ASSESSING THE IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON FOOD AND NUTRITION SECURITY AT HOUSEHOLD LEVEL IN GARBA TULLA SUBCOUNTY

Abstract

Purpose: To assess the Impact of climate change on food and nutrition security at household level in Garbatulla sub-county.

Methodology:The study was designed as a cross sectional survey.
Findings: The analysis of rainfall and temperatures over the region of study indicates that there has been decreasing trend of yearly rainfall and increasing temperatures. Result also revealed that the area is highly dependent on food aid which is an indication of food insecurity in Garbatulla. The analysis of nutritional status in the region remains between poor and serious, requiring adequate attention which is an indication of deterioration in nutrition. The study also found out that the respondents were using arrange of coping mechanism which are at border on survival rather than adequacy. Further, the study findings indicated a number of barriers hindering the community from consuming more nutritious foods such as fish, eggs and tubers.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: The widespread occurrence of food insecurity, the severity of the consequences and insufficient progress in reducing the numbers of the food insecure all point to the need for further urgent action. The findings of this study will come in handy by showing the extent to which climate change affects food security and nutrition. Hence, decision-makers at all levels, such as the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and NGOs, will use the study findings design effective policies and programs. The findings will also contribute to the body of knowledge in the academia and may provide insights on food security gaps for further academic research