EFFECTS OF COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON FOOD SECURITY AND HOUSEHOLD LIVELIHOODS IN KENYA

Abstract

This paper aims to contribute to the understanding of the resultant effects of the new Coronavirus which is known to cause a Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome in humans (SARS-CoV-2 better known as COVID-19) on food security and household livelihoods in Kenya. This is achieved by providing a comprehensive literature review on past global epidemics, pandemics and natural hazards and disasters; and their effects on food security and household livelihoods. The study reviews articles and reports that have widely discussed the effects of other epidemics that have occurred in contemporary times on food security and household livelihoods. The selection of the materials used in the study was based on authenticity and relevance. The observed impacts of the coronavirus pandemic and previous epidemics, pandemics and natural hazards and disasters call for policy measures to curb future occurrences. Countries' preparedness for pandemics is crucial to prevent adverse economic effects and loss of human lives. There is also a need to put in necessary measures to ensure the sustainability of resources, strengthen infrastructure and food systems to avoid or minimize food crises in the future.