Archives of Current Research International

Agriculture in Niger’s Sahelian zone is highly exposed to climate variability, particularly changes in rainfall timing and temperature. This study examined changes in agricultural practices in the Maradi Region between 1990 and 2020 and assessed farmers’ perceptions and adaptation responses. Data were obtained through 160 questionnaires, 16 focus group discussions and group interviews in 16 villages across eight communes. Daily rainfall records for 1990–2020 and temperature records for 1990–2019 were analysed using the Lamb standardised anomaly index in Excel and InStat Plus. Mixed cropping increased across the four departments and was most prevalent in Guidan Roumdji in 2020, accounting for 51.16% of cultivated land. Monocropping declined and disappeared in some departments, whereas intercropping increased in Dakoro, Guidan Roumdji and Madarounfa. Organic manure, particularly manure from small ruminants and cattle, remained central to soil fertility management, while compost and inorganic fertilisers, including NPK and urea, were also used. Although rainfall totals generally increased over the study period, farmers reported persistent irregularity and a shorter rainy season, while temperature records showed an overall upward tendency. These climatic changes affected sowing, weeding and harvesting and reduced agricultural production. Farmers responded by adjusting sowing periods, changing crop varieties, diversifying cropping systems and modifying soil fertility management. The findings indicate that agricultural practices in Maradi are evolving in response to interacting climatic and demographic pressures.