Food security, where is thy fifth dimension? A comparative analysis of
the four dimensions food security framework from the lens of West
African smallholder farmers
Abstract
This study consists of a comprehensive literature review and a
qualitative field research to gather empirical data through key
informant interviews and focus groups. Using both scientific and
indigenous methodologies the study assessed the suitability of the FAO
inspired four dimensions food security framework smallholder farmers in
Kasem-speaking people in contiguous communities between northern Ghana
and southern Burkina Faso. Indigenous methodologies included gathering
of wise sayings, proverbs, poems, songs, and riddles. The use of
indigenous methodologies was justified because the analysis of Kasem
proverbs, expressions and songs give insights into the deeper meanings
of cultural concepts and images, which inform their daily practices
(Cassiman, 2006). Appreciative Inquiry technique of data collection was
used, as it builds on the strengths of the existing system and also
emphasizes the practical use of the results of research (Wilson, 2008).
Scientific methodologies are inadequate for accessing knowledge in the
metaphysical realm which is a key aspect of the worldview of indigenous
people. Privacy of participants and confidentiality of information was
protected throughout the research. To further protect the
confidentiality and also obviate the need for documentation of names of
study participants, the study opted for verbal informed consent and
assent instead of written. Verbal consent was obtained from participants
before interviews were conducted. Identification numbers were assigned
to transcripts for organizational purposes only; to indicate the data
source category and date. Any potential research participants who chose
not to participate, or withdrew their participation during the
interview, were cordially thanked for their time and excused. Though a
purely qualitative study, data were analysed quantitatively to generate
graphs and tables to assess the distribution of opinion on key variables
while verbatim quotations were used to support the quantitative
information.