Poverty and Food and Nutritional Security among Farm Households in Ghana
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Date
2021-05
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Abstract
This publication focuses on the intersection of poverty, food, and nutritional security among farm households in Ghana, particularly in the Guinea, Sudan, and Transitional zones. Despite Ghana's progress in reducing poverty and food insecurity, significant disparities persist across regions. The study utilizes data from the FERARI program, which assessed baseline conditions through metrics such as the Poverty Probability Index (PPI), food consumption expenditure, Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) among 1,450 farm households across eight regions.
The research reveals the critical role of farmers in the food and nutrition security of the nation, with increased agricultural productivity being a primary means to alleviate poverty and food insecurity. Key findings include the moderate to high food security and poverty prevalence among surveyed households. Household Dietary Diversity Scores (HDDS) reflect the diversity of diets, varying significantly by region and district. Families generally adopt coping strategies such as consuming less expensive and lower-quality foods to mitigate food insecurity.
Food consumption expenditure data show that households spend significantly on food, with notable regional variations. The Poverty Probability Index (PPI) indicates a substantial likelihood of poverty among farm households, with varying rates across regions and districts.
In conclusion, the study underscores the persistent challenges of food security and poverty in the surveyed areas, particularly in the North East Region and East Mamprusi District. It emphasizes the need for targeted interventions to enhance the well-being of Ghanaian farm households, with the FERARI program striving to support national efforts in this regard.
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Food security