Disparities and determinants of Somali refugee food security in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

• Most Somali refugee households in Eastleigh, Nairobi, report that their food security situation has improved compared to conditions in Somalia. However, almost 40% of households are severely food insecure. • Food security generally improves over time for Somali refugees as they acclimate to their new environment, though recent migrants face heightened risks of food insecurity. • Key factors influencing food security include household income, the education level of the household head, employment status, and gender. • There are important spatial disparities within the Eastleigh district, with different sections showing varying levels of food security, dietary diversity, and household income. • While many households receive remittances, the paper finds no significant impact of remittance receipt on food security; however, food-secure households are more likely to send remittances to Somalia.