ABSTRACT
This study explores the impact of climate change on agricultural yields in Togo by leveraging various modeling approaches and analyzing future scenarios. Since Togolese agriculture is predominantly rain-fed, it remains highly vulnerable to climate disruptions, including rising temperatures, erratic precipitation patterns, and a growing frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. The country is divided into three distinct climatic zones: the humid tropical region in the south, the tropical savanna in the central area, and the semi-arid zone in the north. Each zone faces different climate-related risks affecting key crops such as maize, rice, sorghum, and millet. A range of forecasting models is employed to project the potential consequences of climate change. Empirical models analyze historical climate and yield trends, while mechanistic models simulate crop responses to varying environmental conditions. The integration of regional circulation models (RegCM4, WRF, ARPEGE-Climat) refines climate predictions, relying on different IPCC Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP) scenarios (RCP 2.6, RCP 4.5, and RCP 8.5). Findings indicate that under an optimistic scenario, agricultural yields may decline by 5 to 10%, whereas in a more severe scenario, losses could escalate to 40% for maize and 35% for sorghum.
To address these pressing challenges, various adaptation and mitigation strategies are proposed to bolster the resilience of the agricultural sector. Key measures include developing and adopting climate-resilient crop varieties and improved soil and water management techniques, such as agroforestry, irrigation, and soil conservation practices. In addition, strengthening agricultural policies and implementing early warning systems for climate-related risks are essential in minimizing potential losses. Technological advancements, particularly precision agriculture and artificial intelligence, are vital tools in optimizing crop management and enhancing preparedness for adverse weather conditions. Moreover, sustainable farming methods, including conservation agriculture and strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, are critical for maintaining food security in the long run. Ultimately, a comprehensive and integrated approach that combines climate modeling, technological innovation, and policy adaptation emerges as a fundamental strategy for ensuring the sustainability of Togolese agriculture in the face of evolving climate challenges.
- Introduction
Climate change is one of the most pressing challenges facing agriculture today. It is an urgent global problem characterized by accelerated changes in temperature and precipitation resulting from artificial greenhouse gas emissions.[1] These alterations in the natural composition of greenhouse gases have led to a warming of the atmosphere, resulting in regional variations in average temperature and precipitation.[2] In developing countries, where agriculture remains a fundamental pillar of the economy and food security, climate variations pose an exceptionally high risk. Rising average temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, and the increased frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts[3] and floods directly impact agricultural productivity.[4] Togo, a small West African country, is no exception to this rule. With most of the working population engaged in agriculture, climatic variations threaten agricultural yields and Togolese farmers’ food security and livelihoods.[5]
In Togo, the potential impacts of climate change manifest themselves in altered rainfall patterns, higher average temperatures, and an increased frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods. These changes directly affect the productivity of the country’s main crops, such as maize, rice, sorghum, and cassava, thus compromising national food security. However, the precise quantification of these impacts remains complex due to the variability of local conditions and the interactions between climatic and agricultural factors.
To understand and mitigate the effects of climate change on agriculture in Togo, it is essential to develop and apply robust modeling approaches. These models can quantify climate variables’ current and future impacts on crop yields and simulate various scenarios to guide adaptation and resilience strategies.[6] Empirical and mechanistic models are two of the most commonly used approaches for assessing these impacts. Empirical models rely on historical data to establish statistical relationships between climate and yields, while mechanistic models simulate the biophysical processes of crops in response to climatic conditions.[7]
In the context of Togo, where climate and agricultural data are often limited and heterogeneous, the choice of models and future climate scenarios is crucial. This article uses various modeling approaches to explore climate change’s impact on agricultural yields in Togo. Drawing on local climate and agricultural data, this article examines several future scenarios to provide accurate projections and offer recommendations for strengthening the resilience of Togo’s agricultural sector in the face of future climate challenges.
- CLIMATIC CHARACTERISTICS OF TOGO
Togo, located in West Africa between Ghana to the west, Benin to the east, and Burkina Faso to the north, has a diverse climate marked by significant regional variations. The country is generally divided into three main climatic zones. The humid tropical climatic zone is located in the southern part of Togo and is characterized by a tropical climate with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. The average annual rainfall in the main towns ranges from 800 to 1,600 mm. The first rainy season runs from March to July, followed by a short dry season from August to September. The second rainy season runs from October to November, followed by a long dry season from December to February.[8] The second zone is the tropical savannah climate zone in the country’s center, characterized by a shorter rainy season, generally from May to October, with annual rainfall varying between 1,000 and 1,200 mm. The dry season lasts from November to April.
Temperatures are higher, and rainfall variability is more significant than in the humid zone. Climate fluctuations in this zone significantly impact agriculture, mainly subsistence crops such as maize, millet, and sorghum. The third zone is the semi-arid climate zone in the country’s north, characterized by a Sudano-Sahelian climate with a single rainy season, generally from June to September, and a long dry season from November to May. Annual rainfall is low, ranging from 800 to 1,000 mm, and is often irregular. Temperatures can be extremely high during the dry season, sometimes reaching over 40°C. This area is particularly vulnerable to droughts, which can devastate agriculture and water resources.[9] The humid part of the country lies in the south, with an average annual temperature of 27°C; in the north, temperature fluctuations are more significant, ranging from 27°C to 41°C.[10]
The impacts of climate change in Togo are manifested mainly through rainfall variability, rising temperatures, the frequency of extreme weather events (droughts and floods), and changes in agricultural seasons. These climatic disturbances directly impact crop yields, food security, and the resilience of rural communities.
Agriculture in Togo is mainly rain-fed, making crop yields extremely dependent on seasonal rainfall. Climate change has disrupted traditional seasonality with extended periods of drought and irregular rainfall, affecting crop growth cycles. For example, in the north of the country, repeated droughts during the rainy season significantly reduce yields of maize, sorghum, and millet, staple crops in this region. Prolonged dry spells delay sowing, shorten the growing season, and compromise crop maturity. This results in lower productivity, exacerbating food security problems in rural areas.
Average temperatures in Togo have risen in recent decades, a trend set to continue. This rise in temperature negatively affects agricultural productivity, exacerbating soil water evaporation and increasing crop water requirements. Heat stress harms sensitive crops such as maize and rice, leading to 10% and 20% yield reductions depending on the crop and region.[11] Rising temperatures also affect livestock productivity by reducing the availability of pasture and increasing heat-related animal diseases.
Extreme weather events, such as floods and droughts, have become more frequent and intense in Togo due to climate change. Repeated flooding, particularly in low-lying areas in the country’s south, causes soil erosion, destruction of crops, and silting up of arable land. These events also damage agricultural infrastructure such as storage warehouses, irrigation systems, and rural tracks, limiting access to markets for small farmers. At the same time, recurrent droughts in northern regions are reducing water reserves and seriously affecting agricultural production. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that these droughts could reduce rain-fed crop yields by 30% by 2050 if adaptation measures are not implemented.
The cumulative consequences of climate variability, rising temperatures, and extreme weather events have led to a general decline in agricultural productivity. According to FAOSTAT, average yields of maize, one of the leading food crops, have fallen by 5% to 15% over the past two decades due to climate change.[12] This jeopardizes food security, with an increased risk of malnutrition in rural areas, where subsistence farming is the primary food source.
Climate change is also affecting the genetic diversity of crops and agroforestry systems in Togo. Studies show that some local crop species, better adapted to specific environmental conditions, are threatened by more extreme climatic conditions, leading to an erosion of agricultural biodiversity.[13] This loss of diversity makes farming systems more vulnerable to climatic stress, reducing their capacity to adapt.[14]
- MODELING METHODOLOGIES
4.1) Overview of Modeling Methods
Climate modeling is a set of scientific methods designed to simulate climate evolution as a function of various natural and anthropogenic factors. These models integrate large quantities of atmospheric, oceanic, terrestrial, and glacial data to understand past, present, and future climate systems. The methodological approach used to assess the impact of climate change on agricultural yields in Togo is based on climate and agricultural modeling. These models simulate future climate scenarios, considering current trends and historical data. Modeling methods for assessing the impact of climate change on agricultural yields fall into two main categories: empirical (statistical) models and mechanistic (process) models. These models can be integrated with climate models to simulate future conditions. Based on historical data, empirical models establish statistical relationships between climatic variables (temperature, precipitation) and crop yields. These models are often used for simplicity and low need for detailed data.[15] Mechanistic Models simulate the biophysical processes of plant growth in response to environmental conditions. They require detailed data on crop characteristics, soils, and agricultural practices.[16] It is also helpful to apply Integrated Models, which combine the outputs of climate models with crop models (empirical or mechanistic) to assess the impacts of climate change on agricultural yields.[17]
Climate modeling relies on General Circulation Models (GCMs) and Regional Circulation Models (RCMs) to assess changes in climate variables such as temperature and precipitation. Climate projections are based on the RCP (Representative Concentration Pathways) scenarios of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), including RCP 2.6 (optimistic scenario), RCP 4.5 (moderate scenario), and RCP 8.5 (pessimistic scenario).
4.2) Regional Climate Models Adapted for Togo
Regional climate models (RCMs) are essential in the current context of global warming and are increasingly used to support decision-making and identify adaptation measures in response to climate change. However, given the wide range of RCMs available, it is essential to determine the most suitable ones before carrying out climate impact studies, particularly on a small scale such as Togo.[18] In the Togo context, several regional models stand out for climate modeling. Among the most widely used are RegCM4 (ICTP Regional Climate Model), WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting Model), and ARPEGE-Climat. The RegCM4 model is often used in West Africa, including Togo, to simulate future climate conditions. It can capture acceptable climatic variations, such as monsoon patterns and convection phenomena, which are essential in this region. The model has been calibrated for the area by integrating interactions between the Atlantic Ocean and land and local effects, such as Togo’s mountains, which influence precipitation.[19] The CORDEX-Africa project uses RegCM4 to provide high-resolution (25 km) climate projections for Africa, including Togo.
WRF is another regional model widely used for high-resolution weather and climate studies. In West Africa, it is used to model the dynamics of convective rainfall systems and assess climate change’s impacts on local scales.[20] WRF has been used to analyze seasonal rainfall variability and the increase in extreme events in contexts similar to Togo’s, taking into account topography, vegetation, and urbanization. ARPEGE-Climat, developed by France Meteo, is also used in regional simulations for West Africa. It is well known for its ability to represent seasonal variability and climate change on different time scales (seasonal, decadal, etc.). In particular, this model has been used to project future trends in precipitation and temperature for water resource management in West Africa. RCM calibration for Togo involves adjusting model parameters to reflect the local climate accurately. To check accuracy, it is necessary to use local meteorological data to fit the models and validate them by comparing model outputs with historical observations.
RCMs use the outputs of Global Climate Models (GCMs) for boundary conditions, assuming that GCMs correctly capture large-scale climate trends.[21] The models assume that current climate relationships will remain valid in the future, which may not account for no-linear changes or critical thresholds.
- DATA AND APPLICATION OF MODELS TO ASSESS CLIMATIC IMPACT ON CROP YIELDS IN TOGO
5.1) Presentation of Principal Crops and Agroecological Zones in Togo
The impact of climate change on agricultural yields varies according to crops and agroecological zones. Modeling the climatic implications for crops enables us to anticipate the effects of climate change and propose adaptation strategies. Food crops are of paramount importance in Togo for economic and dietary reasons. Among these crops, maize, rice, beans, millet, and sorghum occupy a central place. Maize is the key crop for the country’s food security. It is grown in all agroecological zones and represents a significant source of income for farmers.[22] Rice, on the other hand, is grown mainly on plains and river valleys, particularly in maritime and plateau regions. The growing demand for rice justifies its selection for climatic analysis. Beans are a protein-rich legume, essential for supplementing the population’s nutritional needs. It is grown in savannah and plateau regions. Millet and sorghum are two drought-resistant crops necessary in the more arid northern zones, particularly in the savannahs. Their tolerance to water stress makes them strategic crops in the face of climate change.
Togo is divided into several distinct agroecological zones, influencing the crops that can be grown in each region. The rainforest zone (South), with its tropical climate and high rainfall, is ideal for growing corn, rice, and cassava. The plateau zone (Center), characterized by moderate rainfall, is suitable for maize, beans, and various food crops. The savannah zone (North) is a semi-arid region with less regular rainfall, making crops such as millet and sorghum more suitable.
5.2) Climatic and Agricultural Data
Climate data are essential for modeling the impacts of climate change. They include historical data and reanalysis data. Historical climate data are obtained from Togo’s National Meteorological Agency (ANAMET), including temperature, rainfall, and humidity, generally over at least 30 years. Reanalysis data, such as ERA5, the fifth generation of global atmospheric reanalysis produced by the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF), complement local observations with recalculated global climate data.[23] International and regional climate models, such as those used in the CORDEX-Africa Project, offer future climate scenarios based on different RCPs (Representative Concentration Pathways). These scenarios simulate temperature and precipitation trends under various greenhouse gas emission assumptions.[24] Regarding agricultural data, historical crop yields are derived from local sources, such as Togo’s Ministry of Agriculture, and supplemented by international databases such as FAOSTAT (Food and Agriculture Organization Statistics). Soil characteristics (texture, fertility) are derived from soil maps available through initiatives such as ISRIC-World Soil Information or local studies conducted by Togo’s agricultural research centers.
5.3) Simulations of Crop Yields in Togo Under Different Climate Scenarios
Using an approach based on integrated climate and agricultural models is essential to present simulations of agricultural yields in Togo under different climate scenarios. These models allow us to project the impact of climate change on agricultural production, considering factors such as rainfall, temperature, and extreme weather events. The climate simulations used to estimate the effects of climate change on agricultural yields are mainly based on scenarios developed by the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change). The most commonly used are the RCPs (Representative Concentration Pathways). RCPs 2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5 represent different levels of greenhouse gas emissions, from the most optimistic to the most pessimistic.[25]
RCP 2.6: The most optimistic scenario, with drastic emissions reductions, limits the global temperature rise to around 1.5°C to 2°C.
RCP 4.5: Intermediate scenario, with emissions stabilized before 2100.
RCP 8.5: The most pessimistic scenario, with steadily rising emissions, could lead to a warming of over 4°C by the end of the century.
Climate projections specific to Togo show an increase in mean annual temperatures and more significant variability in rainfall.[26] As Togolese agriculture is highly dependent on rainfall, these climate changes will significantly affect yields. The following simulations use a climate impact model such as AquaCrop, developed by the FAO, which models crop response to climate variations. The results of the projections for maize and sorghum, Togo’s main food crops, are as follows:
RCP 2.6 scenario (limited warming): Simulations show a reduction in crop yields of the order of 5-10% for maize and sorghum by 2050. Precipitation would remain relatively stable, but more frequent heat waves would affect productivity.[27]
RCP 4.5 scenario (intermediate warming): Under this scenario, crop yields could fall by 15-25% in 2050 for maize and sorghum, with more pronounced dry spells and fewer rainy days.[28]
RCP 8.5 scenario (extreme warming): This scenario projects a drastic drop in agricultural yields of up to 40% for maize and 35% for sorghum by 2050. Rising temperatures and reduced precipitation would increase the frequency of droughts and heat waves.[29]
Seasonal variability is also significant. Studies show that growing seasons could be disrupted, with a shortening of favorable growing periods, particularly for rain-fed crops. Shifts in the sowing and harvesting calendar will be necessary to cope with these changes.
Climate projections and their impact on agriculture involve uncertainties due to several factors. Each climate model has its assumptions and simplifications, which can lead to discrepancies in projections. Uncertainty is also heightened by local processes, such as the effects of topography or microclimates, which are only sometimes well represented in global models.[30] Crops can react differently to changing climatic conditions. Yield estimates are based on crop growth models that only sometimes consider the complex interactions between plants, soils, and farming practices. Climate scenarios such as RCP8.5 are based on emission assumptions that may not materialize depending on mitigation policies.[31] Farmer adaptation, technological innovation, and government support measures influence these outcomes but remain challenging to predict. It is, therefore, crucial to recognize these uncertainties when planning strategically for the future of agriculture in Togo. Climate projections are not exact predictions but guides for assessing risks and designing appropriate responses.
- ADAPTATION AND MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Climate change is a significant threat to agriculture in Togo, directly affecting food security and livelihoods. Faced with these challenges, two key strategies are needed: adaptation to cope with climate impacts and mitigation to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture.
6.1) Agricultural Adaptation
Togolese farmers depend on rain-fed agriculture and are particularly vulnerable to climate fluctuations. A range of adaptation strategies can strengthen the resilience of farms to climatic shocks. Developing and adopting crop varieties resistant to drought, high temperatures, and disease are critical adaptation measures.[32] Drought-resistant crops, such as improved varieties of maize and sorghum, enable farmers to maintain more stable yields under difficult climatic conditions.[33] These improved maize, sorghum, and rice varieties are being introduced in Togo. Research by the Institut Togolais de Recherche Agronomique (ITRA) has shown that these varieties can improve yields while reducing losses due to bad weather and pests associated with changing climatic conditions.
Sustainable soil and water management is crucial to maintaining agricultural productivity.[34] Practices such as agroforestry, mulching, and crop rotation help conserve soil moisture and reduce erosion. The “zaï” technique, a traditional system of digging small holes in the soil to capture water, has proved effective in increasing yields in semi-arid areas of Togo. In addition, drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting are techniques that can mitigate the effects of rainfall variability.[35] Methods such as organic farming and agroecology are sustainable adaptation options. They reduce the use of chemical inputs while improving soil health and biodiversity. For example, crop diversification (mixed farming) reduces farmers’ dependence on a single crop and spreads climate risks. By increasing the resilience of agricultural ecosystems, these practices contribute to better management of natural resources.
The effectiveness of adaptation strategies depends on institutional support and public policies to guide local and national actions in the face of climate change. Togo has adopted several strategies to strengthen adaptation in the agricultural sector. The National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PNA) identifies specific measures to improve the resilience of vulnerable sectors, notably agriculture. The plan encourages the use of improved crop varieties, irrigation, and the sustainable management of natural resources. In addition, the government has set up early warning systems to inform farmers of extreme weather conditions and reduce losses. Initiatives such as field schools enable farmers to receive training in best agricultural practices and to test new techniques in controlled environments. These initiatives, supported by the FAO and other partners, aim to disseminate knowledge on climate adaptation at the local level. In addition, subsidy programs for resistant seeds and irrigation technologies are being set up to reduce adoption costs for small-scale farmers. Agricultural cooperatives play an essential role in disseminating adaptation technologies. They enable farmers to share resources, access markets, and exchange knowledge. Participatory approaches, based on community involvement, facilitate the adoption of innovations and strengthen the resilience of small-scale farmers.
Technological innovation is crucial for strengthening climate change adaptation in the agricultural sector.[36] Precision agriculture uses advanced technologies such as sensors, drones, and global positioning systems (GPS) to monitor and manage crops more effectively. Soil moisture sensors, for example, optimize irrigation, reducing water wastage. These innovations, although not yet widespread in Togo, have the potential to reduce losses while increasing agricultural productivity. Climate information systems provide farmers with short- and long-term weather forecasts and advice on agricultural practices suited to the conditions ahead.[37] In Togo, mobile platforms broadcast real-time climate information to farmers, enabling them to better plan their sowing and harvesting according to anticipated weather conditions. Biotechnology, notably through developing genetically modified (GM) seeds, offers solutions for improving crop tolerance to extreme climatic conditions. Although this technology is still debated in Togo due to ethical and environmental concerns, it represents a potential option for increasing crop resilience.
6.2) Mitigation Practices
In addition to adaptation, the agricultural sector can contribute to climate change mitigation by reducing GHG emissions. Conservation agriculture involves minimizing tillage, maintaining a permanent vegetation cover, and using crop rotations.[38] It protects soils and increases soil carbon storage, thereby reducing CO₂ emissions. Conservation agriculture is already practiced in some regions of Togo, with promising results. Agroforestry, which integrates trees into farming systems, is crucial for capturing atmospheric carbon while improving soil fertility.[39] This practice also creates microclimates favorable to crop growth while offering additional income from non-timber forest products. Managing agricultural residues like crop waste and animal dung can reduce methane and carbon dioxide emissions.[40] For example, biogas production from organic waste is a solution that reduces emissions while providing a renewable energy source for rural communities.[41] In Togo, where post-harvest losses are high due to a lack of storage infrastructure, the introduction of better preservation practices, such as improved silos and drying techniques, could help reduce emissions and enhance food security.[42]
- Conclusion
Addressing the issue of the impact of climate change on agricultural yields in Togo highlights the vulnerability of this crucial sector to climate change while proposing modeling approaches and future scenarios to anticipate its effects. In Togo, where agriculture relies heavily on seasonal rainfall, climate variations such as rising temperatures, changing rainfall patterns, and more frequent extreme events pose severe challenges to food security. Climate projections based on the RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 scenarios, which envisage moderate and severe climate change trajectories, show that agricultural yields could be severely affected if adaptation measures are not implemented.
Climate modeling approaches enable us to anticipate these impacts and are essential for designing appropriate adaptation strategies. Modeling agricultural yields under different climate scenarios highlights the need for flexible solutions and local strategies to minimize losses. These models are crucial to understanding how different crops will respond to climate change and which scenarios might likely be in Togo.
Modeling tools play a crucial role in understanding the underlying physical mechanisms that govern climatic processes and their interactions with agricultural systems. Climate modeling is based on the laws of atmospheric physics and chemistry, allowing for the simulation of various future scenarios. These models incorporate key variables such as temperature, precipitation, and CO₂ concentrations, which are essential for assessing the impact of climate change on agriculture in vulnerable countries like Togo. Through these simulations, policymakers can develop data-driven strategies to mitigate the negative effects of climate change on agricultural yields.
However, it is essential to consider the uncertainties associated with climate projections and yield models. Even with advanced tools, climate systems remain complex and nonlinear, requiring real-time adjustments and the implementation of flexible adaptation strategies.
Thus, analysis of the impacts of climate change on agricultural yields in Togo, while firmly rooted in climate modeling methods, calls for a combination of science, technological innovation, and political support. The mobilization of local stakeholders, adoption of adapted agricultural practices, and strategic planning in the face of climate uncertainties are essential steps in guaranteeing food security in the coming decades.
- RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FURTHER RESEARCH
Building on the analysis of climate change’s effects on agricultural yields in Togo, several research avenues deserve further exploration to enhance understanding and improve adaptation strategies. Below are key recommendations for researchers interested in this subject.
8.1) Enhancing Climate and Agricultural Prediction Models
While regional circulation models (RegCM4, WRF, ARPEGE-Climat) provide valuable projections, their accuracy could be improved through better calibration using localized data. Increasing the resolution of climate models would help capture microclimatic variations that directly influence crop growth. Additionally, integrating empirical and mechanistic models with satellite data and artificial intelligence systems could yield more precise and region-specific predictions.
8.2) Developing Resilient Crop Varieties and Innovative Farming Techniques
A crucial adaptation strategy involves identifying and promoting crop varieties more tolerant to climate-related stresses such as drought, extreme temperatures, and plant diseases. Research in this area should focus on conventional breeding techniques and biotechnological advancements to develop solutions tailored to Togo’s agroecological conditions. Furthermore, studies evaluating the effectiveness of agroecological practices such as agroforestry, soil conservation, and optimized irrigation are essential to determining the most suitable strategies for different regions.
8.3) Investigating the Interactions Between Climate Factors and Agricultural Systems
Climate change affects crop yields and the broader agricultural system, including livestock and water resource management. Adopting a systemic approach that examines the interplay between climate, soil health, biodiversity, and farming practices would allow for more refined adaptation strategies. Research should also explore how farmers adjust their agricultural methods in response to climate variability and identify barriers preventing the widespread adoption of resilient practices.
8.4) Developing Decision-Support Tools and Early Warning Systems
Anticipating climate risks requires strengthening decision-support tools for both farmers and policymakers. Incorporating seasonal climate forecasts into accessible digital platforms could significantly enhance farmers’ ability to prepare for and respond to changing conditions. Additionally, improving early warning systems for extreme weather events such as droughts and floods would help reduce exposure to crop losses and economic instability.
8.5) Expanding Socioeconomic Studies on Climate Change’s Impact
The consequences of climate change extend beyond crop productivity, affecting farmers’ incomes, food security, and rural migration patterns. In-depth socioeconomic research would provide valuable insights to inform public policies and guide investments toward solutions that align with local realities. Examining the financial resilience of farming communities through income diversification, access to agricultural insurance, and improved market access could offer new pathways for strengthening their adaptive capacity.
8.6) Strengthening Collaboration Between Researchers, Institutions, and Local Stakeholders
Given the multidimensional nature of climate change, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between climate scientists, agronomists, economists, and sociologists would lead to more comprehensive analyses and well-rounded solutions. Moreover, involving local communities in research-action initiatives would ensure adaptation strategies’ adoption and long-term success.
By pursuing these research directions, scientists can deepen their understanding of the complex interactions between climate and agriculture in Togo while developing actionable solutions to enhance the sector’s resilience against future climate challenges.
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