Assess the level and the determinants of household food security in Togo: The food expenditures approach

Abstract

This paper assesses the level and the determinants of household food security in Togo using Unified Questionnaire on Basic Indicators of Well-Being. Data were analyzed using the Forster-Greer-Thorbecke estimation method and logistic regression. Results show that the incidence of food insecurity in Togo is 59%. This incidence is 67% in rural areas against 53% in urban areas. Being literate, household size, access to health services, proximity to the market and food price shock are the determinants of household food security status in Togo. Therefore, to effectively address the food security problem in Togo, food pricing and decent employment creation policies should be considered to improve household income. Family planning policies are also important to promote. All these policies must take into account the most vulnerable and marginalized groups such as the poor, rural residents and women.