Examining the Effects of Drought on Food Security: A Case Study of Chongwe District

Drought is a critical environmental issue with far-reaching effects on food security, especially in regions reliant on rain-fed agriculture. This study investigates the impacts of drought on food security in Chongwe District, Zambia. The key objectives were to examine how drought affects household food security, assess its socio-economic and cultural impacts, explore coping mechanisms, and evaluate the effectiveness of government mitigation measures. Using a mixed-methods approach, data was collected through surveys, interviews, and secondary sources to provide a holistic understanding of the issue. The findings revealed that droughts have significantly reduced maize yields, exacerbated food shortages, and increased reliance on external food aid. Socially, drought has disrupted traditional practices and intensified gender inequalities, as women bear the brunt of resource management. Economically, households have suffered income losses and resorted to selling productive assets. Coping strategies, including crop diversification and reduced meal frequency, were found to be insufficient in mitigating food insecurity. While government initiatives, such as irrigation schemes and cash transfer programs, have shown promise, their effectiveness is hindered by delayed implementation, inadequate funding, and limited coverage. The study concludes that addressing food insecurity in Chongwe requires integrated approaches, including expanding irrigation infrastructure, enhancing social safety nets, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. Recommendations emphasize the need for timely delivery of resources, increased support for drought-resilient crops, and improved policy coordination to mitigate the adverse effects of drought.