Bishop, David, 2013, Evaluation of food security and strengthening livelihood options (Zimbabwe), Final evaluation, OXFAM

2.4 APPROACHES TO ENHANCE LIVELIHOODS, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

2.4.4. Improving food security through enhancing livelihoods of people dependent on IE

Recommendation: 3. Design detailed and statistically valid surveys in order to assess food security, food consumption and dietary diversity of project participants. Only in this way it would be possible to compare new life-styles with those of the rest of population (not involved into the project).

Reference: Bishop, David, 2013, Evaluation of food security and strengthening livelihood options (Zimbabwe), Final evaluation, OXFAM, Oxford.

Evidence sample: the evaluation shows that three separate sections of a survey allowed assessment of the project’s impact on food security, food consumption and dietary diversity (a key objective of the project was to increase food security among supported households).

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2.4 APPROACHES TO ENHANCE LIVELIHOODS, EQUITY AND INCLUSION

2.4.11. Strengthening IE with attention to general or other specific vulnerable groups

Recommendation: 2) When providing vulnerable households with tools and useful assets to enhance their livelihoods, spend time and resources to ensure high-quality material and to support receiving persons in properly handing the new tools.

Reference: Bishop, David, 2013, Evaluation of food security and strengthening livelihood options (Zimbabwe), Final evaluation, OXFAM, Oxford.

Evidence sample: the evaluation mentions a previous Oxfam study (conducted in June 2009) that pointed out how many of the more vulnerable households in the project areas had sold their livestock in exchange for food and other services. The project set a provision of livestock, aimed to support the rebuilding of livelihood assets through the distribution of fast-breeding small ruminants, such as goats and chickens. Livestock fairs were held in each ward, and each selected household was given a voucher that could be exchanged for an animal. Veterinary specialists were on hand to check the health of the animals prior to purchase, and recipients were trained in basic animal husbandry practices, including breeding, nutrition, disease control and housing. Those receiving livestock were also trained on how to integrate the livestock system into the agricultural system, such as the use of animal manure to improve soil fertility.  Further support was provided, including the supply of veterinary kits, drugs and information, education and communication materials.