Village Savings and Loans Association Activities And House Hold Food Security: A Case of Kole District

Abstract

Background: Food insecurity still remains a challenge to many households in Uganda. The study examined the relationship between VSLA activities and household food security in Kole District. Specifically, the study examined the effects of VSLA on household food Availability, established the contribution of VSLA on the household food Access, and determine the effects of VSLA on household food Stability. Method: The study adopted a cross-sectional study deign, which employed a mixed method approach of both quantitative and qualitative methods. The study population consisted of 252 which included district and sub-county officials, VSLA leaders, and VSLA members. Simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling, was used to select a sample size of 148 participants. The researcher used self-administered questionnaires to collect quantitative data, interview guide and focus discussion guide to collect quantitative data. Descriptive statistics (mean, and standard deviation), and inferential statistics (correlation and regression) were used to analyze numerical data. Content analysis was quantitative data from interviews to supplement quantitative data. Finding: The findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between VSLA activities and household food security. The study also revealed that VSLA activities had a significant effect of food availability (β=0.721, P<0.05), food accessibility (β=0.609, P<0.05) and food stability (β=0.761, P<0.05). Conclusion: The study concludes that VSLA activities and household food security in Kole District. Therefore, for improved household food security in Kole District. Therefore, for improved household food security, Kole District Local Government is encouraged to mobilize local community to join VSLA so that they can be in position to access affordable capital to increase their level of production. Keywords: Village Savings, Loans Association Activities And House Hold Food Security