Understanding the Aspiration of Small Scale Producers and Their Constraints Is the Key to Food Security in Africa: Example Form Ethiopia.

Small scale “subsistent” farming is the means of livelihood for the majority of populations in the Sub-Saharan Africa. However, multifaceted problems undermine the livelihood of such small holder farmers.  Efforts to address these problems often result in less than satisfactory and unexpected outcomes. This is largely due to limited understanding of the local context. Any effort to improve the livelihood of such producers and their communities should start with understanding of the existing systems including local resources, cultural values, needs, and aspirations. Some examples from Ethiopia illustrate that small holder farmers, empowered by appropriate interventions, can realize sustainable food security.