Livestock for household food security-A case study of small-scale mixed farmers in semi-arid Nyakach, Kenya

Abstract

This paper considers both direct and indirect contributions of livestock to food security in semi-arid parts of Nyakach. Livestock production is a major component of the agricultural economy of developing countries and goes well beyond direct food production. Sales of livestock and their products provide direct cash income to small-scale farmers. Livestock are the source of income for many farmers and have a critical role in the agricultural intensification process through provision of labor on farm, fuel and manure. Livestock ownership also contributes toward farming and economic stability through food production. The meaning of food security has evolved since the first World Food Conference of 1974. It is now generally accepted that it relates to access by all people at all times to enough food for an active healthy life (Reuntlinger, 1985; World Bank, 1986; FAO, 1989). At household level, food security is equated with sufficiency of household entitlements that include food production resources, income available for purchases, gift and assistance sufficient to meet the aggregate needs of all household members. Various constraints are faced by small-scale farmers to achieving full potential of livestock sub-sector. However, livestock contribute to food security through increased output of livestock and nonlivestock products and by employment and income generation that may assure access to food.