Food Insecurity and its Determinants in Households of Ethiopia: The Case of Libo Kemkem District, Amhara National Regional State

Abstract

The existence and impact of food insecurity problem is severe in Ethiopia. The aim of this study was to estimate the food insecurity situation and identify its determinants. The study was conducted in 2014 at Libo Kemkem District of Amhara National Regional State in Ethiopia by a survey of 213 sample households. Descriptive statistical analysis and binary logistic regression were used to analyze the data. The minimum level of food expense required per adult equivalent (AE) per year was used to measure the food insecurity situation. Based on the local market, this level was determined as 2,700 Birr per AE per year. The result of the survey revealed that half of the households covering 50.7 percent were food insecure. Out of the 12 variables included in binary logistic regression model, 5 variables were found with significant impact on determining the household food insecurity situation. These variables were soil fertility problem, participation in safety net program (PSNP), age of the household head, total assets and income. Based on the study findings food security building interventions recommended focusing on statistically significant areas.

Keywords: Food insecurity, expenditure, Binary logistic, Birr, Ethiopia