Transitioning from Humanitarian Aid to Sustainable Food Security and Resilience: A Case Study of Mwenezi District, Zimbabwe

Abstract

The research aimed to investigate the transition from humanitarian aid to sustainable food security and resilience in the Mwenezi district of Masvingo, Zimbabwe. The specific objectives were to assess the effectiveness of current humanitarian interventions in meeting immediate food needs, identify challenges in shifting to sustainable solutions, and explore opportunities for transitioning to sustainable approaches that address food insecurity and build resilience. Field research and data analysis revealed that Mwenezi is a drought hot spot, with the recent drought exacerbated by the effects of the El Niño weather event. Humanitarian agencies and government efforts, such as food handouts and grain distributions, were found to be primarily reactive and short-term in their approach to addressing food insecurity. The research also identified key components for achieving sustainable food security and resilience in Mwenezi: diversified and sustainable agriculture, efficient water management, strengthened local food systems, climate-smart agriculture, and social equity/inclusivity. The analysis highlighted the perceived value of sustainable solutions in addressing food security in the region, emphasizing their potential to reduce humanitarian aid costs and promote dignity among affected populations. The research concludes that policymakers and stakeholders should prioritize these components and develop targeted strategies and interventions to foster sustainable and resilient food systems. By addressing these key areas, efforts can be directed towards building a more secure and resilient food system in Mwenezi, and in other similarly vulnerable areas, ultimately improving the well-being and livelihoods of the local population