Examining the Effects of Climate Change on Household Food Security: A Case Study of Choma District

This thesis examines the devastating effects of climate change on household food security in. Climate change poses significant threats to global food systems, exacerbating existing vulnerabilities. Rising temperatures, altered rainfall patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events disproportionately affect urban poor households, compromising their food security. The primary objective of this study was to investigate the impacts of climate change on household food security in Choma District. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches to provide comprehensive insights. Purposive sampling was used to select 100 households. Questionnaires were administered to collect data, which was subsequently analysed using SPSS, STATA and Microsoft Excel. The research revealed alarming correlations between climate change and household food insecurity. Key findings indicate that 75% of households experienced food insecurity, attributed to climate-related shocks such as droughts and floods. Temperature increases and rainfall variability significantly impacted agricultural productivity, leading to reduced food availability and affordability. Vulnerable households employed coping mechanisms, including diversified livelihoods and reduced food consumption. Regression analysis highlighted significant relationships between food insecurity and household size, income, education and access to climate information. The study emphasizes the need for policy interventions, including climate-resilient agricultural practices, improved water management systems and social protection programs targeting vulnerable households.