Assessment of Climate Change and Livelihood of Fisheries Communities: A Case Study of Alula District, Somalia

Climate change is one of the most recognized challenges in the 21st century, which has severely impacted fisheries communities through declining fish stocks and food insecurity. This study examined the impact of climate change on the livelihoods of fisheries communities in Alula, Somalia, using a cross-sectional research design with a quantitative approach. Questionnaires were distributed among 292 participants selected through simple random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square analysis via SPSS, version 20. The findings revealed that 51% believed that perception of a decline in fish stocks was significant. Additionally, 46% and 53% reported significant income loss and food insecurity, respectively, and enhancing climate-related information systems was the most common adaptation strategy, as indicated by 35%. A chi-square analysis (χ² = 457.020, P-value = 0.000) indicates a strong association between perception change in fish stocks due to climate change and food security status. The study concludes that the decrease in fish stocks has led to a significant amount of food insecurity, diversification of income strategies along with sustainable fishing practices, and ensuring of the resilience and sustainability of the communities in the face of climate change. Key recommendations include that they should implement target awareness campaigns on climate change perceptions affecting fish stocks and marine resources, implement sustainable food security diversifications, and establish regular climate-related information systems.