Urban food insecurity and its determinants among migrant households

Abstract

This study utilized the Linear Probability Model to examine the determinants of food insecurity among migrant households in the Gauteng City region of South Africa. 13,616 households were selected using random sampling and a cross-section design. The study findings showed that age and level of education reduce the probability of skipping a meal among internal and international migrant households. Having medical aid is negatively associated with food insecurity – a sign of affordability. Part-time jobs increase the likelihood of experiencing food insecurity for both internal and international migrants. Access to indigency and government support were associated with a higher probability of food insecurity among international migrants. Government support in food parcels is also associated with food insecurity for internal migrants. In contrast, ethnicity has no statistically significant effect on food security for internal migrants relative to native residents. Policy focus on inclusivity in social service provision, employment access and urban agriculture can likely help improve the food insecurity status of internal and international migrant households in the Gauteng City Region.