| dc.description.abstract | The question of food security has become quite critical in society because the success of
all development initiatives depends on how well people are fed It is obvious that the
good health of individuals, families, communities and societies depends on the quality
and quantity of food at their disposal. However, strategies for accessing food and those
for coping during shortage vary from one area to another and from individual/family to
the other.
This study sought to investigate and compare food security coping strategies employed
by female and male headed households in Kawangware slums, Nairobi The study was
concerned with the nature and significance of the coping mechanisms of the households
in ensuring food security.
The theoretical framework guiding the study is the Capacities and Vulnerabilities
Analysis framework (CV A), which describes the existing strengths (capacities) that
determine people's ability to cope with critical situations, and weaknesses
(vulnerabilities) that make the people more susceptible to crises. The study illustrates
important linkages between capacities and household food security coping strategies. and
vulnerabilities and food insecurity
A total of60 respondents, 30 female and 30 male household heads were randomly
selected and interviewed using structured questionnaires
The analysis revealed a wide range of factors, which affect food security coping
strategies in female and male headed households in slum areas. The study also showed
that women are increasingly taking over household/family headship, while men are
abandoning their responsibilities for yet to be established reasons.
The study recommends the creation of more income generating opportunities as a means
of livelihood for the many youth and women in order to enhance household food security
and also stem the increasing alcoholism and associated vices. | en |
