The Contribution Of Small Scale Crop Pruduction On Household Food Security In Ward 9, Mberengwa · Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Author

Zhou, Richard

Title

The Contribution Of Small Scale Crop Pruduction On Household Food Security In Ward 9, Mberengwa

Abstract

This study investigates the intricate relationship between small-scale crop production and household food security in Ward 9, Mberengwa District, Zimbabwe, a region facing significant food security challenges due to factors such as climate change, limited government support, and inadequate access to resources. The research aims to shed light on the factors influencing food security outcomes for smallholder farmers in this context, specifically exploring how they navigate these challenges to ensure food availability, access, utilization, and stability. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative and qualitative data collection techniques. Quantitative data on factors such as land size, crop diversity, input access, labor availability, market access, and income were collected through a structured questionnaire survey of a representative sample of smallholder farmers. Qualitative data on the subjective experiences, perceptions, challenges faced by these farmers were gathered through semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. The quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential tests, while qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring themes and patterns. The study revealed a complex interplay between small-scale crop production and household food security. While a significant number of farmers cultivate a wide variety of crops, contributing to dietary diversity, the study also highlighted critical challenges. A substantial proportion of farmers lacked access to government or non-governmental organization funding, limiting their ability to invest in inputs and technologies. Additionally, educational attainment, while generally positive, demonstrated a need for further agricultural training and extension services. Despite the importance of small-scale farming, food shortages persist, both occasionally and frequently in some households. Furthermore, limited market access, exacerbated by inadequate infrastructure, hindered smallholder farmers' ability to generate income and secure sustainable livelihoods. This study underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions that address the specific challenges faced by smallholder farmers in Ward 9. The findings highlight the importance of promoting sustainable agricultural practices, improving access to finance markets, investing in rural infrastructure to enhance food security and livelihoods for smallholder farmers. The study recommends promotion of land rights for women,targeted training and extension services, access to credit financial services, fair equitable input distribution, strengthening of women's voices in decision making, intergenarational knowledge transfer, youth engagement in agriculture, tailored support for older farmers, age specific training information, infrastructure development, climate smart agriculture, market access and value chain development, collaboration and partnerships. By implementing these recommendations, policymakers, development agencies, other stakeholders can contribute to a more resilient equitable food system that empowers smallholder farmers and enhances food security in Ward 9, Mberengwa District, beyond.

Date

JUNE 2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Small Scale Crop Production, Food Security, Mberengwa

Supervisor

Dr Musarandega