Factors Constraining Food Security In Dodoma Region: A Case Study Of Chamwino District, Tanzania

ABSTRACT

Food insecurity has been a global problem for decades. It is high on Africa‘s development agenda especially in sub-Saharan Africa. Advanced causes of food insecurity are climate change, food price increase and volatility since 2008 and poverty. Other causes are population growth, armed war and conflict, coupled by external and internal policies. This study focused on assessing factors constraining food security in Dodoma region a case of Chamwino district. The study aimed to determine social economic cultural and gender constraints to food security. The study had the following objectives one being to provide overview of food security in the study area, secondly to determine social economic cultural and gender factors that constrain food security in the district and lastly was to explore possible measures to address the situation. The study was conducted in Chilonwa and Makangwa wards of Chamwino District. 100 respondents were involved through questionnaires, 16 government officials through interviews, focus group discussions; one with women, another with men and women. Income was found to be a major constrains for smallholders‘ farmers in producing enough food due to poor utilization of improved farm inputs coupled with inadequate extension services. Lack of information and knowledge was another constraint as farmers cannot participate in various agricultural programme implemented by District. Cultural food preference and traditional festival also contribute to food insecurity.