Food Insecurity in the Sahel Strip and Permanent Food Assistance in Chad: Analysis from Bahr El Gazal Province

Abstract

Bahr el Gazal Province is a semi-desert area located in northwestern Chad in the Sahelian strip. The population of Bahr El Gazal province, which is predominantly rural, derives most of its survival from agro-pastoral activities. The province has faced recurring food insecurity since the 1970s. The objective of this study is to identify the factors of food insecurity and the low involvement of vulnerable populations in the sustainability of the gains made by development projects in favor of food security. The methodological approach adopted is based on documentary research and a field survey carried out on a sample of 154 people supported by the World Food Programme through the national NGO AIDER (Association for the Support of Rural Development Initiatives). In addition, there are direct observations in the field and interviews with administrative, associative and religious authorities in the Province. The results of this study show that the Government of Chad and its partners prioritize the Sahelian strip in the national response plan (NRP) each year in support of vulnerable populations affected by food insecurity, in order to mitigate the effects of possible shocks. However, this permanent food assistance pushes these vulnerable populations not to sustain the works and activities put in place by development projects to combat food insecurity in the province of Barh El Gazal.