CAPABILITY OF EXTENSION AGENTS IN DISSIMINATING CLIMATE CHANGE INFORMATION TO THE FARMERS IN GUSAU LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA ZAMFARA STATE NIGERIA BY

<p><br></p><span>The study on capability of Extension Agents in the dissemination of climate change information in Zamfara State Was conducted to a.</span><span> examine perceived causes of climate change and sources of information b.Determine availability of outreach materials for farmers on climate change adaptation. c.Investigate capacity of extension agents and constraints to building capacities for outreach d.Assess the perception of extension agents on their level of knowledge and select dissemination methods on climate change.e.Identify problems encountered by extension agents in the dissemination of climate change information to farmers.A total sample of 80 was selected divided in three wards of gusau local government </span><span>Using sample random techniques primary data was collected through a structure questionnaire administered on respondents. Data was analyzed using frequencies percentages and descriptive statistics. The major conclusion drawn from the study were presented as follows 1.Data presented regarding extension agents level of knowledge on climate change issues have shown that majority 30(37.5%)&nbsp; and 26(32.5%) reported high temperature and erratic rainfall.A total of 16(20%) and 8(10%) agreed on raising level of floods and increase in diseases.Responses recorded regarding problems encountered by extension agents in the dissemination of climate change information indicates that 19(23.7) and 16(20%) reported lack of transport facilities and lack of commitment on part of extension agents.A total of 13(16.2%) and 32(40%) reported lack of interest and non cooperation on part of farmers and lack of funds.Opinion regarding strategies to strengthen the capacity of extension agents have shown that 19(11.2%),25(31.2%) and 8(10%) revealed that to review agricultural policies,reformation of basic information and training to boast abilities of extension agents.A total of 8(10%) and 32(40%) reported provision of working materials/tools for extension service and hiring more extension personnel for greater coverage of extension message.On the basis of the above conclusions the following recommendations are made: 1.It is important to organize training sessions on climate change&nbsp; issues to boast the morale of extension agents in handling issues related to climate change in the study area. 2.NGOs should train and empower extension agents to become more capable in dissemination of climate change information to the farmers.3.Climate change&nbsp; dissemination plan should be developed together with farmers and other stakeholders for an effective information flow in the study area.4.climate change information should be based on well researched community baseline so as to address the actual problems of the community.</span>