Accessibility, availability and consumption of baobab during food emergencies in Kitui and Kilifi counties in Kenya

Abstract

Baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) is an indigenous fruit tree (IFT) that grows in several dry parts of Kenya such as Kitui and Kilifi counties.  It plays a key role in dietary diversification thus contributing to food and nutrition security. This tree is adaptable to adverse climatic conditions such as droughts and floods, which are common in these counties. Consequently, it acts as a source of income and a food  buffer during disasters. This study evaluated the role baobab plays during food emergencies. The study employed a cross-sectional design where 216 household heads were interviewed through structured interviews. Data were analysed using SPSS version 24. Baobab was available during lean seasons and was used as a source of food and income. Respondents mainly consumed baobab fresh fruits without any processing (94%). During times of scarcity when there was nothing else available to eat. About 33.3% used baobab pulp to make porridge while 16.7% made a hard gruel (ugali). Drinks and candies, commonly called ‘mabuyu sweets’, accounted for 41.2% and 28.7%, respectively. In Kilifi, baobab pulp was mixed with coconut milk to be used as an accompaniment to ugali (34.3 %). About two thirds (60.7%) of the respondents collected and stored whole baobab fruits for use during lean seasons. Baobab pulp was sold by 34.7% of the respondents and the income was used to buy food (45.3 %), education (22.7%) and for healthcare (13. 3%). This study indicates
that baobab fruit and pulp was available and accessible during lean seasons. The baobab pulp was mainly consumed without any processing as a snack. It also used to make different foods at times when many other foods were not available. Households sold baobab fruits to augment their income. Promotion of baobab products could bring better incomes and improve the nutritional status of communities in baobab growing areas and helps to overcome food insecurity in emergencies.

Key words: lean seasons, baobab products, income, food insecurity, coping