The Role of Public Assistance in Improving Food Security During Covid-19 in Togo

Abstract

This paper provides insights into the potential implication of public assistance on food insecurity in the Togolese population during the Covid-19 period. The Oaxaca–Blinder Non-Linear decomposition technique and binary logit model were applied to Data of Round 8 of Afrobarometer of Togo. The empirical results reveal that women were more food insecure in Togo during the Covid-19 period. This particular vulnerability of women was explained by the difference in economic resources, place of residence, and response measures put in place by the State. However, the public assistance received has helped to reduce the gaps observed in food insecurity. The study reveals the importance of public assistance measures, especially those based on gender, during shocks that may occur in an economy.