Sorghum in semi-arid tropics : Climate change impacts and adaptive strategies with agronomic perspectives

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is a critical food and fodder crop in the semi-arid tropics (SATs), sustaining millions of smallholder farmers who face increasingly severe climate variability. While sorghum is inherently resilient to drought and heat due to its C„ photosynthesis, deep root system, and stay-green traits, projected climate change marked by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and more frequent extreme events poses significant risks to its productivity. This review synthesizes current knowledge on climate change impacts on sorghum and emphasizes agronomic and soil management strategies as the frontline of adaptation. Evidence from Africa, India, and Latin America shows that practices such as adjusting sowing dates, intercropping, mulching, conservation agriculture, in-situ rainwater harvesting, and integrated nutrient management can substantially reduce yield losses under climate stress. Case studies demonstrate that farmer-led innovations like zai pits in West Africa and watershed programs in India significantly enhance resilience and productivity. However, adoption remains constrained by socioeconomic, institutional, and cultural barriers. We argue that scaling adaptation requires integrated, farmer-centered approaches that combine scientific agronomy, indigenous knowledge, and technological tools. Strengthening sorghum-based systems is vital for food security, poverty alleviation, and climate resilience in some of the world’s most vulnerable regions.