The level of food insecurity among urban households in southern Ethiopia: A multi-index-based assessment

Food insecurity is a growing concern worldwide, particularly in urban areas of developing countries. However, it is a problem that is less discussed in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study has aimed to assess the level of food insecurity among urban households that benefit from the urban productive safety net program. The study included 310 household heads selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. A survey questionnaire, focus group discussions, field observation, and key informant interviews were used to collect data. Descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze the collected data. The multi-index approach was used to assess the level of food insecurity among households. The results showed that nearly 89% had varying levels of food insecurity. The study also revealed that the majority of households consumed vegetation (79.7%), roots (76.5%), cereals (74.8%), fruits (68.4%), and pulses (53.5%). On the other hand, a lower proportion of households consumed fish (2.3%) and meat (14.8%). The chi-square result shows that cereals, pulses, fruits, and meat were significant at P < 0.01, respectively. Milk and milk products, oil or butter, sugar or honey, and coffee or tea were statistically significant at P < 0.00. This indicates that there are meaningful associations between the consumption patterns of different food groups and the variables being investigated in the study. We recommend categorizing households based on the severity of food insecurity. This will enable policymakers and organizations to tailor their support mechanisms to address the specific needs of each category more sustainably, enabling the victimized households to be self-sufficient.