The effects of climate change on the livelihood of rural women: a case study of Ilorin South, Nigeria

Abstract Background Globally, the increasing impacts of climate change continue to be seen in rising sea temperature, flooding, and fluctuation in weather patterns. Recently, the phenomenon has become a reality for poor communities whose livelihoods are being washed away by floods and children whose education is being truncated by the economic impacts of climate change. Therefore, this research aims to determine the effects of climate change on the livelihood of rural women who are said to be more vulnerable to the culminating effects of anthropogenically induced climate change disasters. To achieve the aim and objectives of this study, the research was conducted phenomenologically using questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions to access the assets required for improving the livelihood of rural women affected by climate change. Results The interpreted results of the data gathered using questionnaires showed that rural women in Ilorin South Local Government Area (LGA) of Kwara State, Nigeria, are impacted by the perils of anthropogenically induced climate change disasters that have impacts on their livelihood. These implications can be seen in the resilience of the methods used by these rural women to combat the continuing impact of climate change on their livelihood. The findings of the research also indicate that there are other factors making them vulnerable to the impacts of climate change such as lack of basic infrastructures, low capital base, and the use of crude farming methods. Conclusion From the suggestions in this study, we can conclude that climate change is already affecting the livelihood of rural women. However, a collective effort is required to implement the proactive measures required to improve rural women’s resilience to the impact of climate change on their livelihood.