Nutrition Sensitivity of Smallholder Agricultural Production in Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract Background Nutrition-sensitive agriculture is a production approach to the ensure production of a variety of affordable, nutritious, culturally appropriate, and safe foods in adequate quantity and quality to meet dietary requirements. The objective of the study was to assess the nutrition sensitivity of smallholder agriculture. Methods The study was conducted in four districts of northwest Ethiopia. Data were generated from 748 randomly sampled households using a structured questionnaire-based survey. The analysis was performed using the production diversity score and Simpson’s Diversity Index of food groups produced. A multiple linear regression model was employed to identify factors affecting the production of diversified food groups. Results The study revealed that smallholder households on average produce 6.08 food groups out of 12. The production diversity index of smallholder food production is also found to be 88.6%. Multiple linear regression analysis results, on the other hand, shows that the sex of the household head, year of schooling, farming experience, number of oxen, contact with agricultural extension worker, irrigation use, and availability of animal feed are statistical significant factors positively affecting on-farm production diversity of smallholders. Conversely, the age of the household head negatively affected production diversity. Concluding Remarks: The study concludes that smallholder agricultural production in northwest Ethiopia is nutrition-sensitive and can supply minimum dietary diversity to households. Promoting small-scale irrigation schemes and strengthening nutrition-sensitive agricultural extension services could contribute to food and nutrition security.