Association between household food access and livelihood food strategy factors in Githunguri and Mwala sub-counties, Kenya

Abstract

Household food access is a critical concern for every government, community and household as it touches on the basic sources for human energy to do work and also for survival. Access to food is an essential component of good nutrition, health and well-being. Knowledge of food access risk sources and coping strategies can contribute to forward planning to avert food security hazards. This study analyzed the extent to which household food access was determined by livelihood food strategy factors employed during hazards. A sample size of three hundred and eighty four (384) was used. The study was carried out in two different livelihood zones i.e. high potential livelihood zone (Githunguri Sub-County) versus a medium potential livelihood zone (Mwala Sub-County). Household data were collected within two seasons using a structured household questionnaire. In addition, focus group discussions with a group of men, women and the youth were also conducted in each of the sampled sub-location. Data were analyzed using SPSS statistical data package for social sciences version 17. Pearson correlation index on factors that influence food access indicated a strong and significant relationship in total HH income (.718), total food available (.631) and HH storing ability (.545). There was a weak relationship in distance from household to the local market (.029) and household food strategy (.009). The study concluded that households in Githunguri Sub-County were mildly food insecure while households in Mwala Sub-County were moderately food insecure, implying that households in Githunguri Sub-County had better food access than households in Mwala Sub-County. The study recommends two studies that include: (i) Determination of opportunities and constraints to optimal income generation for improved food access (ii) Opportunities and constraints to increased food production hence food access

Key words; Food security, Food access, Hazards, livelihood strategies, Food strategy factors