Uncovering the drivers of food insecurity in Cameroon: insights from a nationwide cross-sectional analysis

Abstract

Background Despite global efforts to achieve zero hunger, food insecurity remains a critical challenge in several African countries, including Cameroon. This study aims to identify sociodemographic predictors of food insecurity across Cameroon through a comprehensive, nationwide cross-sectional analysis. Methods Data for this study were drawn from the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey (CDHS). Food insecurity levels were evaluated using the Food Insecurity Experience Scale (FIES). To estimate the probabilities of moderate and severe food insecurity among different sociodemographic groups, logistic regression models were applied, with results expressed as average marginal effects (AME). Results The findings reveal that approximately 24.86% of participants experienced moderate food insecurity, while 28.96% faced severe food insecurity. Among men, the proportion experiencing severe food insecurity was 38.8%, compared to 24.3% for women. Multivariable regression analysis showed that severe food insecurity was less likely among women [AME = 0.84, 95% CI = 0.83,0.86], Muslims [AME = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.90,0.93], individuals with higher education levels (secondary education: AME = 0.93, 95%CI = 0.90,0.95; higher education: AME = 0.87, 95%CI = 0.85,0.90), those owning land (either alone or jointly) [AME = 0.92, 95%CI = 0.89,0.96], wealthiest households (moderate food insecurity: AME = 0.91, 95%CI = 0.88,0.93; severe food insecurity: AME = 0.73, 95%CI = 0.70,0.75), female-headed households [AME = 0.97, 95%CI = 0.96,0.99], and rural residents [AME = 0.97, 95%CI = 0.95,0.98]. Conclusions These findings underscore that food insecurity affects a substantial portion of the Cameroonian population, with certain sociodemographic groups more vulnerable than others. This study proposes targeted policy recommendations to address food insecurity in Cameroon, including social assistance programs for at-risk groups, investments in socioeconomic empowerment, improvements in agricultural productivity, and ongoing research to guide evidence-based interventions.