Coping Strategies against Food Insecurity among Rural Women in Kwara State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study assessed the coping strategies used by rural women against food insecurity in Kwara State, Nigeria. A three-stage random sampling technique was used to select 120 women. Data were collected using a structured interview schedule and analysed using percentages, means, standard deviations, and multiple regression. Findings revealed that a rise in food prices ( = 4.75), low income/lack of money ( = 4.72), and large family size ( = 4.28) were the major perceived causes of food insecurity. The leading coping strategies adopted by rural women included proper storage of food after harvest ( = 3.52), purchase of cheaper and less preferred foods ( = 3.52), and reduction in food consumption during periods of scarcity ( = 3.33). Formal education (β = 0.12, t = 2.78) and annual income (β = 0.10, t = 2.82) significantly influenced coping strategies against food insecurity. The study concludes that rural women primarily rely on food preservation, dietary adjustments, and consumption-reduction strategies to cope with food insecurity. The study recommends that the government, through extension, should strengthen food storage practices, improve income-earning opportunities, and implement food price stabilisation measures to enhance household food security among rural women.