Climate change and variability is a major challenge facing smallholder farmers and adaptation is now a priority in many countries of sub-Saharan Africa. Farmers, livestock keepers, and fisher-folk living in fragile environments such as drylands and mountain areas are directly exposed to the risks associated with climate change. This is particularly true in regions that already suffer from soil degradation, water scarcity and high exposure to climatic extremes, and where poverty and hunger persist. This publication presents the findings of a project funded by the Swedish International Development Agency, aimed at strengthening the capacity of farmers to adapt to climate change through land and water management among rural communities in three countries of Eastern Africa- Ethiopia, Kenya and Tanzania. It focuses on the household level, where most adaptation and coping strategies are implemented. It stresses the importance of investing in better soil health and conservation of water, shows how income diversification contributes to enhanced resilience among local populations, and highlights the importance of strong local institutions and
community-based organization in support to climate change adaptation. Strengthening technical and institutional capacity and building resilience to climate change leads to a reduction in the exposure and sensitivity to climate risk.