Question

This research investigates the impacts of climate change on the cultivation of sweet potato (kaukau) in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, focusing on specific physiological and yield responses of various kaukau species to changing rainfall patterns and temperature extremes. By integrating empirical data and local farmers' qualitative insights, the study aims to identify climate-resilient kaukau varieties and inform adaptation strategies to enhance food security and agricultural sustainability in the region. This study employed a descriptive survey design with a qualitative approach, using convenience sampling to engage 32 sweetpotato farmers at the Goroka Main Market through close-ended questionnaires. Data analysis involved thematic analysis, including familiarization with responses, coding, categorization of themes, and interpretation of findings to gather valuable insights about the farmers' practices and challenges.The survey results indicate a strong awareness of climate change among respondents, with 30 stating they are aware and significant concerns about its impact on kaukau production, as shown by 28 acknowledging its effects. While challenges in growing kaukau are prevalent, with 28 respondents affirming difficulties, interest in sustainable agriculture and climate change initiatives remains high, as evidenced by 26 indicating participation. However, there is a notable divide regarding the effectiveness of new farming systems and crop choice adjustments, suggesting a need for further exploration and solutions in kaukau farming practices. Farmers in Goroka, Papua New Guinea, show strong awareness of climate change and its negative impact on sweet potato yields, with no reported increases in the past 20 years. Despite this, they are willing to embrace sustainable farming, highlighting a critical need for targeted research, education, and resource support to adapt to changing climatic conditions and ensure food security.
Write it in simple English terms

Answer 1

This research looks into how climate change affects sweet potato (kaukau) farming in Goroka, Papua New Guinea. It focuses on how different types of kaukau respond to changes in rainfall and temperature. The study combines real data with thoughts from local farmers to find kaukau varieties that can withstand climate challenges and help improve food security and farming sustainability in the area.

To gather information, the study used a survey and talked to 32 sweet potato farmers at the Goroka Main Market. The farmers answered close-ended questions about their experiences with kaukau farming and climate change. The researchers analyzed the answers by identifying common themes and patterns.

The survey showed that most farmers (30 out of 32) are aware of climate change and believe it negatively affects their kaukau production, with 28 acknowledging these effects. Despite facing challenges in growing kaukau, 26 farmers expressed interest in sustainable farming practices and climate change initiatives. However, there seems to be uncertainty about how effective new farming methods and changing crop choices are.

Overall, farmers in Goroka understand that climate change is impacting their sweet potato yields, with no increases in production noticed over the last 20 years. Nonetheless, they are open to adopting sustainable farming methods. This highlights the urgent need for focused research, education, and support to help farmers adapt to changing climate conditions and ensure they have enough food.