Assessment of Farmers Perception about Climate Change Impact and Adaptation Strategies Use for Tomato Production in The Gambia

Tomato production in The Gambia is ranked second after onion terms of acreage among vegetables. Tomatoes are major sources lycopene, a dietary carotenoid found high concentration processed tomato products. crop vitamin AB and C also contain good amount potassium, iron phosphorus. Fresh tomatoes canned types such as concentrates puree paste increasingly demand West Africa where they form an essential part the diet. study investigated farmer’s perception about climate change impact adaptation strategies use for through survey. survey was conducted Coast Region originally known Western Division situated west near capital. Random sampling used selection farmers individual focus group discussions. findings concluded that significant number growers aware strongly believed existing. Constant increase temperature decrease rainfall, unpredictable rainfall pattern prolonged drought others served evidences. Large respondents said to have experienced effects more than five years while minority indicated 5-10years experienced. Most became know personal experience. Climate causes severe dropping flowers by rain wind rotting fruits well pest attack at reproductive stage. For case strategies, great numbers using synthetic pesticide control insect pests e.g., red spider mites, planting trees (wind breakers) reduce heavy speed application large quantity fertilizers improve soil fertility.