| Abstract: |
This study investigated the role of participatory media in promoting Indigenous
Knowledge Systems (IKS) for climate change adaptation among smallholder
farmers in Benue State, Nigeria. The study was hinged on the twin theories of Uses
and Gratification and participation communication. The population of the study was
407, 640 smallholder farmers. Survey research design was considered appropriate,
while quantitative data were collected through questionnaire administered to a
sample size of 400 farmers in three selected Local Government Areas. The findings
reveal a high prevalence of IKS. Multi-stage sampling technique was adopted.
Findings show that 51.8% of farmers actively use indigenous methods for climate
prediction and adaptation. The study identified WhatsApp groups (45.8%) and
community radio (41.4%) as the most accessible and utilized participatory media
platforms. An overwhelming majority of respondents (91.7%) perceived these
media as useful tools for preserving and disseminating indigenous knowledge,
particularly for sharing weather forecasting tips (43.2%) and information on
indigenous seed varieties (33.5%). However, significant challenges persist,
including poor network connectivity (52.6%) and the spread of misinformation
(23.3%). The study concluded that participatory media serves as a vital bridge
between generations and a catalyst for community-led climate resilience by
facilitating the documentation and horizontal sharing of IKS. It recommended
targeted interventions to enhance digital infrastructure, promote media literacy, and
integrate these platforms into formal agricultural extension services to fully harness
their potential for sustainable climate adaptation in Benue State and similar agrarian
contexts. |
