Strategies for enhancing food security and poverty status among women food entrepreneurs in Ido Local Government of Oyo State, Nigeria

Despite global advancements, food insecurity and poverty persist as critical issues, particularly among rural women engaged in food vending.Thus, this study explores the socio-economic factors affecting food security and poverty among women food vendors in Ido Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria.Utilizing primary data collected through a detailed questionnaire from 120 respondents, this research employs descriptive statistics, the Foster-Greer-Thorbecke (FGT) index, household food security index, and logistic regression models to analyze the data.The findings indicate that 67.4% of the vendors experience varying degrees of poverty, with the majority struggling to meet basic and extended socioeconomic needs.In terms of food security, 64.8% of vendors were classified as food secure, demonstrating a capacity to meet their dietary needs effectively.Key determinants influencing both food security and poverty status included household size, income, access to credit, and cooperative membership, among others.Moreover, the study revealed that women employ multiple strategies to cope with poverty and food shortages, including diversifying income sources and engaging in both farming and nonfarming activities.Surprisingly, very few utilized credit facilities or government support, and none accessed technical assistance or training.This research underscores the need for targeted interventions to support these women, suggesting enhanced access to credit, nutritional education, and cooperative developments to improve their poverty status and food security.By addressing these issues, the study contributes to the broader goal of sustainable development in the region, providing a foundation for policy recommendations aimed at improving the livelihoods of women food vendors in rural Nigeria.