The impact of COVID-19 on food security among households of Collins Chabane Municipality in Limpopo Province

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in millions of confirmed cases and numerous deaths worldwide. The food sector has also experienced increased demand due to panic-buying and hoarding of food products. This study aimed to assess the impact of the COVID-19 disease on food security among rural households in Collins Chabane Local Municipality, Limpopo province, South Africa. A cross-sectional descriptive research design was employed quantitatively. The sample size of 354 was calculated using Slovin’s formula from a target population of 3,111 households. Household selection was done through systematic sampling. Data collection was conducted using a questionnaire as the research tool. The validity of the instrument was established through face validity and content validity. Reliability was ensured through test-retest, where the questionnaire was pre-tested with 35 participants from Mabidi village, who were not included in the actual data collection. Descriptive data analysis was employed in this study. The collected data was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Ethical considerations were followed throughout the study. The results of this study revealed that the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe impact on the food procurement and supply of the respondents. Most respondents indicated that they could no longer afford to purchase food as they did before the COVID-19 outbreak. Uncertainty levels were high regarding their ability to provide food for their families. This uncertainty was exacerbated by the fact that many respondents had lost their jobs due to COVID-19. Those without a source of income were particularly affected in terms of food security. Interestingly, it was not only financial constraints but also long queues and fluctuating food prices that influenced the respondents’ buying power and food procurement.