, Ethiopia. The study used a cross‐sectional research design and multistage sampling techniques. Primary data were collected from 190 farmers using an interview schedule, supplemented by focus group discussions and key informant interviews, whereas the secondary data were collected from Google Scholar databases and respective offices. The study employed a livelihood vulnerability index, descriptive and inferential statistics, and a multinomial logit model to analyze the data. The results of the study indicate that the Dega exhibited higher exposure and sensitivity, low adaptive capacity, while the Woyina Dega demonstrated lower exposure, higher adaptive capacity of climate change and variability. Overall, Kolla exhibits the highest vulnerable agroecological zone, followed by Dega, whereas Woyina Dega demonstrates the lowest vulnerability. The results of the study indicate that approximately 82.6% of farmers adopted various strategies to adapt to climate change and variability. About 64%, 64.7%, and 45.3% of farmers have practiced soil and water conservation, agroforestry practices, and improved crop variety as the major strategies in Dega, Woyina Dega, and Koll agroecological zones, respectively. The study reveals that agroecological setting, farmland size, farm experience, and access to training were significantly affecting adaptation strategies to climate change and variability. The study concludes that vulnerability status and adaptation strategies to climate change and variability differed across agroecological zones in the study area. Finally, the study suggests implementing agroecology‐based adaptation strategies as essential interventions to minimize the vulnerability and mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change and variability.