Background of the Study
Effective communication is essential for disseminating information on climate change, especially in rural areas where access to formal media is often limited. In Gombe State, rural dwellers primarily rely on interpersonal communication, local radio broadcasts, community meetings, and traditional storytelling to acquire and share climate change information. These grassroots communication channels are pivotal in shaping perceptions, influencing behavioral change, and promoting adaptation practices at the local level (Abdulkareem, 2023).
However, rural climate communication faces several challenges, including low literacy rates, limited access to modern communication technologies, and cultural barriers that may inhibit the acceptance of scientific information. In response, various governmental and non-governmental initiatives have sought to enhance the reach and clarity of climate information through community-based programs, participatory workshops, and locally tailored radio programs (Ibrahim, 2024). Despite these efforts, the effectiveness of such communication strategies in engendering meaningful adaptation remains underexplored.
This study aims to appraise current climate change communication strategies among rural dwellers in Gombe State. By evaluating the methods used to disseminate climate information, the study will assess the clarity, cultural relevance, and overall impact of these strategies on community perceptions and adaptive behaviors. Combining qualitative focus group discussions with quantitative surveys, the research will offer comprehensive insights into the efficacy of existing communication frameworks. The findings are expected to inform the development of more effective, participatory, and culturally sensitive communication models that can enhance rural communities’ resilience in the face of climate change (Lawal, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Rural communities in Gombe State continue to face significant challenges in accessing and understanding climate change information due to low literacy levels, limited technological infrastructure, and cultural barriers. Although multiple communication channels exist, there is a persistent gap between the information provided and the practical adaptive actions taken by rural dwellers (Okoro, 2023).
Current strategies often rely on traditional communication methods that may not fully capture the scientific nuances of climate change. Consequently, the messages conveyed might lead to misconceptions or incomplete understanding, which can hinder effective adaptation. Additionally, the absence of systematic evaluations of these communication strategies limits policymakers’ ability to identify and address gaps in current approaches (Nwankwo, 2024). The inadequate translation of climate information into actionable practices leaves rural populations vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change.
This study seeks to address these challenges by critically evaluating the communication strategies currently employed in rural Gombe State. It will examine the channels through which climate change information is disseminated, the cultural relevance of the messages, and the degree to which these strategies influence community behavior. The outcomes of this research will provide the basis for developing improved communication models that effectively bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and local understanding, thereby enhancing adaptive capacity.
Objectives of the Study
Research Questions
Research Hypotheses
Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study focuses on selected rural communities in Gombe State, using surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Limitations include potential response biases, limited access to remote areas, and variability in local communication practices.
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