Abstract

Dr. Nkirigacha-Miriti Evayline Muthoni*

ABSTRACT

Nutrition is a fundamental pillar of human life, health and development across the lifespan. A cross-sectional study was carried out among 260 of the lactating mothers living in Mwiki peri-urban Nairobi County. The population of mothers was enumerated, the sample was randomly selected. Using structured and pre-tested questionnaire information on socio-demographic, socio-economic characteristics, food security and food consumption frequency mothers. Data analyzed using SSP version 20. Results indicate majority had 36 – 40 years. Education, 44.6% primary, 16.8% secondary. Household size 6–12 average 6 persons. Meru and Luhya. Majority lower socio-economic category. Majority (42.3%) food insecure hunger, 20% food insecure moderate hunger 37.6% food secure. Majority (32.3%) reduced meals frequency, 30% manual jobs, 16.2% sold household assets, and 11.1% reduced meal size and 10.4% food aids. Significant correlation between number of meals and animal protein a co-efficient (0.002). The survey shows significant relationship between cereals, vegetables and fruits with number of meals per day correlation co-efficient (0.024 and 0.018). There was insignificant relationship between roots and tubers with a coefficient of 0.182. Positive and significant association between reduce frequency of meals and food sufficiency p=0.007; manual jobs, frequency of meals p=0.006; reduce meal size and frequency of food 0.004. Positive but insignificant relationship between food aid and sell assets p=0.442 and 0.496. Results from the focus group discussion showed lack of employment and lack of space to farm as major reasons for food insecurity in the area. Concluded that food security major concern and affected lactating mothers, infants.