People’s Perception of Climate change, climate variability, and Coping Strategies in South Sudan: The Case of Sudd Wetland

In this study, coping mechanisms and instrumental records were used to examine people's perceptions of climate change and variability. Data from 387 individuals were gathered by questionnaire. Furthermore, six focus group discussions were organised. Gridded data on temperature and precipitation were gathered from four stations between 1979 and 2014. The metrological parameters, including temperature and Sun heat periods, were measured and compared with the perception of the residents during the settlement in the 1920s. The perception result showed that both the minimum and the maximum temperatures were changing and rising. .99.5% of respondents reported an increase in solar heat and variability in the onset and cessation of rains, while 51% of respondents said the climate was unpleasant. As a result, we accept the alternative hypothesis, H0 = 0, which states that the residents of the research area were aware of climate variability and change, and reject the null hypothesis, H0 = 0. The Standard Precipitation Index showed that there were more dry spells than wet ones. The results of the Chi-square test showed a strong correlation between coping mechanisms and perceptions of variability and climate change. According to the study's findings, humans have primary and supplementary coping mechanisms for dealing with climate fluctuation and change. In addition to planned adaptation based on current local coping techniques, the study advises policymakers and development partners to establish climate-smart Agriculture solutions that are suitable at the Payam level.