Socio-economic Vulnerablity Assessment Approach and Households’ Resilience Among Usaid Nutrition Projects, Isiolo County, Kenya

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the correlation between socio-economic vulnerability assessment approaches employed by USAID projects on household resilience, using the USAID Nawiri project—the largest multi-dimensional development initiative in Isiolo County—as a case study. Despite the significant positive impacts of USAID projects in regions like Isiolo, the cessation or withdrawal of USAID funding often results in beneficiaries reverting to their prior vulnerable state, increasing dependency on aid and reducing household resilience. This highlights the need to implement sustainable strategies that strengthen household resilience, even in the face of numerous shocks and stresses. The research was guided by four main objectives: to assess the influence of household income on household resilience among USAID Nutrition projects in Isiolo; to evaluate the influence of household assets on household resilience; to examine the influence of social services on household resilience; and to analyze the influence of food security on household resilience among USAID Nutrition projects in Isiolo. The study targeted 385 respondents from the USAID Nawiri project, achieving a response rate of 83.9%. A descriptive survey design was used, and two structured questionnaires were administered: one for project staff, PREG partners, and the County Steering Group, and another for community project participants. Data analysis revealed a regression value of 0.742, indicating a strong positive correlation between the independent variables and household resilience. The coefficients of determination showed that all four independent variables—household income, household assets, social services, and food security—were statistically significant predictors of household resilience, with p-values below 0.05. The findings highlighted food security as the most significant factor influencing household resilience in Isiolo. Households with reliable access to adequate and nutritious food were found to be better equipped to withstand shocks and stresses, emphasizing that food security is essential for overall household resilience. A significant portion of household income and assets is typically directed toward food purchases, underscoring the centrality of food security. Additionally, access to and effective use of social services—including healthcare, education, agricultural extension services, and financial services—were closely linked to food security. The study recommends that the USAID Nawiri Project and other development initiatives prioritize strengthening food security, particularly in ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) counties, as this will establish a critical foundation for other interventions aimed at enhancing household resilience.