<p>The escalating impact of climate change on agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa particularly endangers smallholder farmers reliant on natural resources for their livelihoods. Local perceptions play a crucial role in crafting effective adaptation strategies, yet few studies have explored the socio-economic elements shaping these perceptions in agro-ecological transition regions like Mbangassina in Cameroon. This research intends to fill this void. A mixed-methods strategy (quantitative surveys, qualitative interviews, and climate data assessment) was used. The findings indicate that 97.2% of farmers have noticed climate variations over the past thirty years, defined by reduced rainfall and increasing temperatures, as corroborated by meteorological records. The analysis reveals that older age and greater annual income positively reinforce the awareness of climate change, whereas extensive farming experience lessens it. Access to microcredit and being female are linked to a diminished perception, while community involvement and residential stability boost it. In response, farmers are implementing strategies such as utilizing short-cycle varieties, altering planting dates (early or late sowing), and diversifying crops. However, the uptake of these practices varies considerably across villages. In light of these findings, adaptation policies must be differentiated: they should aim to build capacity for youth and women (who are less informed about the changes), enhance financial inclusion through suitable credit products, support community organizations, and secure land tenure to promote long-term investments. This research therefore emphasizes the necessity for customized approaches, grounded in local socio-economic realities, to translate climate awareness into resilient adaptive capacity.</p> Graphical abstract