Tribes Perception for Agriculture and Rural House Hold Food In-security in Kelafo Woreda, Gode Zone in Somali Region

Abstract

Present study is on the rural household food in security in the Kelafo woreda of Somali Regional State of Ethiopia. Situated on the Eastern tip of the country, the area has tough arid climate, almost flat terrain with extremely sparse population and a predominant pastoral economy. Food security is an acute problem in this highly remote and politically sensitive region close to Somalia.  The area suffers with acute food insecurity and so the dependency on FAO food program is very high. Factors affecting food security is the prime concern of this study. Following the FAO (2012-13) food security/ insecurity classification, the study area was divided into food secured and food in secured kebeleys.  Both random and non random sampling techniques were used for the selection of households from food secured and in secured kebeles. A descriptive survey method was used. Questionnaire, interview, field observations and focus group discussion were the main tool used for collation of information. Descriptive statistical techniques were used for the data analysis and findings were displayed by statistical diagrams. Besides being the conventional thought for food insecurity like arid climate, remote location and problem of civil unrest and security, a series of other important factors were also identified during study. Most of the respondents were formally illiterate and only 13.4 % children were going to the formal school. The food secured and in secured kebeles are distinctly different from each other in terms of their ethnic identity, economic activity and perception for the work ethics. The major cause for food insecurity were identified as tough climatic conditions, failure in utilizing their own crop and animal products, limited nonfarm activities, and increasing population pressure. Extreme dependency on the food supply is reflected as the adoption of non conventional food like Pasta, Macaroni and Burris as their staple food. Data shows that only 54% of households were self dependent for food, while rests were dependent on other sources.  The major copping strategies opted at household level were reduction in the livestock population, fishing, sale of charcoal, change in food habit, and finally outmigration. Still two fifth of total households have no option but to depend on food aid program and borrowing from their relatives. Study recommends an extensive awareness cum teaching program to natives to change their tradition mindset for tribal superiority and work ethics, and motivate for development. Promotion of formal education, setting up a marketing system for local produce and development of irrigation from Shebelle river is must for food security of the study area.

Keywords: China insurance industry, Foreign fund, Challenge