Title:
Analysis of Rural Communities' Vulnerability Toto Climate Change in The Municipality of Bassila

Authors:
KOUMASSI Dègla Hervé, Benin

Abstract:

Located in northwest Benin, the municipality of Bassila undergoes increasing exposure to climate change, characterized by rainfall variability, extended droughts, and frequent flooding. This study aims to assess rural communities' resilience to these hazards, based on a sectoral analysis of agriculture, animal husbandry, fishing, and water resources.

The research method combines a literature review, focus groups (50 participants in 4 districts), climate data analysis (1970–2023), and simulations from CMIP6 (SSP245 and SSP585 scenarios).

The results show a rainfall decrease of more than 100 mm per decade, minimal temperature increases of +1.25°C, and more extreme weather events. The agricultural sector has recorded yield losses of up to 47% for corn and 50% for yams, hitting 72% of households. Livestock farming is confronted with a decline of 40 to 60% in forage biomass, while fishing is experiencing a reduction from 15 to 45% in fish catches. At last, water availability is reduced from 40 to 70% in dry season, with water source contamination levels reaching 60% during floods. These results underscore the urgent need for integrated adaptation based on local capacity building, livelihood diversification, and inclusive resource management.

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.51505/ijaemr.2025.1401