Determinants of climate change adaptation and perceptions among small-scale farmers of Embu County, Eastern Kenya

Climate change threatens the livelihoods of millions small-scale farmers in East Africa. How perceive climate and its impacts has a strong bearing on how they adapt to adverse impacts. This paper focused factors that determine adaptation perceptions among Embu County. A survey was carried out across five sub-counties County where multi-stage sampling procedure used select 411 households. questionnaire administered each household. total FGDs were generated by use quota sampling. The data obtained from thematically analyzed while household subjected both descriptive statistics Heckman's probit model. results showed 96% respondents observed unreliable seasonal rainfall amount, distribution, increased temperatures. For instance, 23% interviewed aware long-term temperature 55% amount per season. These identified crop failure decline yields as indicators change. farmers’ corroborated Mann-Kendall trends analysis, which negative correlation temperatures 0.02°C for Kiambere 0.03°C stations. Gender significant at p<0.1 influencing farmers' perception education level social networks statistically p<0.05. Furthermore, selectivity model head access credit facility influenced choices. There is need strengthen capacities through training, provision extension services, formulation advisory committee within county government breakdown information into user-friendly.   Key words: Heckman model, variability.