Farmers in developing economies, often struggle to adapt to climate change and their decision to adapt usually hinges on prevailing socio-economic factors. Some of these factors are explored in this paper, using primary data from rice farmers in 138 households in Ndop, Northwest region, Cameroon. We employ the logistics regression model to investigate the factors that control farmers’ decision to adapt to climate change. Results indicate that construction and maintenance of waterways, shifting of planting dates, planting heat tolerant rice varieties and increased use of chemical fertilizers are some of the adaptive strategies implemented by rice farmers in this area. Meanwhile, access to credit and other incomes, farmers’ age, extension services and farmer groupings are some of the key factors that significantly influence farmers’ decision to adapt to climate change. In an attempt to build resilience against climate change, ensure sustainable rice production, and guarantee food security, stakeholders must take into consideration, the existing management strategies and the underlying factors influencing these strategies. The study recommends that institutional advancement is imperative to develop flexible policies towards credits accessibility for rice farmers. Meanwhile, forming associations for rice farmers and their active participation in farm maintenance could reduce vulnerability and improved extension service involving reliable Information could increase effective implementation of adaptation measures.

Keywords: Climate change, adaptation, socio-economic factors, food security, Ndop plain.