Determinants of gender differences in vulnerability to shocks among pastoralist households in Yabelo Woreda of Oromia, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study aims to address the increasing occurrence of climate and conflict shocks, and gender-based inequalities that contribute to differential household vulnerabilities. It examines gender-based inequalities in exposure, sensitivity, and adaptive capacity, and identifies factors affecting household vulnerabilities in Yabelo Woreda, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. The research was conducted under a pragmatist paradigm, adopting a mixed-methods approach with a convergent parallel design, where data was collected from 330 households through surveys administered via the Kobo Toolbox platform—recognized for its reliability, efficiency, and ability to enhance data quality—alongside focus group discussions and key informant interviews. The research employed a Livelihood Vulnerability Index (LVI) and LVI-IPCC approach in measuring household vulnerability, and an ordered probit model in examining determinants of vulnerabilities. The results revealed statistically significant gender disparities, where female-headed households reported higher vulnerabilities in various aspects. The results signified that female-headed households reported lower adaptive capacity. Moreover, female-headed households reported higher exposure to various conflict shocks than male headed households, including displacement (32% vs. 24%), injury or death (36% vs. 28%), and loss of properties (32% vs. 25%) all of which are statistically significant. The results revealed inequalities in social capital, where female-headed households reported lower participation in community organizations (11% vs. 22%) and institutional involvement (65% vs. 71%). The results from the ordered probit model revealed that socio-demographic factors, asset access, and social networks significantly influenced household vulnerabilities. The research concludes that gender-responsive policies, focusing on improving female education, resource access, and social capital, are crucial in enhancing resilience.