Abstract:
This dissertation describes a study undertaken in Limpopo Province and is based on the
LADEP Project which was created through an established working partnership of the
Finnish government and LDA extension services. The study aimed to assess the impact
of women food security projects on household food security. For many poor people
globally, in particular in sub-Saharan Africa, food security continues to be a challenge
today. The poverty levels and increase in the prevalence of the HIV/AIDS pandemic,
reduced rainfall accompanied by changing climatic patterns, environmental degradation,
the complexities associated with urbanization, globalization as well as technology shift
in the agricultural sector and capitalistic market economies all play a role in the food
security crisis.
The study investigated the dynamics of food security in two villages in Limpopo
Province: Jopi and Ntsako. This research has highlighted some of the factors that
influence food economy and food security of poor rural dwellers. Achieving household
food security for poor rural households requires an integrated approach in terms of
poverty eradication as well as deliberate efforts with regards to food production and
distribution within a framework of ecological integrity, with an aim of empowering the
poor and ensuring that their household food security is guaranteed. The basic finding,
and the one which impacts directly on the household food security of Jopi and Ntsako
projects is that the majority of the people in these village depend on government
grants, and are therefore classified as poor. However, as a survival mechanism, some
women with experience in agriculture have resorted to farming, as well as initiating
group farming projects to improve their socio-economic situation. Given the threats to
sustainability of these projects, the study recommends that the government to mobilize
financial resources to support the activities of these projects. There is also an increased
demand for more training on various aspects of management and production for
members to maximize output. The study also identifies the significance of a continuous
monitoring and evaluation of projects on a regular basis.
