ARTYKUŁ ORYGINALNY
Livelihood Diversification and Food Security among the Marginalized Waata Community in Ethiopia
 
Więcej
Ukryj
1
Development studies, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
 
2
Center for Food Security studies, Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
 
3
Center for Food Security studies, Ethiopian Ministry of Agriculture and Adjunct Assistant Professor at Addis Ababa University, Ethiopia
 
 
Data nadesłania: 25-06-2025
 
 
Data ostatniej rewizji: 06-07-2025
 
 
Data akceptacji: 09-07-2025
 
 
Data publikacji online: 27-11-2025
 
 
Data publikacji: 27-11-2025
 
 
Autor do korespondencji
Wondimu Woldebirhan Haile   

Development studies, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
 
 
Economic and Regional Studies 2025;18(3):359-375
 
SŁOWA KLUCZOWE
KODY KLASYFIKACJI JEL
G12
 
DZIEDZINY
STRESZCZENIE
Subject and purpose of work: This study explores how livelihood diversification influences food security among the marginalized Waata community in Ethiopia, emphasizing the impact of structural and social exclusion on their pursuit of sustainable livelihoods. Materials and methods: Using qualitative methods—18 focus group discussions with Waata men, women, and youth, and six key informants interview groups with government and community leaders—the research engaged 192 participants. Results: It reveal that livelihood diversification significantly contributes to improving food security. However, persistent cultural stigmatization, marginalization, and restrictive regulatory frameworks continue to undermine the Waata community’s traditional practices and limit their full participation in economic activities which resulted in food insecurity. Conclusions: This study explores inclusive development policies that aim to preserve cultural identity, infrastructure improvement, promote equitable access to resources, access to credit and financial services. Addressing these interconnected challenges in a comprehensive and integrated manner is essential for advancing food security and sustainable livelihoods among socially excluded communities like Waata.
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