Impact of climate change adaptation strategies on rural household food security in East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia

Abstract

This study examined how climate change adaptation strategies affect household food security in East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia, using data from 446 households. Adaptation approaches were grouped into farm-only, nonfarm-only, and integrated strategies, with 70% of households adopting at least one. Results showed integrated strategies yielded the highest food security gains (598.74 kcal/AE/day), followed by farm-only and nonfarm approaches. Overall, 55% of households were food secure, with the highest rates among integrated adopters. Farmers favored low-cost options like adjusting planting dates, mixed cropping, and early maturing crops. The findings emphasize promoting integrated strategies, market access, and gender equity to enhance resilience.