Empowering Rural Food Security in the Eastern Cape Province: Exploring the Role and Determinants of Family Food Gardens

Yanga Nontu (), Lelethu Mdoda, Bonguyise Mzwandile Dumisa, Nyarai Margaret Mujuru, Nkosingimele Ndwandwe, Lungile Sivuyile Gidi and Majezwa Xaba
Additional contact information
Yanga Nontu: Department of Agriculture, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
Lelethu Mdoda: Discipline of Agricultural Economics, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Private Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa
Bonguyise Mzwandile Dumisa: Department of Agriculture, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
Nyarai Margaret Mujuru: Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, University of Fort Hare, Private Bag X1314, Alice 5700, South Africa
Nkosingimele Ndwandwe: Department of Agriculture, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa
Lungile Sivuyile Gidi: Department of Agricultural Economics and Animal Science, University of Limpopo (Turfloop Campus), Private Bag X1106, Sovenga 0727, South Africa
Majezwa Xaba: Department of Agriculture, University of Zululand, Private Bag X1001, KwaDlangezwa 3886, South Africa

Sustainability, 2024, vol. 16, issue 16, 1-27

Abstract: Food insecurity remains a pressing issue globally, exacerbated in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, where rural communities face significant challenges in accessing nutritious food. The Eastern Cape Province of South Africa is particularly vulnerable, with high levels of poverty and limited infrastructure contributing to food insecurity among its rural households. In response to these challenges, family food gardens have emerged as a promising strategy to enhance local food production, improve dietary diversity, and foster economic resilience within these communities. Despite the potential benefits of family food gardens, empirical evidence of their effectiveness in mitigating food insecurity at the household level in the Eastern Cape Province is scarce and remains limited. Understanding the factors that influence the success of these gardens, including socio-economic, environmental, and institutional determinants, is crucial for optimizing their impact and scalability. Hence, this study sought to comprehensively explore and investigate the role of family food gardens in improving food security within rural households in the Eastern Cape Province. It seeks to identify the determinants that contribute to the success of these gardens and their potential to alleviate food insecurity. The study made use of a descriptive research design, and the study utilized purposive sampling to gather data from 130 rural households via structured questionnaires. Data analyses incorporated in the study included the Household Dietary Diversity Score and logit regression model to explore the impacts and determinants of family food gardens on food security. The study findings underscore the significant positive contributions of family food gardens to rural communities. They serve as vital sources of fresh crops and vegetables, supplementing household nutrition and providing temporary employment. Constraints identified in the study include financial limitations, theft, water scarcity, inadequate fencing, and limited market access. The study insights highlight the fact that socio-economic and institutional factors such as age, gender, household income, and access to credit are critical influencers of family food garden success. These empirical results offer practical implications for policymakers, governmental agencies, and local communities seeking to promote sustainable agricultural practices and alleviate food insecurity. The research highlights how essential family food gardens are for improving food security among rural families in the Eastern Cape Province. The findings suggest that a joint effort is needed from the government, policymakers, NGOs, and local communities to overcome challenges and make the most of social and economic resources. By working together, these groups can enhance the role of family food gardens, making them a more effective solution for local food production and a stronger defence against food insecurity in the region.

Keywords: family food gardens; food security; fresh crops and vegetables; Eastern Cape Province; food demand; seasonal employment; sustainable strategies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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