Climate change and households’ vulnerability in Sidama Regional state, Ethiopia

Abstract Climate change significantly threatens rural households in Ethiopia, particularly regarding increased climatic variability and livelihood vulnerabilities. This study, based on a survey of 440 households and supplemented by 30 years of climate data in the Sidama Regional State, develops a household vulnerability index that incorporates socioeconomic and environmental factors. A generalized ordered logit model is employed to pinpoint factors influencing household vulnerability, such as access to institutions, and livelihood strategies. The findings indicate that climate conditions are geographically varied, impacting vulnerability levels. The Hulla district faces higher vulnerability due to low adaptive capacity, while Gorche and Hawassa Zuria are exposed to climate risks but show lower vulnerability due to effective coping strategies. Vulnerability is driven by factors with key determinants including sex, age, household income, agro-ecological zones, productivity, and income sources. Overall, household vulnerability is influenced by climatic exposure and socioeconomic adaptive capacity, where better institutional access and resources help mitigate vulnerability. The findings highlight the complexity of household vulnerability and suggest that several interventions are required for successful resolution. Increased institutional assistance for vulnerable households, improved climate information services, and agro-ecology specific adaptation strategies are among the recommendation. This study contributes to sustainable development by supporting SDG 13 (Climate Action) and addressing livelihood and agricultural vulnerability related to SDG 1 (No Poverty) and SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) .