The Influence of Consumption-Based Food Resilience Strategies on Livelihood Outcomes among Farming Households in Makueni County, Kenya

Abstract

Consumption-based food resilience strategies (CBFRS) are commonly employed by households in semi-arid regions to cope with recurrent food shortages. This paper examines the adoption and influence of CBFRS on livelihood outcomes in Makueni County, Kenya. A sample size of 399 rural households was drawn from three sub-counties (Mbooni, Makueni and Kibwezi West) through multistage sampling, comprising stratified, purposive and simple random sampling techniques. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design to meet the research objective. Data was collected through structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and direct observations and analyzed using descriptive and regression analysis. Results showed that households employed variable consumption-oriented strategies to manage food availability and access during times of stress or scarcity. CBFRS such as meal reduction, food substitution, rationing and preservation were practiced, particularly during droughts. The study findings revealed a moderate adoption of CBFRS (M = 3.011) in Makueni County The regression results revealed a statistically significant negative association between the adoption of consumption-based FRS and overall livelihood outcomes (b = -0.269, p < 0.001)), suggesting that CBFRS are largely coping mechanisms rather than proactive resilience measures. While CBFRS provide temporary relief, they compromise nutrition and long-term well-being. Constraints such as water scarcity, financial limitations, and lack of awareness further hinder effective CBFRS adoption are CBFRS are not productive but coping mechanisms amidst food stress; hence, they can erode food system resilience The paper recommends targeted interventions to reduce reliance on CBFRS by enhancing institutional and farm-based strategies.