The Effect of Perceived Climate Variability on Food Security and Coping Mechanisms Among Pastoralist Household in the Borena Zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract

This paper aimed to assess the effect of climate variability on household food security status and coping mechanisms used by respondents in the selected districts of Borana. Mixed explanatory research design was applied to examine the effect of climate variability and extreme events on household food security. Data were collected from 417 sample pastoral and agropastoral households, key informants, and focus group discussion participants. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (e.g. mean, percentage) and econometric models (multivariate probit and multiple linear regression models to evaluate the effect of climate variability on household food security status). The results revealed that 77% of the households perceived an increase in temperature and 89% perceived a decrease in rainfall in recent years. The Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) result showed that about 95% of respondents experienced food insecurity. The most common coping mechanisms employed by respondents include selling charcoal and fuel wood, borrowing money from friends or family, migration, humanitarian relief, and daily labor. It appears that climate-induced food insecurity is a pervasive and serious problem in the study area over the last 20 years. Perception of the effect of temperature increase on crops and livestock has significantly increased the adoption of land contracting /leasing, adoption of selling fuel wood, and daily labor increased as a coping response to climate variability among pastoralists and agropastoralist. The perception of the impact of the decrease in annual rainfall on crops and livestock has significantly increased the adoption of borrowing from friends or families and free support of resources among pastoralists and agropastoralist. Business-as-usual perception increases the adoption of borrowing from credit unions, free support of resources, and migration. Regarding the perceived effect of food insecurity, borrowing from credit unions, borrowing from friends or families, and reduction of expenses have reduced food insecurity among pastoralists and agropastoral households. Borrowing from credit unions provides them with access to financial resources during times of need. These loans can be used to purchase food, livestock, or other essential supplies, helping families bridge the gap during periods of food scarcity. Hence, it is highly recommended to implement integrated interventions that address both household food insecurity and viable adaptation responses. These interventions should aim to mitigate the need for coping strategies and prevent maladaptation measures that lead to the depletion of assets.