The role of Harmonised Cash Transfer Programme among rural women in curbing household food insecurity in Zimbabwe. A case study of Makoni District (Ward 11).
- Author
- Mahlengezana, Valeria
- Title
- The role of Harmonised Cash Transfer Programme among rural women in curbing household food insecurity in Zimbabwe. A case study of Makoni District (Ward 11).
- Abstract
- This study investigates the role of the Harmonized Social Cash Transfer (HSCT) Programme in curbing household food insecurity among rural women in Makoni District, Zimbabwe. The research is grounded in the context of persistent poverty and vulnerability experienced by rural women, which limits their access to adequate and nutritious food. A qualitative research design was employed to gain in-depth insights into the lived experiences of women benefiting from the HSCT programme. Purposive sampling was used to select 22 participants, including 18 rural women beneficiaries, 2 social workers and 2 community leaders. Data was collected through in depth interviews, key informant interviews and focus group discussions using semi-structured interview guides. Thematic analysis was employed to interpret the data. Findings indicate that the HSCT programme plays a significant role in improving household food access, reducing negative coping strategies such as skipping meals and enhancing women's decision-making power regarding food purchases. However, challenges such as the insufficiency and irregular disbursement of funds limit the programme’s overall effectiveness. The study recommends increasing the transfer amount, ensuring consistent disbursement schedules, integrating complementary livelihood interventions and involving beneficiaries in programme planning and monitoring. It concludes that while the HSCT programme contributes positively to reducing food insecurity among rural women, its impact can be significantly enhanced through strategic improvements in policy and implementation.
- Date
- June 2025
- Publisher
- BUSE
- Keywords
- Household Food Insecurity
- Harmonised Cash Transfer Programme
- Supervisor
- Mrs. E. Chigondo
- Item sets
- Department of Social Work
