Strategies for enhancing the role of women in household food security in Busia County, Kenya

Abstract

Globally, women’s contributions to household food security are still a challenge. Enhancing food security requires putting in place strategies that can help in the enhancement of household food security by including women in such initiatives. The study evaluated strategies for enhancing household food security in Busia County, Kenya. The study used descriptive survey and evaluative research designs, employing quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Sampling strategies used included multi-stage, quota, purposive, and simple random. The sample size for the study was 384 household heads. Data was collected using questionnaires, FGD guides, and KII guides. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences software, and qualitative data was transcribed and entered into NVivo software for analysis. The findings of the study revealed that women play a critical role in household food security, yet their contributions often remain undervalued and constrained. Additionally, women faced significant barriers, particularly limited access to land, credit, and decision-making power. While they contribute substantially to household food production and consumption, their roles are often marginalized. The study concluded that the greatest challenge women faced in food security was inadequate collateral to access credit and not owning land for production. The study recommended the need to establish or strengthen institutional structures/systems that will deliberately include women in intervention since related challenges are multi-dimensional.