Household perceptions and socio-demographic factors shaping the effectiveness of the “One Home One Garden” food security intervention in rural Dannhauser, South Africa

Introduction This study investigates the effect of government food security interventions, with specific focus on the One Home One Garden (OHOG) programme, in Dannhauser Local Municipality, KwaZulu-Natal Province. Methods A quantitative, descriptive research design was employed. Primary data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to 104 households participating in government food security intervention programmes. The questionnaire captured demographic characteristics, farming experience, household food security status, satisfaction with programme implementation, and perceived challenges and improvement needs. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical techniques. Results The findings reveal that food insecurity remains prevalent among intervention beneficiaries. While the OHOG programme contributed to short-term improvements in household food availability, these gains did not consistently translate into sustained food access or adequate dietary utilization. Weak programme implementation, limited extension support, inadequate monitoring and evaluation, governance challenges, and insufficient community participation were identified as the main factors constraining programme effectiveness. Demographic characteristics, such as gender, marital status, educational level, and years of farming experience significantly influenced households’ capacity to benefit from the intervention. Discussion The study concludes that government food security intervention programmes, although necessary, are insufficient in isolation to achieve sustainable household food security. Strengthening governance and accountability mechanisms, enhancing extension services, adopting differentiated and context-sensitive programme designs, promoting community participation, and integrating food security interventions with livelihood and income-generating strategies are essential to improving long-term food security outcomes in rural communities.