Perceived effect of rainfall frequency on food security in somali agropastoral communities

Abstract

This study investigates the perceived impact of rainfall frequency, defined as the number of rainfall events on food security in the Qulujed district, Awdal, Somalialand. Rainfall variability poses significant challenges to rain-fed agriculture, which is the primary livelihood in the region. The study employs simple linear regression analyses to examine relationships between rainfall frequency and key food security indicators including crop yield, food quality, prices, variety, crop failure rates, and fodder yield. The findings reveal a robust positive relationship between increased rainfall frequency and enhanced food security outcomes. Specifically, higher rainfall frequency correlates statistically significantly with increased crop yields (β = 0.892, p < .01), improved food quality (β = 0.777, p < .01), stable food prices (β = 1.003, p < .01), greater food variety (β = 0.831, p < .01), reduced crop failures (β = 0.881, p < .01), and increased fodder yield (β = 0.942, p < .01). These relationships underscore the critical role of consistent rainfall patterns in sustaining agricultural productivity and market stability. The study concludes that maintaining reliable rainfall patterns is crucial for mitigating agricultural risks and promoting food security in rain-fed farms like the Qulujed district. Effective climate adaptation and water management strategies are essential to ensure sustainable agricultural production and resilience against climate variability. Understanding the impact of rainfall frequency on food security variables is imperative for achieving long-term development goals and supporting global efforts to combat food insecurity amid environmental change.