COVID-19 IMPLICATIONS ON FOOD SECURITY AND NUTRITION IN PERI-URBAN HOUSEHOLDS, KAMIU, EMBU COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

The study investigated the implications of COVID -19 Pandemic on Food Security and Nutrition in peri-urban households-Kamiu, Embu County, Kenya. It intended to assess the effect of movement restrictions on food security and nutrition in peri-urban households, to assess the effect of curfew on food security and nutrition in peri-urban households, and determine the effect of social distancing on food security and nutrition in peri-urban households. The study employed a quantitative approach and used a cross-sectional survey design. The sample size for the research was 285 households out of the target population of 1002 households in the Kamiu peri-urban area. A cluster sampling was employed to collect specific households, while purposive sampling was used to reach the respondents, targeting household heads. Ninety-five questionnaires were administered to households in each of the three subunits to ensure the sample was representative of the study area, using the snowball sampling technique. Data were collected using questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The analyzed data was presented in tables, figures, charts, and bar graphs. The findings revealed that food security and nutrition had been significantly affected by Covid 19 pandemic concerning measures undertaken to contain it. However, the effects were below average, as denoted 39.5%. A coefficient of Pearson correlation test indicated revealed that (r = - 0.46) an indicator that there was a negative relationship between the factors under consideration that is restriction of movements, social distancing and imposition of curfew during Covid 19 pandemic and food supply, availability, accessibility, and affordability. In collaboration with national government initiatives, the study recommends that the county government enhance social safety programs and policies like cash transfers policies, tax relief’s policy, and strategic food reserves and distribution programs to cushion the vulnerable citizens during the Covid 19 pandemic and future cases of the pandemics.